Cocken Wood

About the Site

Cocken Wood is made up of mixed deciduous woodland on steep, mainly south facing slopes of the River Wear. The 8.4 hectare woodland consists of oak, sycamore, silver birch, ash, yew, hazel, holly and hawthorn. The cliff face provides habitat for a rare fern called black spleenwort. On the opposite bank of the river, stand the remains of Finchale Priory, a 13th century Benedictine priory which is looked after by English Heritage.

A number of interesting plant species occur in the wood such as toothwort and moschatel. The name moschatel derives from the Greek moschos, meaning musk, and refers to the faint smell the plant is reputed to have in damp weather. This species is also known as town hall clock, as it has four flowers facing outwards, reminiscent of faces on a clock tower.

Several other species have been introduced to the woodland during its long association with the Priory. These include fly honeysuckle, wayfaring-tree, solomon’s-seal and hop. Hop is well known for its role in the production of beer, but can also be infused in boiling water, and drunk as a treatment for nervous insomnia.

Located on the banks of the River Wear, 8 km (5 miles) downstream from Durham City, Cocken Wood is a popular picnic area. Its steep wooded valley sides provide a sheltered spot in which to picnic, or just walk the riverside path.

Cocken Wood

Location

Approximately 9 km (5.5 miles) by road from Durham City centre.

Approximately 9 km (5.5 miles) by road from Chester-le-Street centre

Grid reference: NZ 297 473

Facilities

Benches are provided and a path running alongside the river forms a pleasant walk. Most of the Priory site is suitable for wheelchair access. There is free parking for Cocken Woods in the lay-by on the Leamside road, and alternative, privately run parking is available at Finchale Priory Farm for which there is a charge. This facility is closer to the Priory and riverside. The farm also runs a shop, café and toilet facilities.

Note: Access to the riverbank from the Leamside road parking is provided by a series of steps, this route is steep but more direct. Alternatively a longer path passes through the woodland before reaching the river. In places this path is also quite steep.

The route from the Finchale Priory side of the river to the Picnic Area crosses the Wear via a wooden bridge. There are a number of steps at each end of the bridge.

Enquiries

Countryside Group
Durham County Council
Environment
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UQ
Tel: 0191 3833594

Finchale Priory (English Heritage)
Tel: 0191 3863828 or 0191 2691200