This walk tracks a circular route around Ryton, so you can start at any point along the route – look out for route markers as our volunteers are now actively mapping our flagship walk with signs. This work will start with signage around Stargate and Grange estates to clearly mark safe entry points to public rights of way and the off-road route, before being extended to waypoints along the main route.
Check back frequently as we are working on expanding our History section to document historical locations around Ryton to compliment this walking route. Now, onto the walk itself…
We are using Ryton Village Green, on Barmoor Lane in the Old Village, as our starting point. There are many historical points of interest at this location, so you may choose to explore the area before starting the walk by heading east along Barmoor Lane towards the Half Moon Inn.
As you walk along you will be able to see the Edwardian architecture that still exists on Barmoor Lane above the shops.
Continue passed the Half Moon Inn, onto Holborn Lane all the way to The Runhead where Holborn Lane meets Main Road – which connects Ryton and Crawcrook villages.
Use the pedestrian crossing to cross Main Road and continue the walk up Runhead Terrace, onto Stargate Lane all the way up to the roundabout at Cushy Cow Lane.
As you walk up Stargate Lane you will pass The Aged Miners Homes, Stargate Memorial, Stargate Hall, Playground and Playing Fields; and finally Stargate Pit Memorial.
Continue along Cushy Cow Lane, as the road bends into a right turn you may take a diversion onto public footpaths which cross the greenbelt and the area where old mines were situated. Our volunteers have clearly marked this alternative route with our trail markers to keep you heading in the correct direction where you will exit onto Western Way (see below).
For those staying on the paved route, continue along Cushy Cow Lane to the point where this road meets Hexham Old Road.
At this location you will find a Commonwealth War Graves location. Take a left turn onto Western Way, and follow this road to the junction with Woodside Lane. For those who took the off road scenic route, you will rejoin the main walk at this point.
Use the pedestrian crossing to cross Woodside Lane and continue down Dilly Lane (note that Dilly Lane does not appear on the map, but is clearly visible here directly opposite Woodside Lane) which will take you passed Ryton Cricket Club, and Ryton Rugby Club to Barmoor.
At Barmoor, you will find many points of interest including Emma Pit Wheel, miners memorial and the Barmoor Hub.
When you have finished exploring this area, continue in an easterly direction along Main Road before turning left back onto Barmoor Lane and following this road back down to the Old Village Green.
Along Barmoor Lane you will pass two old wells with ornate stonework and the pinfold, before finally arriving back at the village green to complete the walk!