Durham loop - Half Marathon Route

Check out the route on Strava...
- https://www.strava.com/routes/24969820

Right, I live in Durham so I am biased, but Durham City Centre is one of the best places to run in the world. This route below is a mix of stuff that is off the hidden track, but also some of the classic paths along the River Wear. Start north of Durham at the Arnison Centre shopping centre - park DH1 5GD. Take the route to the picturesque high security Frankland Prison, take a left, and then you are on some lovely quiet country roads that wind their way down to Finchale Priory. On the way to the Priory, look left to see 30-40 deserted World War II bunkers. Cross the bride at the Priory and make your way along the narrow path alongside the Wear. Follow the Strava route on your phone and it'll then wind you up through the woods, over the A1 and out at West Rainton. At Pittington it's back on trails again, all of the way back down to the River Wear. Then follow the Wear around Durham City taking in the Castle and Cathedral. Then back up the hill, through one more nature reserve until your done.
Finchale Priory
Cathedral pictured from Durham Racecourse
Cathedral from River Wear path
Strava Segment of note:
- Prebends Bridge to Penny Ferry Bridge - Flat, fast, km along the River Wear. You are going to have to do around 3:30/km pace to get in the top ten though!

Useful links:
Series:
For a list of different half marathon routes around the North East of England see:

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