Attractive tree-lined route with fine views over the wear valley towards the hills of the North Pennines.

The route: Bishop Auckland to Spennymoor.

Distance: 4 miles one way, 8 miles both.

Start & Parking: Princess Street, Spennymoor. Exit the roundabout at the top of Spennymoor High Street onto Clyde Terrace ('Whitworth Hall') then turn right into Princess Street. There is also a car park on Whitworth Road.

Surface & Hills: Stone path, rough in places. Mountain bikes recommended. Gentle gradients.

Roads & Road crossings: Two minor roads to cross. Busier roads from the south end of the trail into Bishop Auckland.

Links or other nearby trails: The Brandon to Bishop Auckland Walk starts from the north of Bishop Auckland.

Map & Leaflet: OS Landranger Map 93. a fine set of laminated route cards covering 7 railway paths in County Durham can be purchased from The Countryside Group, Environment & Technical Services Dept, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham, DH1 5UQ. Tel:

Nearest Railway: Bishop Auckland.

Refreshments: Lots of choice in Bishop Auckland.