Causey Arch Wood

About the Site

Causey Arch, built in 1725-6 is the oldest surviving single arch railway bridge in the world. It spans the gorge of Causey Burn. The woods occupy the steep banks of the Burn (Causey Gill).

Much of the 22 hectare site is covered by deciduous woodland with mature oaks and sycamores. In some areas downy birch is more common. Shrubs are rather sparse but include holly, elder and ivy.

A typical ground flora can be found, including hard fern and the uncommon smooth-stalked sedge. The site is considered to be of value for bird life.

Bluebells

The western section of the wood contains the Causey Arch with paths and amenity grassland. The woods are managed to enhance nature conservation and public enjoyment.

Footpaths through the wooded gorge link the car park and picnic area to the Arch. One path leads down to the valley bottom. This route passes alongside a massive man-made earth embankment before following the Burn upstream to the Arch, crossing a series of footbridges on the way. The path along the gorge at Causey Arch is steep with steps, and there are several narrow bridges. There is an easier alternative route (suitable for wheelchair access) to the Arch from the car park that follows and then crosses the Tanfield Railway, then proceeds along the course of the original wagon way to the Arch.

There is also an extensive rights of way network linking Causey Arch with the Beamish Valley.

The Tanfield Railway was opened in 1725 and is the world’s oldest operating railway. It was constructed to take coal from Stanley and Marley Hill to the River Tyne. Originally, horses hauled small wagons along a wooden track. They were replaced in the 19th century by metal rails and locomotives. The line closed in 1962 but is now being run by a private company assisted by enthusiastic volunteers.

Causey Arch Wood

Location

Causey Arch is just off the A6076 Stanley-Sunniside road, 6½ miles from Newcastle, 7½ from Chester-le-Street, and 11 miles from Durham via Sacriston and Stanley.

Grid reference: NZ 203 561

Facilities

Free parking and entry, and the site is open at all times.

Benches and picnic tables.

No Toilet Facilities Available

The Tanfield Railway currently operates a passenger service on several miles of track between Sunniside and East Tanfield which calls at Causey Arch.

Enquiries

Durham County Council
Environment
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UQ
Tel (Reserve and picnic area): 0191 3833594
Tel (Tanfield railway): 0191 3887545