Description
West Wood and the Drake Stone
West Wood and the Drake Stone is a walk in one of the loveliest parts of Northumberland, around the old and peculiarly named village of Harbottle. It takes in the impressive Drake Stone, that sits on the hill overlooking the village. This is a huge single block of sandstone that, in the very distant past, was part of the rocky outcrop close to where it now lies.
Details
| Hills: |  |
One hill |
| Distance: |  |
Short distance |
| Grade: |  |
Easy with one hill |
| Map: |  |
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| This walk is on OS map Explorer OL16 The Cheviot Hills. Click on map image to buy this map. | ||
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The Start – West Wood
We will start the walk a little way out of Harbottle, at the West Wood. There is a short steep climb to the point where we exit the Wood onto the Harbottle Hills. There is a seat here, with a wonderful view, if you need a rest before carrying on.
We continue up into the heather and onto the top of the hills. You will see the Drake Stone on the way.
The Drake Stone
At the top of the hill are the crags and sitting on the south side is the Drake Stone. Whilst it is just a large rock, it is still impressive. If you aren’t interested in the rock itself, the views are spectacular.
Even the view towards Otterburn Range is wonderful and this is highlighted by Harbottle Lake.
West Wood
The path alongside Harbottle Lake takes a sharp right by the warning sign for the Range. There is possibility of encountering live ordnance beyond this point, so best avoid it. The scenery changes to woodland here and the path becomes more enclosed.
Eventually, this path emerges to give a great view of Otterburn Range. The post is where the red flag would be hanging, if the range was active.
The path descends down a track called The Swire and back to the road.
From here, we will cross the river and then take a track through the fields behind Harbottle, where we wil see Harbottle Castle, before we follow a track by the river and cross a bridge back into the village.
Back at Harbottle
Up until recently there was very little in the way of facilities at Harbottle. However, The Star Inn has been substantially redeveloped and offers not only a pub, but a shop and a restaurant. We will be partaking of refreshments here, if you wish to join us.
We look forward to you joining us for this walk.
Julie and Martin x
Gallery – West Wood and Drake Stone
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Strolls with Poles – Nordic Walking for Fun and Fitness