Explore Eighton Banks #1 - St Thomas Traditional Cache

This is part one of an eight cache trail around the area of Eighton Banks, with lovely views down to the coast and across the Team Valley towards the Angel of the North. The route will take you approximately an hour and a half, or longer if you avail yourself of the three pubs enroute. This is a magnetic keysafe.

Most caches are accessible by bike, but some pushing may be required. Great for kids and dog walking, but be careful of the main road on the last part of the trail. Parking is readily available in the residential area near the first cache, as well as several pub car parks along the way, but be wary of blocking the road and side paths. 

St Thomas' Church was built and consecrated in 1854. Although the church is small, it is a regular host of big weddings and events. The church also hosts regular fairs throughout the year. The war memorial you can see from the road was built in 1921 by Dr. Parkin of Newcastle, and sculpted by D. Morrison. It carries the names of 58 men from WWI, and 19 from WWII.  

From here, walk down past the Animal Refuge and along the path until you get to the cycle way and the old train tracks. Turn right and walk along the path (or if you're feeling adventurous you can walk along the tracks!). Although it has been years since this part of the tracks was used, be wary when walking along them. This cache is in a high muggle area so stealth is required.