The previous two days had been wet and cool and so it was a relief, as we gathered on Durham City riverside, that it felt slightly warmer with only a light cloud covering overhead. We headed up the quaint cobbled street of Sidegate, at the top, by the side of the main road, is the reconstructed Ancient Fram Well Head. From 1450 the well head conveyed water to the pant in the Market Place. No doubt a much appreciated innovation in its day.

We then continued upwards to a much more recent landmark but one that gives a nod to an historic method of communication. In 2022 a beacon was raised at the top of the appropriately named Beacon Hill in memory of Queen Elizabeth II. The beacon was created by artistic blacksmith Brian Russell at Teesdale Forge. It’s definitely worth the climb to see the view and his handiwork. There are a couple of welcome seats at the top.

Skirting around the former DLI museum we headed toward Aykley Wood. The majority of the wood was planted in the years following 2005 alongside ancient woodland, it is very pleasant with numerous paths and at this time of year lined with wild flowers. We left the wood by crossing a bridge over the main railway line and headed to Frankland Lane picking up the track that leads to Brasside Ponds.

The ponds are a Special Site of Scientific Interest and have formed naturally as a result of the flooding of clay pit workings in the early 1900’s. Brasside Ponds are the largest expanse of upolluted open water, reservoirs excepted, in County Durham. This hidden gem is the most important breeding site for wildfowl in the County.

We were lucky to have a peaceful calm day where we could enjoy lunch and just be immersed in the activity on the water. It was also possible to observe a group of nesting cormorants flying back and forth to the water for their no doubt equally enjoyable lunch!

We then continued on our way via the Low Newton Nature Reserve which follows the former railway line that took passengers from Durham, over the Belmont Viaduct to Sunderland.

Linking up again with Frankland Lane we soon found our way back at Durham riverside and as we reached the bus stop to return to the Park and Ride, yes you guessed it, rain began to fall. For once, perfect timing!

Jeff S