The trail runs along one of the Britain's oldest railways, built in 1834. When the track was lifted in 1985, Sustrans converted the path to recreational use and have since decorated the trail with many environmental sculptures. The train forms part of the C2C, a National Cycle Route that runs from the Cumbrian Coast to the North Sea.

The Route: Consett - Leadgate - Annfield Plain - Stanley - Chester-le-Street - Washington - Pallion - Sunderland (near the bus station).

Distance: 22 miles one way, 44 miles round trip.

Start & Parking: Hownes Gill car park (off the A692, south of Consett). Also at Consett, Annfield Plain, Stanley, Beamish, Chester-le-Street and James Steel Park, Washington.

Surface & Hills: Fine gravel and tarmac path. Fairly flat with the exception of the crossing of the River Wear at Washington.

Roads & Road Crossings: Several minor roads to cross. Short road sections near Washington and in Pallion, Sunderland.

Links or other nearby trails: At Hownes Gill Viaduct the trail links to the Waskerley Way, Lanchester Valley Walk and the Derwent Walk.

Map & Leaflet: OS Landranger Map 88.

Nearest Railway: Chester-le-Street, Sunderland.

Refreshments: Lots of choice either end. In the middle try to Shepherd and Shepherdess pub at Beamish village or the coffee shop in the Beamish Museum entrance hall.