Clockburn Lonnen - Introduction

This cycle route links NCN 14 / Derwent Walk to the Tanfield Railway Path via an ancient pack horse path - it is very steep and rocky in places due to the cobbled surface.

Clockburn Lonnen
Although it is difficult to imagine now, Clockburn Lonnen was once the main highway from the north to Durham. It crossed the River Tyne at Newburn then passed to Winlaton via Blaydon Burn and from there to old Winlaton Mill, crossing the Derwent and following Clockburn Lonnen to Durham. Cromwell's army of 16,000 men passed this way on the 15th July 1650 on their way to the Battle of Dunbar.

The Butterfly Bridge and Winlaton Mill
The Butterfly Bridge was originally built in 1842 by John English. Lang Jack, as he was known, stood 6 feet 4 inches and worked as a stonemason on the old Scotswood Bridge before he built the Butterfly Bridge.

The new bridge was built in 1950. Near the bridge are the remains of George Eavan's house, the miller of the flour mill. This ruin is all that remains of what was once a picturesque village - old Winlaton Mill.
The old village was very attractive with white-washed cottages and a stream running through the centre.
Winlaton Mill was founded by Saxon families who chose to settle there after the Romans left the area.

 

For detailed guide notes select signs below

	NCN 14 Derwent Walk to Tanfield Railway Path
	Tanfield Railway Path to NCN 14 Derwent Walk