Gainford to Darlington
| 6th June 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section 8 of the Teesdale Way (Gainford to Darlington) 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.
Gainford Hospitality Outlets
While Gainford retains The Cross Keys pub, it’s lost its cafe adjacent to Gainford Academy (Stan Laurel was an ex-pupil). For a village the size of Gainford, I’m surprised it still hasn’t more to offer.
The George, Piercebridge
It’s great to see The George open for business again given the former coaching inn’s fascinating history – including its ‘Grandfather Clock’ of nursery rhyme fame – and its proximity to the Roman bridge. It restores the number of welcoming hospitality outlets that the village offers – complementing The Fox Hole pub and Piercebridge Farm Shop and Cafe.
Ulnaby Beck Detour
This is a fairly mature detour but I thought it was worth mentioning for posterity. Immediately after crossing the footbridge over the Ulnaby Beck (near Merrybent), the trail diverts briefly away from the river following TW-specific way-marking. This order was made in 2019, originally for 6 months, so I’m assuming it’s permanent (it’s certainly marked on OS maps as such). I’ve altered the GPS file accordingly but, if you’re using the file for the old trail, the way-marking makes it fairly easy to navigate.
Conclusion
Other than the issues mentioned above, the route for this section of the Teesdale Way remains as published in the guide book (the trail having improved if anything). Teesdale Way way-marking is plentiful and well maintained with the route being even easier to follow using a GPS file from The Durham Cow. Infrastructure (gates, steps and bridges) is all in good repair but still requires care when using it. Vegetation has grown somewhat in places, occasionally altering the character of the trail but almost always for the better. It’s generally well controlled though and doesn’t encroach too much.
That’s it for Section 8. 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 8 taken on the day(s) of the update in our Google Gallery.