Ford

Settlement in Durham

England

Ford

The Kings Arms Traditional style pub that stands alone in an area of industrial units and factories. — The Kings Arms Credit: David Robinson

Ford is a small village located in the county of Durham, in the northeast of England. Situated on the banks of the River Wear, Ford is part of the larger rural parish of Monkwearmouth, and it is approximately 7 miles southwest of the city of Sunderland.

The village is known for its picturesque and idyllic setting, surrounded by rolling hills and green countryside. It is a close-knit community with a population of around 500 residents. The village features a mix of traditional stone-built cottages and more modern houses, creating a charming and unique atmosphere.

Ford is renowned for its historical significance, particularly its connection to the nearby Finchale Priory, a medieval Benedictine priory founded in the 12th century. Visitors can explore the ruins of the priory, which provide a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Despite its small size, Ford offers a variety of amenities to its residents and visitors. The village boasts a primary school, a village hall, and a local pub, serving as a social hub for the community. The surrounding natural landscape also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and fishing.

Overall, Ford provides a peaceful and picturesque retreat from urban life, offering a close community spirit and a chance to explore the historical and natural beauty of the Durham countryside.

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Ford Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.905/-1.419022 or Grid Reference NZ3756. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Kings Arms

Traditional style pub that stands alone in an area of industrial units and factories.

David Robinson

Pallion Metro Station and Retail Park

The metro station stands on what was the upper yard for the Pallion shipyard railway system. The shipyard railway described an arc enclosing the land now used by the retail park as it made its way steeply down to the main shipyard on the riverside.

David Robinson

Northern Spire Bridge

Two span cable-stayed bridge across the river Wear, constructed 2015 - 2018. This new crossing upstream of the Queen Alexandra and Wearmouth bridges was required to reduce traffic congestion in the city.

David Robinson

Path under the Metro line at South Hylton

David Robinson

Looking down the line, South Hylton

View from the front of the Metro.

David Robinson

River Wear near South Hylton

A collection of tyres in the mudbank of the tidal river.

David Robinson

Colima Avenue

Chris Heaton

Northern Spire Bridge

The Northern Spire is a road bridge across the River Wear in Sunderland. As well as lanes for traffic, the Northern Spire also has paths for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge is a two-span cable-stayed structure supported by a central A-frame. Construction began in 2015 and the bridge opened in August 2018. More information about the Northern Spire can be found on Sunderland City Council's website: Link

Chris Heaton

Footpath leading off Timber Beach Road

Heads down and then follows the northern bank of the River Wear

Chris Heaton

Crossing the Northern Spire Bridge from the South

Chris Heaton

Forest of Traffic Lights in Pallion, Sunderland

Countless lights control the traffic at the crossroads of European Way, Woodbine Terrace, Pallion Subway and Pallion New Road

Chris Heaton

New Pallion Road

The Weardale Way follows the pavement down this road, classified as the B1405. The long distance footpath has been gradually diminishing in importance as it enters the precincts of Sunderland. Signposts that were once abundant, have now totally disappeared as this point is reached. It seems it no longer exists.

Chris Heaton

Queen Alexandra Bridge

As seen from the Weardale Way, as the long distance footpath makes its way down to the river.

Chris Heaton

River Wear at Deptford, Sunderland

The River Wear flows generally eastward from its source in the Northern Pennines to its mouth at Sunderland. It is 60 miles long. Major settlements on the river are Durham and Sunderland. Wikipedia: Link

Chris Heaton

Gloomy Morning beside the River Wear

The tidal river at Deptford, Sunderland

Chris Heaton

The Saltgrass, Ayres Quay, Sunderland

The Saltgrass Inn daubed in a deep shade of Powderham Blue, passed by on the Weardale Way long distance footpath.

Chris Heaton

Where is the Weardale Way?

Shortly after passing The Saltgrass Inn on Hanover Place, the long distance path veers to the left towards the river - at least it is supposed to. Problem is that it has been closed off. Never mind, thought I, there is another path further up the road. Footpath closed and entrance firmly shut of with knife like railings to ensure compliance. No diversion signs, in fact it seems that the Weardale Way no longer exists once it reaches Sunderland.

Chris Heaton