Wolsingham combines walking trails of varying lengths, the historic Weardale Railway and a distinct architectural and religious history. When planning, it is worth distinguishing between the reservoir loop, the longer village circular walk and the guided walks; train journeys and the Annual Show also have their own timetables and event dates.
Walking: Routes and Distances
Wolsingham is officially recognised as a “Walkers are Welcome” town. Wolsingham Parish has more than 80 miles of footpaths, including the long-distance Weardale Way. This parish-wide selection sits alongside individual named routes, whose lengths allow for a more specific comparison when planning a walk.
For the 2026 season, the Tunstall Circular Walk is a 2-mile loop around Tunstall Reservoir, north of Wolsingham. Check route conditions before setting out. The route from Wolsingham to Tunstall Reservoir runs at a higher elevation on both sides of the valley and reaches the wooded shores. The Wolsingham Circular Walk starts in the village, is 5.75 miles long and features moderate climbs and impressive views.
Guided walks in Wolsingham are circular routes of 5 to 10 miles. The 2026 calendar lists monthly dates from 10 January to 12 December; each starts at 10 am on the second Saturday of the month at Wolsingham Town Hall in the Market Place. No membership, booking or admission fee is required. As future dates may change, check the latest schedule before taking part. Compared with the 5.75-mile village circular walk, the guided walks range from slightly shorter to considerably longer; the 2-mile reservoir loop remains the shorter individual option.
Journeys on the Weardale Railway
The historic passenger railway, Weardale Railway, offers journeys with views of Weardale and makes it possible to visit the historic market towns of Wolsingham and Stanhope. On Purple Timetable days, the round trip between Stanhope and Wolsingham is about 12 miles. Operating days and services may change, so check the latest timetable before travelling.
Church and History
The Church of St Mary and St Stephen was rebuilt in 1848 by the architect W. Nicholson, from a building dating to the 12th and 13th centuries. A Norman west doorway, relocated there, is set into the north wall of the tower. The rebuilding and the doorway provide two specific points of reference for the church’s architectural history.
Another historical connection is to Godric: he underwent hermit training in Wolsingham under the guidance of Aelric, who was older and more experienced. “Hermit” refers to a religious way of life in seclusion, adding another perspective on local history alongside the architectural history.
The Annual Show in September
The Annual Show is organised by the Wolsingham Agricultural Society and takes place on the first weekend in September. As the date can vary from year to year, check the latest event calendar before making plans. The agricultural Saturday of the 2026 Wolsingham Show included a craft and food market featuring regional produce.
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For the main travel overview: Durham.
