Stockton Central John Walker's Walk, family walk instructions

Family walk - dedicated to Mary Butterwick

The walk begins at the shops in Hardwick. There is plenty of street parking and bus stops with a regular service to and from other parts of Stockton.

On High Newham Road with the shops behind you, turn right and make your way across the road towards the basketball / play area in the field opposite. Turn left following the path along and you will start to head into a more countrified area. You will come across a small path on the right leading you to a pond area. This is easily crossed via stepping stones and you will head into a wooded area.

At the entrance to the wood you will see the first of a small number of artworks created by young people in the 1990's. The first features the names of local children - I wonder where they are now! Follow the 'pipe' along and you will see a couple of sculptures that were designed by the young people.

If you have time, turn left and follow the path upwards through the woods - taking in the wildlife, small footbridges and steps. After around 5 - 10 minutes the steps will lead you to Darlington Back Lane, another entrance to the Dene and a sign explaining its wildlife and importance to the area.

Turn around and head back the way you came, back to the sculptures - because - unless you were very observant you won't have spotted our John Walker metal tin. If you have the 'What3Words' app search for 'novel.supply.target'. If not, here is a clue - 'Slow and Steady Wins the Race...'

If you find the tin, make sure you log your name and the date you found it. Read the poem and perhaps - inspired by the walk, think of ways you could contribute. Light up the world - your style!

Follow the path in the other direction and enjoy the woodland, the 20 species of butterflies and the peace and quiet!

You will eventually come to one of the many walking routes and cycle paths that link different parts of Stockton. Turn right and follow the path, passing Bishopsgarth Park on the left and continue to the point where it meets Harrowgate Lane. Turn right and stay on the same side of the road unless you want to pop into the Hardwick Social Club or follow the cycleway / path into the Western Parishes - places like Thorpe Thewles, Carlton and Stillington.

Follow Harrowgate Lane along and you will arrive at the Globe adorned roundabout. There is the family friendly Horse & Jockey Pub - complete with children's play area and small garden with food available.

Turn right and head along Durham Road and turn right onto Hardwick Road towards North Tees Hospital where many of our stories began! You will finally conclude your walk back at the shopping area and The Hardwick - one of Stockton's newest micro pubs!