Ebchester Station & Medomsley
This is a moderate circular route of approximately 5 - 5.5 miles. We set out in a NE direction on the Derwent Walk, through a pleasant woodland section, with lovely views to the north. The path then turns S, up a fairly steep hill, past High Westwood and up to the northern edge of Medomsley village. There are a number of stiles throughout this route. We cross the main road in Medomsley and continue in a southerly direction towards Low Bradley. We then turn around to pick up a NW path, over bridleway and fields, back to Medomsley. There are some overgrown stretches and the terrain is uneven in places. On reaching Medomsley, we cross the main road again and return on a different NW path: we continue down the hill, to rejoin the Derwent Walk, a short distance from the Start Point.
Please note that we will encounter a variety of livestock on this route - sheep, cattle and horses: they all appeared to be either placid or friendly but I am advising that walkers do not bring dogs on this walk.
There will be a cafe option at the end of the walk, but - owing to the late change in schedule - I will give info about where this is, at the start of the walk.
Directions from Chester le Street:-
Follow A693 to where it meets A692, just SW of Dipton; turn L onto A692; at the next roundabout, take 4th exit onto Pont Lane for Medomsley; follow this road to T junction with B6308; turn L and after a few hundred yards, turn R onto B6309; continue down Ebchester bank, past Medomsley Edge crossroads and look out for Derwent Walk Inn on your R: immediately after this, there is a brown sign for Ebchester Station, which is also on your right.