This is the first of two walks to explore what survives of the Haggerleases branch line opened in 1830 and whether any heritage features found require conservation. We will photograph any features found and provide an accurate grid reference and make management recommendations. We will also look at the current state of the access and interpretation and whether it needs improving. The walk will be a return trip so that we can view the remains from both directions – it is often easy to miss hidden features amongst vegetation and this helps to spot them.

We will walk from the former site of West Auckland Colliery heading west passed Spring Gardens, Craggwood, Evenwood and to Lands. Then we will turn back towards West Auckland. The total mileage will be about 6.6 miles over relatively level but sometimes muddy terrain. The main piece of rough ground is in Craggwood if we walk through the woods north of the caravan park.

If you would like to join us on this walk, please email Caroline at caroline@aenvironment.co.uk and say which walk you’d like to join (or both). I will send you joining instructions/directions and screen shots of historic maps and some background information.

Please also provide your mobile phone number (in case we need to contact each other in the morning due to alterations in the programme and an ICE (in Case of Emergency) contact should you find that the excitement has all been too much for you. I will give you my mobile phone number in case you need to contact me on the morning of the walk. Please note, I have given no finishing time for these walks as it will take as long as it takes to find the features of interest and record them. I’d certainly bring snacks and a water bottle.