During lockdown getting out for a walk is important for your physical and mental health so why not take in some of Sunderland’s history on your daily strolls.
The heritage trail, which was produced with Sunderland City Council, takes you through areas rich with history – including the Victoria Viaduct, Worm Hill and the site of the Girdle Cake Cottage.
The walk takes you from Fatfield Bridge around to James Steel Park and back. We take a look at some of the sights you will see and the stories they tell including that of the Lambton Worm.
1. Fatfield Bridge
Fatfield Bridge was originally built in 1889 at a cost of £8,000. It was officially opened on 29 January 1890 by the 3rd Earl of Durham. Take the road to the left of the bridge - passing cottages on the left and the River Wear to the right. Photo: KB Sunderland Echo
2. Biddick Pumping Station
Walk along South View to Biddick Pumping Station which is the site of the former Girdle Cake Cottage. Photo: Tim Richardson
3. Girdle Cake Cottage on the Wear.
This cottage was reputedly the refuge of the Earl of Perth, James Drummond. The Earl is said to have taken sanctuary here after the Jacobite Army was defeated by the Duke of Cumberland’s Government forces at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Photo: Tim Richardson
4. Victoria Viaduct, Washington
Follow the riverside walk to Victoria Viaduct. The final stone of this bridge was laid on Queen Victoria's Coronation Day on 28 June 1838. Keep on the lower path and follow it until just after Jubilee Terrace before turning left up the bank. Photo: Stu Norton