19 of us travelled by bus from Howlands Park and Ride to Elvet Bridge, starting the walk from here. For me it evoked many memories of my time in Durham University especially during exam time when I used to run off the exam stress on sunny summer term evenings. It was a very warm day, 23C, and the route was popular with dog walkers, student runners and tourists. We went via the Cathedral Precinct and down past Prebends Bridge, on the river path, eventually turning off through Houghall Woods. The bluebell display was at its best, and it was lovely walking through freshly greening woodland and listening to the birdsong, when not chatting with our friends.

We walked past Houghall Farm  (the university agricultural college), and up the hill to the road at the back of the Agricultural college, then through woodland paths that were much easier to walk on than normal due to them having dried out in the long drought, eventually reaching South Road for a short walk back to Howlands Park and Ride.

All in all, a very beautiful and enjoyable walk with plenty of varied interest.

Author - Richard E