We set off from The Gala Theatre in Durham, weather cool and overcast down to the riverside path to the rear of Old Elvet.By the time we reached the bandstand coats were being loosened as it seemed to be much milder. We could not use the Pelaw Woods path as it is still being reinstated after the 2015 landslip. Continuing on the path below Maiden Castle we entered the woods (no vicar to be seen) which has some magnificent trees.

Question asked should we take the slightly longer route via the steps or proceed up the shorter route up the incline?Mention of coffee etc. at the Botanic Gardens quickly decide the outcome,up the incline we went a bit muddy at the top but not a great problem.A bit out of breath and hearts pumping we had our refreshments.

Rejuvenated we continued onwards skirting the top of the woods goods view of Durham Cathedral. We also spotted some of George Fairweather’s direction arrows from last year’s walk. Then down onto Stockton road past the University Palatine Centre and Bill Bryson Library onto Church street crossing over the award winning Kingsgate Bridge onto the North Bailey more people here, then Saddler Street and finish at the Market Place.

An enjoyable walk, good company, decent weather.

RF