Best walks from Shildon

Shildon Station to Darlington Station

lots of lovely nature and panoramic views. A long route mixing town road-walking with field paths and farm tracks across open country, with panoramic views and lots of nature. Many field paths are poorly maintained, lost or heavily overgrown with nettles and brambles and very wet and muddy after rain. Passes under the A1 near Darlington; there is an ice cream shop at Walworth a short detour off-route.

20km. Moderate ascents.

Many field paths are overgrown, lost or blocked and need hacking through nettles; some require detours around farms. Parts cross or run beside the busy A6072 and A1, and the A1 underpass can flood. Tough going for adults and impractical with wheels away from the towns. Can be muddy.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Bishop Auckland Station to Shildon Station

A varied, enjoyable walk through fields and suburbs using riverside paths and alleys, in a semi-urban, post-industrial environment. A good balance of well-made paths and lanes, but with flights of steps, beaten paths, some steep and almost-scrambling ascents and descents over the river; a few neglected paths at the Bishop Auckland end. Cafes and shops at either end, plus a pub and shop in South Church.

Tough: steep ascents. 5km.

A very steep, almost scrambling climb up an embankment leads to a steep flight of steps over a railway level crossing; take care crossing the track.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route