Start at grade 1 listed  historic  Sunderland Bridge, begin along river path but then gently climb using lanes and quiet roads up to the edge of Brandon and join the footpath along the former  Bishop Auckland railway line. Continue along the line with pleasant walking through wooded and open sections, pass the former Brancepath station and later views of Brancepath Castle itself. Leave the railway and gently descend on lanes and tracks to the river Wear at Page Bank bridge and join The Weardale Way on the north bank of the river enjoying open views of meadowland and woods. Finally passing again under the 11 arched Croxdale Railway Viaduct  built in 1872 and carrying the North East mainline before arriving back at Sunderland Bridge.