7 Scenic Walks Around West Park and Darlington to Enjoy This Summer
- Will Hambleton
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
Life at West Park means easy access to nature, green space and countryside — all without sacrificing town life. Whether you’re popping out for a short stroll or planning a weekend ramble, Darlington has a brilliant variety of walking routes. Here’s our curated list of 7 scenic walks in and around West Park, with starting points, highlights, and places to explore nearby.
1. West Park Nature Reserve
📍 Start point: Otterston Grove or West Park Drive (right next to the West Park development)
West Park’s very own nature reserve is a real highlight of the neighbourhood. With wildflower meadows, a pond, and a sculpture trail integrated into the landscape, this is a favourite for morning dog walks or peaceful after-work strolls. The paths are mostly flat and accessible, with benches dotted throughout. You’ll also find poetry engraved in the paving, adding a creative twist to your surroundings.
Places of interest nearby:
– West Park Café (ideal for post-walk coffee)
– Bussey & Armstrong sales office
– West Park play area
2. The Denes, Darlington
📍 Start point: Garden Street or Pierremont Road
A chain of seven green spaces running through Darlington’s west end, The Denes offer a relaxed and leafy walking route. It’s perfect for prams or little legs and is rarely busy. The path meanders past lawns, mature trees, small streams and play areas — making it great for families or relaxed weekend outings.
Places of interest nearby:
– North Lodge Park
– Denes Deli (grab a coffee or sandwich en route)
– Nearby independent shops along Woodland Road
3. Broken Scar & River Tees Walk
📍 Start point: Broken Scar Picnic Area, Coniscliffe Road
This tranquil riverside walk begins just west of the town centre and follows the River Tees. The route is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it a brilliant spot for gentle walking or running. Look out for herons, kingfishers, and even the occasional otter. The path can be followed for several miles if you’re feeling energetic.
Places of interest nearby:
– Broken Scar Pumping Station (historic site)
– River Tees viewpoints
– Option to continue to Croft-on-Tees for a longer route
4. Baydale Beck Woodland Trail
📍 Start point: Baydale Road near Mowden
Tucked away just off Baydale Road, this is a quiet, shaded route through woodland — perfect on warm summer days. The footpaths follow Baydale Beck as it weaves through trees and low undergrowth. It’s especially good for dog walkers or those looking for a peaceful escape without leaving town.
Places of interest nearby:
– Mowden shops for a drink or snack
– Butterfly spotting in spring/summer
– Nearby link paths toward Staindrop Road
5. South Park & River Skerne Loop
📍 Start point: Main entrance on Parkside, DL1 5TG
Darlington’s oldest park, South Park is a Victorian green space with something for everyone. It has formal gardens, play areas, a café, and a popular skatepark — but if you head out along the River Skerne, you’ll find a peaceful walking loop on quieter trails. Great for walking with children, meeting friends, or a sunny day out.
Places of interest nearby:
– Park café and aviary
– Bandstand and rose gardens
– Skerne riverside wildlife
6. High Coniscliffe Circular Walk
📍 Start point: High Coniscliffe Village Green, DL2 2LL
Just a 10-minute drive from West Park, this circular countryside walk begins and ends at High Coniscliffe village green. Follow the footpaths through rolling farmland, old hedgerows, and gentle elevation changes. You’ll be rewarded with open views and a rural feel without going too far afield.
Places of interest nearby:
– The Blue Bell Inn (dog-friendly with outdoor seating)
– St Edwin’s Church (historic Norman structure)
– Classic English village scenery
7. Hamsterley Forest
📍 Start point: Forest Drive entrance, DL13 3NL
If you fancy venturing further out, Hamsterley Forest is well worth the 30–35 minute drive. This vast forest spans over 2,000 hectares and offers everything from short strolls to full-day hikes. There are play areas for children, woodland sculptures, and waymarked routes ranging from 1 to 6 miles.
Places of interest nearby:
– The Gruffalo Trail (brilliant for families)
– Bike hire & mountain biking centre
– Riverside picnic areas and tearoom
Green Living, Built In
From doorstep strolls to rural weekend escapes, life at West Park puts all this on your map. Bussey & Armstrong homes are designed with nature in mind — and when you step outside, Darlington’s green spaces are waiting for you.
👉 Visit our West Park sales office (Thursdays 10am–6pm, Fri–Mon 11am–5pm) or get in touch here to find your next walkable home.
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