We are the Darlington Dales and Hills Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
This is a circular 8 mile walk from South Park (leader.factories.glory on what3words) down to Croft and back, using the Teesdale Way on both sides of the river. The walk does contain a good bit of road walking, particularly at the start down to Stapleton and near Croft (apologies, but that's just the route of the Teesdale Way). It gets relatively high up views of an old pumping station and the Tees Valley heading down to Croft on a generally good - but probably quite muddy - track through fields. Approaching Croft we pass an old packhorse bridge and the grand Monk End Hall. We pass over the lovely large bridge at Croft, with a chance to pause on the green on the Hurworth Place side if it's ok weather. Then we head back via the Hell Kettles, Stressholme sewage treatment works (it generally doesn't smell bad!) and Blackwell golf club. It's quite a green and pleasant walk through fields and woods. We should finish by 3 or 3.30pm.
Meet at South Park. Bring lunch, waterproofs, warm clothes, and wear sturdy walking boots or shoes. I'm unsure if the cafe and toilets at South Park will be open when we return from the walk, but hope so! Failing that, we're not far from Darlington town centre.
As this walk starts not far from Darlington town centre (and train station), I will be walking there, so it's a rare one that can easily be done without a car. I believe the walk to be dog-friendly since it is mostly on a tracks - but there are stiles which they may need lifting over and there may be livestock so best to be kept on a lead at all times.
Meet just inside the gates of South Park - the part which is to the west of the river - to gather. There is (free) roadside parking on Parkside here - please park carefully and car share where possible.
