Whorlton to Gainford
| 6th June 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section 7 of the Teesdale Way (Whorlton to Gainford) with particular regard to where it differs from what might be published elsewhere on this site or in our Teesdale Way Pocket Guide.
Local conditions and heavy use quickly degrade infrastructure – particularly timber – causing impromptu and possibly persisting access and/or navigation issues. The chances of the trail changing in some way – short and long-term – is even more likely in urban areas. If your experience is different to what we’ve published here, you can help by leaving your insights in the comments.
Whorlton Bridge
Whorlton Bridge has been closed to all users – including pedestrians – for repair and refurbishment since December 2020 and is not scheduled to open until possibly 2026 (Whorlton Bridge Refurbishment Update – Durham County Council). Although it’s not an issue when walking this section of the trail, it’s impossible to access the start of the section from the south side of the river. You’ll need to start (or continue) from Whorlton village on the north side. Alternative river crossings are at Winston Bridge, Abbey Bridge or Barnard Castle.
Conclusion
Other than the issues mentioned above, the route for this section of the Teesdale Way remains as published in the guide book. Teesdale Way way-marking is plentiful and well maintained although the route is even easier to follow with a GPS file from The Durham Cow. Infrastructure (stiles, gates, steps and bridges) is mostly in good repair (where it’s being used at all) but still requires care when using it.
Vegetation on the edge of arable fields continues to encroach heavily on the trail most of the way between Whorlton and Winston so leg-cover might be preferred (if it’s been raining or there’s heavy dew you’re likely to get very damp regardless). I wore quick-drying shorts for the review and was comfortable enough – bar the occasional nettle sting. A cliff-top section of the trail approaching Graft’s Farm (at around the one-mile mark) has been slipping away for a few years but remains stable enough to pass with care.
That’s it for Section 7. We hope this helps. If you have anything to add please feel free to do it in the comments. Happy Walking!
Gallery
View a comprehensive selection of images for Section 7 taken on the day(s) of the update in our Google Gallery.