Durham Dales

Sports

Golf
On the hillside above the town, Crook Golf Course is an excellent setting for a round of golf in a picturesque and inspiring environment, whilst the mature Bishop Auckland Golf Course is one of the finest examples of parkland golf courses in Northern England. Always in excellent condition both of these courses offer a challenge to golfers of all abilities and standards. Eleven Arches Driving Range takes in views of the Bishop Auckland viaduct and River Wear. Nearby, there are also a number of other superb and challenging courses to experience and enjoy.

Horse Riding
Throughout the Dales, there are licensed riding centres enabling visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the area on horseback and sample the wonders and delights of the imposing countryside. Many of these centres offer horse-riding lessons suitable for everyone from the novice to the expert. For the more experienced rider, some of the centres also offer the opportunity to go trekking or hacking.

Fishing
Wherever you go in the area you’ll never be far from water, be it moving water in the form of the River Wear or one of
it’s tributaries or the peaceful and tranquil waters of Tunstall, Derwent or Burnhope Reservoirs. Many of these waters are teaming with a variety of fish, including trout and salmon, providing for exciting fishing amidst spectacular scenery. They are a haven for anglers wishing to indulge in a spot of fishing to unwind and visitors can obtain permits from some of the angling clubs to allow them to fish in the Wear Valley waters.

Skiing
For a short period of time during the Winter months, the uplands of Weardale are often covered in snow providing the ideal opportunity to participate in winter sports. Fendrith Hill high above Westgate is the perfect location to try a spot of skiing or snowboarding in an unusual location.