We are the Chester-le-Street Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Heighington
The walk starts near the centre of the very pretty village of Heighington. Leaving the car park we head through the village and turn in a westerly direction until we reach the Public Right of Way (PROW) which in turn will lead us into the open countryside. Keeping to the footpath and over a couple of stiles we reach Park House Lane which is a mainly used by farm traffic. We then head north to Primrose Farm area and then onto Newbiggin Farm. As we approach there is an abundance of daffodils along the lane verges in full bloom. Continuing north we then enter a wooded area (quite muddy) where we shall have a spot of lunch at the perimeter of the wood which provides us some fine views of Bishop Auckland in the distance. Heading further through various woods we then turn eastwards along a hardstanding country lane passing through the garden area of someone's house! A gradual climb with plenty of sheep to keep us company along with seemingly millions of rabbits. We then proceed towards the fishing lake near to Red House. There is a fox in this area spotted by both myself and the local fisherman. Heading east again we cross over a very narrow and shallow stream - which we have no option but to tread through - no excuse for dirty boots when we get back. We then return to Heighington along a mixture of country lanes and open fields.
The course in various places is heavy going due to sporadic mud stretches and overall there is an abundance of stiles. Hopefully the route will dry out before the weekend. Due to the heavy going and some slow uphill inclines I have deliberately shortened the route by about a mile.
For those who wish to stay on, there are two delightful pubs in the village.
Difficulty: Moderate. Distance 8 miles circular. There will also be a shorter route of approx 4.5miles
9.50am for 10.00am at the old Civic Centre car park, Chester le Street, DH3 3UA.
1040hrs Drive south down the A1M until junction 58 and take the A68 towards Bishop Auckland. (Note Junction 59 is closed). At the second roundabout continue to head towards Bishop Auckland on the A6072 and after a mile or so turn left at the Heighington turn off. This road leads straight into the village. Continue on the road as if leaving the village, and on leaving, the car park is on the right side of Redworth Road. Postcode DL5 6PR, what3words: useful.suggested.steeped
