The Derwent Walk Railway Path is an extremely popular linear route between Consett and Swalwell, with fabulous views across the Derwent Valley. It is 11 miles long and is suitable for cycles, horses and wheelchairs as well as those on foot. Most of the route is managed by Durham County Council's Countryside Service.
Its southern end, at Lydgetts Junction, links to the Lanchester Valley Railway Path, Waskerley Way Railway Path and the Consett-Sunderland cycle route. At its northern end is the Derwenthaugh Country Park. This has two visitor centres: Thornley Woodland Centre and Swalwell, both run by Gateshead Council. There are bird hides, picnic areas, information and toilets.