We are the Chester-le-Street Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Sunderland Bridge Circular
This is a moderate 5.9 mile route, which is actually more of a “figure of eight” in shape, incorporating 2 small circulars, on each side of the River Wear.
We start from the old Sunderland Bridge (the bridge, not the village) and head along the north river bank, in a SW direction. This is a mainly flat and open path. After just over a mile, we turn NW up a short track and then E onto a bridleway that passes the Grade 2 listed Holywell Hall. After passing the lake and hall, our route reconnects with the Weardale Way, and we continue E, under the Croxdale Viaduct and back to the Sunderland Bridge. We cross the River Wear and head SW along the south river bank. On this side, we are in pleasant, shaded woodland and the track is muddy in a few places. After a short distance, we turn off to gently climb SE through Coldstream Wood and following the course of the Nickynack Beck. As the wood ends, we pass terraced houses on the west side of Croxdale and turn into Chair Lane. We follow this for a short distance and then turn N, to follow a track and bridleway, back into Coldstream Wood. We gently descend through woodland and rejoin the riverside path, to return to Sunderland Bridge.
Refreshments: after the walk, refreshments are available at the Honest Lawyer pub, Croxdale Bridge, DH1 3SP, which is less than half a mile from the end point of the walk. The 2 pictures attached show the lunchtime menu of sandwiches and light bites. Tea and coffee is available. * If you plan to visit the pub, please take a glance at the menu as I need to pre-order food at the start of the walk*
09.50 to meet and 10.00 to leave, at the Old Civic Centre car park, Chester le Street, DH3 3UA
10.30 at the old Sunderland Bridge. The nearest postcode is DH6 5JL and What3Words ///kept.ruling.represent There is parking available on both sides of the bridge but this is a popular location, so please carshare where possible. Directions from Chester le Street Follow A167 south until you pass the Honest Lawyer pub at Croxdale Bridge Immediately after the pub, turn R at the roundabout to B6300 (Browney Lane) After a few hundred yards, turn L towards the old Sunderland Bridge To get to Honest Lawyer pub afterwards Turn R onto B6300 Turn L onto A167 at roundabout Immediately, turn R into pub - car park is to the left
