9 mile moderate walk. Mostly easy paths but a few muddy sections on route.
Starting from the free carpark the route takes us along the old Tanfield Railway Path towards Black Burn Fell. A mixture of woodlands and fields lead to Sunniside where we will make our way through Lottie's Wood (named after a local dairymaid). After a stroll along Whickham High Street we will stop for lunch in Chase Park. This park was originally a privately owned estate dating back to 1714 where the remains of a grade 2 listed windmill can be seen. From here we will head back to Watergate Forest Park which was originally the site of Watergate Colliery which operated from 1924 -1964.
Refreshments and toilet facilities are available at the end of the walk at Watergate Cafe.