Wharnley Burn Waterfall

The water drops hard here, tumbling down dark stone in a proper cascade that catches the light when the sun's on it. Wharnley Burn Waterfall sits just outside Consett, tucked into a corner of County Durham that doesn't shout about itself - which is partly why it's worth the trip.

It's a short walk to reach it, nothing strenuous, and you're rewarded with a genuine waterfall rather than a trickle. The surrounding woodland gives you decent shelter if the weather turns, and there's something quite meditative about standing in front of moving water on a grey Northeast afternoon. Best after heavy rain, when the burn's got proper volume - visit in a dry spell and you'll wonder what the fuss is about.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's not a destination in itself, but it makes a cracking addition to a longer ramble through the area. Families with younger kids might manage it, though the paths can be muddy and uneven depending on the season. Photographers will find decent angles, especially if you're patient with the light.

There's no admission charge that we're aware of, and you won't need more than an hour here unless you're making it part of a bigger walk. If you're staying at any of the nearby parks - Allensford is barely half a mile away, or Hidden Retreat Glamping if you're after something a bit different - it's worth fitting in. Consett itself is close enough for supplies, and the surrounding countryside offers plenty more to explore on foot.