Coxhoe’s Limestone Linx

This is a lovely ride using the Limestone LinX cycle tracks that link Coxhoe and the surrounding villages. The communities are in a rare and nationally important geological location because they lie on the East Durham Limestone Escarpment. Almost our entire route is on tracks or cycle paths.  We start from Active life Centre @Coxhoe (formally Coxhoe Leisure Centre.)  We leave the village using the Kelloe Way passing ‘Raisby Hill Grassland ‘a reserve managed by Durham Wildlife Trust.  We skirt past Kelloe on part of the Kelloe Heritage Trail. Then we cross the road onto trails on the reclaimed spoil heap of East Hetton Colliery, now a wildlife haven.  We continue until we reach the road between the villages of Cassop and Quarrington Hill.  We skirt through the edge of Quarrington Hill with superb views westwards, until we reach the cycle path which takes us past the disused Cold Knuckles Quarry and eventually back downhill to park Hill and back to Coxhoe. This is a distance of about 7miles with some good views, wild flowers and the possibility of seeing Durham’s Argus Butterfly. A mountain bike or hybrid is recommended for this ride. The County Durham and Darlington NHS Get Active scheme have kindly agreed for us use of some of their bikes/helmets for free.  If required please can you contact me? It is a good idea to bring a drink and please dress appropriately for the weather.  Wearing a helmet is advisable.   This is a great way to meet new friends, get fit and have fun. We look forward to seeing you there. Children 11+ Helmets a must  For further info or bike hire please contact Sylvia on 079591 472182