S&DR & Saints Trails: Durham's Historic Hub
From the S&DR Railway Heritage Trail to the Northern Saints' Trails, explore every direction.
A Destination for Every Direction
The expansive terrain surrounding Broom Mill Farm—stretching across Bishop Auckland, West Auckland, and for miles in every direction—is a vibrant tapestry of heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are traversing the intricate network of public footpaths, scenic cycle routes, or ancient bridleways, every path offers a unique opportunity to investigate the heart of the Durham countryside. The local wildlife and rolling vistas provide a stunning backdrop, serving as an extraordinary canvas for professional and amateur photography alike.
As you explore, you will find the landscape dotted with traditional working farms and echoes of industrial history at every turn. This area is a true sanctuary for those seeking to reconnect with nature and authentic rural life. To help you navigate these local treasures, we provide a wealth of detailed brochures. We encourage you to pick these up to uncover hidden gems and plan your next adventure, providing the perfect complement to your refreshments at The Mill Kitchen.
Celebrating the S&DR Bicentenary (1825–2025)
Broom Mill Estate sits at the heart of global railway history. As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the
Stockton and Darlington Railway, we honor the legacy of Locomotion No. 1 and the pioneering
Shildon Coal Drops.
Our Railway Trail allows visitors to walk the very landscape that fueled the industrial revolution. We are proud to be a key partner in the Bicentenary celebrations, connecting our farm shop to two centuries of local innovation and pride.
The Northern Saints: Way of Love
Broom Mill Farm is a featured stop on The Way of Love, one of the six prestigious Northern Saints Trails. Reflecting the dawn of Christianity in the North, this route connects Hartlepool to Durham Cathedral. We offer a peaceful sanctuary for modern-day pilgrims and hikers to rest and enjoy the lakeside views before continuing their journey toward Bishop Auckland.
Broom Mill Farm is perfectly situated as the natural resting point for local explorers.
Cycle-Friendly Pitstop
Ideally located for cyclists on the County Durham network. With plenty of outdoor space and refreshing farmhouse drinks, we are the perfect break between Shildon and the Gaunless Valley.
Public Footpath Network
Our farm is criss-crossed by ancient public rights of way. These paths connect West Auckland directly to the Toft Hill incline and the scenic River Gaunless trails.
As Seen on TV: 200 Years of Railway History
We were honored to be part of the story documenting the incredible 200-year legacy of the Shildon railway. Our heritage trail sits at the heart of this history.
Featured by Michael Portillo in his exploration of the Gaunless Valley and the birth of the modern railway system.
1. Start: Locomotion Museum, Shildon
The journey begins at the world's first railway town.
Locomotion Museum – Where the journey began.
2. The Hub: Broom Mill Farm
The heart of the trail network. We are the only refreshment stop, Outside area for walkers and their dogs located directly along this stretch.
3. The Gaunless Bridge Abutments
See the original 1825 stone abutments that once supported the world's first iron railway bridge.
4. Toft Hill: The Final Incline
Be prepared—the route is all uphill from here! Top up supplies at the Farm Shop first before tackling the incline.
Brusselton Incline
The New Gaunless Bridge
The Route to Toft Hill
Wind the Waggons Up
