Bishopton
Located in County Durham, England, the village of Bishopton is in the borough of Darlington and situated to the west of Stockton-on-Tees.
Once a farming community with rows of cottages and several farms forming a long wide street with a village green, Bishopton now stands on a small hill about 6 miles north-west of Stockton. Bishopton is mentioned in records as early as 1104, however, the only remains of any previous occupation or settlement in the area is that of the castle at Castle Hill. Recorded in historical documents as 'Castle Holl, Biscoptun' it consists of a 38 foot high motte which is surrounded by a ditch and outer bank edged by two lines of lower banks on the west and a single line on the east. The earthworks are complex and well-preserved with a bailey to the south which itself appears to be divided into inner and outer wards.
St Peter's Church, a Grade II listed building, located in the High Street of Bishopton is of late 13th century origin. However, it was rebuilt during 1846-1847 at the expense of the vicar and his three sisters, leaving just a few of the earlier walls in situ. An old stone cross which used to stand on the village green is now situated in the churchyard.
The West House Riding School in Bishopton is a 'British Horse Society' approved riding school establishment and is licensed by the local authority. The proprietor, along with other instructors offer horse riding lessons for children, family groups, novices as well as experienced riders with or without their own horses. The riding school has excellent facilities including an outdoor all weather arena as well as an indoor riding area. Lessons are either half an hour or an hour with private, semi private, or group lessons available. 'Pony Care Days' are held for children wishing to learn more about the care of ponies, their grooming, along with stable management.
West House Trout Lakes consist of four well stocked clear water spring fed lakes set in 8 acres of tranquil surroundings. Stocked with Blue and Rainbow trout of between 2 and 14 lbs, with tactics of single fly only. West House Trout Lakes are a Trout Master Venue and open all year round from 8am until dusk. Another smaller fishing lake in Bishopton is the 2 acre Horseshoe Lake which is stocked with bream, carp, perch, roach and tench, with day tickets available.
Bishopton Lake is home to the Windsurfing centre, a popular venue for all water sports. Established for over 25 years the centre offers a complete service for the surfing fraternity from novice to professional. All staff are water sports enthusiasts including top flight sailors on hand to give added expertise.
Although a quiet and out-of-the-way place, Bishopton is well-served by regular buses to the nearby cities and towns. Access by car to the mainline railway station at Darlington is about 15 minutes, as is the journey time to Teesside (Durham and Tees Valley) International Airport.
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