Cornsay Colliery

Cornsay Colliery  

A moderate 7. 6 mile walk commencing at Steely Hill Nature Reserve, Cornsay Colliery where we will head east and into the reserve. After a short distance through the woods we turn south and immediately head uphill through a field of sheep towards Bell Ho Farm. Heading North we then enter the Hedley Hill Nature reserve. The narrow path through the reserve twists and turns and we need to cross the narrow stream three times. First crossing; there are stepping stones but the other two crossing points entails putting boots in the water! At the time of the recce the water just levelled my boot toe caps. This part of the route may change slightly depending on future rainfall where an alternative road route for 400/500 meters will be used. On reaching the very small parking area we continue along the PROW twisting and turning and crossing many platform bridges and through dead but rather colourful autumnal ferns. Heading towards South Shields Farm we then turn east and through a field full of inquisitive cattle. We can outwit this field by a very short detour but this entails climbing over an easy gate. (Recommended by the farmer I spoke to). Heading towards Stowe House farm we shall stop for a spot of lunch. Taking another PROW we then go towards Cornsay where there is also livestock in the well spread out roughage. The views from here of the Durham Countryside are superb. At cornsay we pass through more fields of sheep and some rather posh houses before heading south and back to the start point.

Please Note: I have deliberately kept this route within the seven mile range as at places the underfoot can be heavy. At the time of the recce the ground was frozen solid with many indentations from livestock hooves. Given the big thaw together with lots of rain these areas could prove to be very muddy. Suggest all to wear gaiters. Due to the high numbers of livestock dogs unfortunately cannot be allowed. Dave Marshall has kindly agreed to lead a five mile route.