We are the Ponteland Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Graham S.
Causey Arch and the Tanfield Railway to Home Farm Beamish via Carrickshill Wood and Beamish Park and back via Coppy Lane and Ridley Hill.
The walk will be undulating, mainly on well-marked woodland and field paths (some stretches narrow with high vegetation either side, requiring single file walking) and a number of stepped sections. There will also be some road walking and we will have to cross three busy roads. Numerous stiles, but all are in good condition. At the time of the pre-walk in mid August, conditions were dry underfoot and there were no livestock issues. Grade: Moderate.
Refreshments: There will be a lunch/refreshment stop en-route. for those who feel this is too early for lunch, there are picnic tables and an excellent cafe (open until 14.30) at the car park at the end of the walk.
Start point/parking: 10.30 in the free car park at Causey Arch Picnic Area (Grid ref. NZ205561; postcode NE16 5EJ). Directions to start point: A1 southwards, taking the turnoff signed Whickham and Swalwell. In the centre of Whickham, turn right onto the B6316 (NB 20mph speed limit) to Sunniside. At the traffic light junction, turn right onto the A692, then at the next traffic lights, turn left onto the A6076. After a few miles, Causey Arch picnic area is signed on the right. Follow through to the main car park, where the walk will start.
