Welcome to Branksome and Cockerton

Branksome area of Darlington is close to Cockerton Village, Mowden and West Park, all of which host supermarkets, shops, restaurants and a local library.

Cockerton Village is the heart of the area and is recognisable by its picturesque village green. Independent retailers surround the village and there are local florists, bakers, butchers, barbers, cafes, restaurants, post office and supermarkets.

Cockerton library is situated in the centre of the village and is an outreach for the main library situated in Darlington town centre. The library hosts regular activities for adults and children including historical talks by authors and children’s seasonal activities

Being located on the North West of the town Branksome is ideally placed for local walking, cycling and running routes into the countryside.

West Park is a short distance away from Branksome and has many job opportunities within the industrial estate and expansion of businesses within Darlington.

Branksome and Cockerton is a vibrant place to live and boasts a good number of 2 and 3 bedroom family houses. Local primary and secondary schools are located within Branksome and short distances

Branksome Hall Drive

As well as a good selection of family housing one of our biggest sheltered schemes is based in Branksome.

Branksome Hall Drive is a larger complex with unfurnished self-contained apartments. There are large communal areas with a kitchen for cooking activities. There is also open garden spaces and seating for everyone to enjoy.

Windsor Court

Windsor Court also offers unfurnished apartments which are self contained. At the complex there are large communal areas which includes a sun lounge to view the award winning gardens.

Our schemes have a keen focus on community living with a warm and welcoming feel. The varied activities can help you maintain a healthy and independent life. All 55+ housing also comes with the Lifeline service giving you extra peace of mind. For more information please click on the link : 55+ Housing. [external link]

Fun Facts

100 years ago Cockerton was an independent village and had the freedom to run their own affairs even electing their own mayor. It was then absorbed into the borough of Darlington and has now become an important part of the town.

Adjacent to Branksome on the Northern side lies the old Darlington to Barnard Castle railway station. Although there is little evidence of this now having primarily been reclaimed by farmers. When Branksome was first built it was possible to follow the railway line all the way to Barnard Castle.

Useful contact details:

Housing Team

• Phone Number - 01325 405333
• Email Address - [email protected]

Branksome Hall Drive

• Email Address - [email protected]
• Phone Number - 01325 283186

Windsor Court

• Phone Number - 01325 462579
• Email Address - [email protected]

Tenants Panel Member for Branksome

• Don A 
• Carl B 

Contact Tenant Involvement Team - 01325 405 333.

Exciting Updates Coming Soon!

We’re currently working on finalizing the engagement dates and estate inspection schedules for 2026. These events are an important opportunity for residents to share feedback, raise concerns, and help us improve your community.

Once the dates are confirmed, we’ll publish the full schedule on our website so you can plan ahead. In the meantime, make sure to follow our social media channels for the latest updates and announcements.

Thank you for your continued involvement—we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

Engagement Information

Join us at our friendly coffee morning drop-ins for a relaxed chat with your housing officer—no appointment needed. These informal sessions are a great opportunity to raise concerns, ask questions, or simply connect with your local team. We also host regular tenant engagement meetings where you can share feedback, discuss local issues, and help shape the services you receive. See below engagement events in your local area. 

Estate Inspection 

We carry out regular inspections at each of our estates.

An inspection is an excellent opportunity to identify any issues that need dealing with and speak to residents about their concerns or matters they wish to bring to our attention. Please pop along and let the team know what's happening in your area.

For more information on Estate Inspections click here. [external link]

Darlington Community Grocery Information

Darlington Community Grocery is open for the people of Darlington, helping to keep families fed and give members access to support too.

For more information: Darlington Community Grocery - Community Grocery [external link]

The Bread and Butter Thing

Their mobile food clubs give access to nutritious and affordable food taken into the heart of communities starved of money, food and resources. This low cost weekly shop provides essential produce for family eating – fresh fruit and veg, fridge favourites and cupboard staples.

For more information about the The Bread and Butter Thing that is happening in your area: The Bread and Butter Thing - Affordable Food Clubs [external link]