Darlington to Hurworth-on-Tees
| 31st May 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section [xx] of the Teesdale Way (Darlington to Hurworth-on-Tees) 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.
Oxneyfield (Temporary Livestock Diversion)
At the time of our review there was a local diversion approaching the farm at Oxen-le-Fields (Oxneyfields) due to cattle with calves. Friendly instructions are on the gate into the first large field after the wood (assuming you’re walking in the same direction). On the right, part-way down the field, is a small gate (helpfully marked with a blue flag) in the hedge. Through the gate, turn left and follow the footpath along the edge of the field to another gate (somewhat obscured by vegetation) which leads directly onto the A167. Turn left and continue as normal.
Hurworth-on-Tees
About 400 m from the section finish in Hurworth-on-Tees, the Teesdale Way is signed as leaving Blind Lane to the right, across fields (full of inquisitive cattle at the time of our review) to a maturely TW way-marked footpath leading to a lane onto Hurworth village green. I’m not sure whether this is now the prescribed route or simply presented as an alternative – or whether it’s always been there and I haven’t noticed. Either way, it misses out the George V fountain finish (along with a handy convenience store). If you’re not bothered about either, then it’s quite a nice option given that it offers a brief respite from tarmac and takes you directly past an interesting house which the inscription on the lintel dates to 1450.
Conclusion
Other than those issues mentioned above, the route for this section of the Teesdale Way remains as published in the guide book, having been improved if anything. With the exception of the busy roundabout crossing at Blands Corner, Darlington there’s plenty of Teesdale Way way-marking (the route is even easier to follow with a GPS file from The Durham Cow). Infrastructure (stiles, gates, steps and bridges) is all in good repair (where it’s being used at all) but still requires care when using it. Vegetation was generally well controlled though parts of the trail through arable fields will depend on the crop.
That’s it for Section 9. 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 9 taken on the day(s) of the update in our Google Gallery.