Walk 2815 - printer friendly version

Pennypie and Blanchland from Baybridge Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 3.8 miles / 6.1 km

Ascent - 650 feet / 197 metres

Grade - easy/mod

Start - OS grid reference NY957499
Lat 54.843893 + Long -2.0684848
Postcode DH8 9UB (approx. location only)

This walk starts in the Derwent Valley and climbs onto the fringes of the moors before dropping down into the valley at the picturesque village of Blanchland. There is ample opportunity to explore the village before return along the River Derwent back to the start.

The start is the car park and picnic area alongside the River Derwent at Baybridge (Grid ref. NY957499). After parking, exit onto the road and turn left. Turn left again into the lane that runs in front of the cottages and begin the steady climb out of the valley onto the moor. The lane is quite steep in places and with excellent views up valley you have ample excuses to stop and admire the view. Passing the access road to Birkside Farm on your left the climb is nearly over. Reaching a bridleway sign (Grid ref. NY951508), continue straight ahead across the moor to reach the track in front of Pennypie House (Grid ref. NY949517).

Turn sharp right here and follow the lane through the hamlet of Shildon and down the small side valley into Blanchland. This village is picturesque, historic and unusual with many of its stone buildings around the perimeter of a large cobbled square. Blanchland Stores and the old post office are two buildings of note and with two places offering refreshments there is ample excuse to stay awhile and explore.

To continue, walk south through the main square and follow the road south to cross the River Derwent into County Durham. Just over the bridge turn right onto the signed footpath. This path leads through pleasant woodland offering views to the river and beyond. After approximately one kilometre the path reaches a road. Turn right here, cross the river again and the car park is on your left.

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