How Kath stepped into a new role as a volunteer walk leader

Hi, I'm Kath and I am a volunteer walk leader for the Tyne Derwent Way (TDW). I saw the trail advertised and went off to walk it, only to find the directions not always very clear. I decided to contact the TDW to mention this, and from that moment life changed direction for me - in a really good way!

I was asked to help with signage along the trail, and quickly began to consider my forthcoming retirement and what I might like to do as part of this. To my delight, my suggestion of offering some local walks along the more urban stretch of the TDW was accepted. Since February 2025 I have offered a number of walks of varying lengths between St Mary's Heritage Centre and the Hikey Bridge. 

A sense of purpose

I love the sense of purpose that being part of the TDW has given me. I discovered parts of Gateshead I had never seen and have met the most fantastic people along the way who seem to enjoy the historical and nerdy information that I try to pass on to those who come along to the walks. 

The first walk I created was through Gateshead Riverside Park and back along the bottom path near the bridges. Having offered this walk several times I am now coming close to having a favourite sculpture - Rolling Moon (pictured). I love the fact that it was constructed for the Glasgow Garden festival but returned to Gateshead when the 'baton' was handed over to us in 1990. It is simple but very meaningful, representing the effect of the moon on the tides. 

I knew I needed a focus after retirement and being a volunteer walk leader is right up my street - I adore both history and hiking. I have also met lots of other people who live and work along the TDW, and have learned so much more about Gateshead and the people who make it tick. 

Something for everyone

The Tyne Derwent Way has something for everyone of all ages and abilities. I love how much is offered either free of charge or at a very low cost, as times are hard for so many of us.

I am really happy that I will be continuing to offer my walks over the winter - with no cost to those who choose to come along. The longest walk I offer is 3.5 miles, and the shortest is 2 miles, but each mile adds up and helps keep us all fitter, as well as enjoying the company and learning a few quirky facts along the way. I am like a magpie, I love the stories that my groups tell me and I am enjoying still learning in my 60s. 

Look out for Kath's upcoming walks, including one this Saturday (11 October) on our events page.