We are the Chester-le-Street Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
An easy 8.8 mile walk. Leaving from Cockfield we cross the Fell and walk along the river Gaunless towards Butterknowle and Copley before returning back to the start point.
We depart from the village centre and head down towards the river. We immediately see views of the now derelict Gaunless Viaduct. On the opposite side of the river the abundance of heather is just starting to bloom giving the Fell Area a very colourful purplish outlook. Heading west we continue along a mixture of Public Rights of Way, zig zagging through fields of sheep and pretty countryside. We eventually reach Copley Wood where the remains of the Copley Smelt Chimney still exists. We now head east, again through multiple fields of sheep and reach the back area of Raby Castle. After a good 15 minute walk towards Burnthouses we take the PROW again and return to our start point.
Please note: Whilst there is an abundance of farm livestock en route, we are separated most of the way (with the exception of the sheep) by fencing etc .
Dave Marshall is again offering the option of a shorter walk of around 5 miles.
09.50am to meet and 10.00am to leave, at the Old Civic Centre car park, Chester le Street, DH3 3UA
Village Centre Cockfield DL13 5ED. What3Words: swipes.radio.otter Please park responsibly in the village. There are ample spaces. Please also be aware that a Parish Fine of £200 can be imposed on anyone parking on the village green areas. Directions to the Start Point: Take the A167 from CLS and head towards Durham. Continue to Thinford and take the A688 towards Bishop Aukland. Continue along the A688 and turn right just after Evenwoodgate - Esperley Lane. Cockfield is sign posted here.
