Auckland Way Railway Path (Walking and Cycling Route)

About

A 4.3 mile route between Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor on a former railway line passing New Coundon and Binchester.

The Railway Path passes through countryside which was once part of the Bishop’s Park. Remnants of its railway history can be seen along the route. Look for the very wide railway bridge with mature trees on it. Bishop Lightfoot hated the railway and would only give his consent for the use of his land if a special ‘double’ bridge was built over the railway for his personal use. The bridge is twice the normal width and had trees planted along each side to screen the Bishop from the detested railway. It is now known as the Bishops Bridge and is unique in the Durham area and possibly the country.

The scrub and hedgerow which line the route are ideal feeding and nesting places for birds. To the west there are extensive views across the Wear Valley towards the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The route passes near Binchester Roman Fort and Auckland Park.

The route is suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and wheelchair users. Please follow the Railway Paths Visitor Charter so everyone can enjoy this route together.

Route supplied by Durham County Council’s Countryside Service.