Allensford Country Park - Moorside - Hownsgill Viaduct - Rowley

Alan Anderson

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The upper reaches of the Derwent Valley on the northern border of County Durham is the location for this interesting panoramic walk. A good mix of fields, woods and a railway path is included in this pleasant ramble among rolling hills.

The walk starts from Allensford Country Park, a large open grassed area with several picnic tables that runs alongside the River Derwent. From here the route climbs out of the valley through fields and a residential area to pass under the well known local landmark of Hownsgill Viaduct before the walk intersects the Waskerley Way Railway Path. A long flat walk follows along the railway path with great panoramic views over the Derwent Valley. The route then briefly leaves the railway path for a little road walking before starting the long gradual descent down through fields and woods to return back to the river and the country park.

England - North England - Durham - Derwent Valley

Features

Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Food Shop, Great Views, Play Area, Pub, River, Tea Shop, Toilets, Waterfall, Wildlife, Woodland

04/03/2017 - Chris Russell

Following on from the previous comment, at point 2 there is no longer a gate on the left at the top of the incline. There is now a clear gap in the fence with a gravelled surface which makes it much easier to follow.

03/08/2014 - Simon Roffe

We did this walk today, a few comments: The road into Allensford via Consett is closed due to subsidence so we had to park about a mile down the road and walk to the start point, so make sure you arrive via the A68 as per the instructions. Point 2 on the guide has no footpath markers and the first two fences / gates have been sealed up so we had to do some climbing. After that inauspicious start however, it was a lovely walk and the waterfall near the end was especially delightful.