Description
Allen Banks and Staward Gorge
The Allen Banks and Staward Gorge walk takes us along the gorgeous banks of the River Allen and in the woodland and farmland surrounding it. The area that we walk in is mostly managed by The National Trust.
Storm Desmond severely damaged the Allen Banks area a few years ago. The National Trust have rebuilt the paths around the river and woodland, that were washed away. The job that they have done is wonderful and really compliments the area.
Starting at the National Trust car park for Allen Banks, we take the path along the river, through the woodland. The path follows the River Allen for about two miles, until we reach Plankey Mill. Here we cross the bridge and then follow the opposite bank of the river down to Staward Gorge. The paths down here are less travelled, as it is not so accessible. After taking a look at Staward Peel, we will follow the same path back to Plankey Mill and then take a path through Morralee Wood and back to the start.
Places of interest
The River Allen
The River Allen is a confluence of the West and East Allen rivers, that have their source is the North Pennines. The source of the East Allen is at Allenheads, where we had a walk in June 2018. The source of the West Allen is near Ninebanks.
Staward Peel
Staward Peel is now just the ruins of what it once was. At one time it was a 14th century peel tower, overlooking the steep gorge below. There is also the remains of a second building, likely a gatehouse made from Roman material.
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Strolls with poles – Nordic Walking for Fun and Fitness