Trail South Park To Croft Loop 11km

This 2nd section starts in Darlington town centre and follows the route out of town up North Road past the historic Skerne Bridge and Stockton and Darlington Railway development at Hopetown to the village of Coatham Mundeville. Look out for evidence of the history of this railway town during the walk.

A walk suitable for all ages, good well preserved footpaths, nature reserve, museum on the route, watching trout jump the weir on the river Tess, good opportunities for pub food and cafe snacks.

Starting in the pretty village of Croft-on-Tees, the first section of the walk follows the route of the Great North Road through countryside and into the heart of Darlington, once a busy market town with many street names indicating the history of the town ending at the impressive clock tower above the market hall.

The Great North Road ran from London in the south to Edinburgh in the north. This was once a coaching route, but in later years this has been replaced by the A1 which sadly bypasses many of the pretty villages and towns along the route. This trail traces the route from Croft-on-Tees in the south on the border of North Yorkshire and County Durham to Newcastle-upon-Tyne. There are still remnants of that bygone age to be seen on this historical journey.

A diverse walk crossing open fields, following burbling brooks and a beautiful section of the river Tees incorporating part of the Teesdale way.

This 3rd section of the Along the Great North Road passes a number of inns both new and old along the route and takes in the pretty Aycliffe Village. The rest of the route follows the A167 but the path is surrounded by trees for most of the route and is therefore shaded in summer months.

The 4th section of the Along the Great North Road walk joins two former coaching inns and roughly follows the modern day A167 through countryside, diverting into the former mining communities of Ferryhill and Chilton. Along the way is evidence of the old coaching route if you look out for it.

A short circular walk along the banks of the River Swale with the chance to explore Easby Abbey, Richmond Castle and the lovely market town of Richmond.
Lots to see and do and you can make a short walk into a full day out. Great Ice cream parlour in the Old Railway Station for the return leg.
About 2 hours for the actual walking but longer if you are exploring.