Norton

With its 18th & 19th Century houses and shops, set around its Georgian High Street, Norton retains a unique character. The village is one of several conservation areas in the borough of Stockton. With the charming pond on Norton Green, overlooked by the 11th Century St Mary's Church, it is one of the region's most picturesque spots. John Walker (inventor of the friction match) is buried in the grounds of Norton Parish Church.

Take a wander along Norton High Street any day of the week and you'll find it a bustling community, which features the usual grocery stores along with a good selection of pubs, restaurants and a handful of speciality stores.