Image shared for The Drake Stone, Harbottle Lake and the Coquet
Upland / Hill Circular

The Drake Stone, Harbottle Lake and the Coquet

Northumberland

Distance
4.6 mi
Est. time
3h
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A varied circuit from West Wood, with open moorland, forest paths and a riverside return. Climb the signed path towards the Drake Stone, the huge sandstone boulder above Harbottle, then continue to Harbottle Lake. Follow the path along the north-east edge of the water and climb into West Wood. The forest path meets a track that descends towards Alwinton.

Turn left on the road and cross the Coquet on the road bridge. Take the minor road past the limekiln and Park House, then follow the field track downhill towards the river. Cross the footbridge into Harbottle and return through the village, passing the castle on the way back to the car park.

The circuit is 7.4 km. Allow about three hours. There are stiles, muddy sections and uneven moorland paths. Stay on the path beside Harbottle Lake: the surrounding bog can conceal deep water. Keep dogs under close control around livestock and take OS OL16. Start at West Wood car park, grid NT925049.

Route reference: https://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/The-Drake-Stone-and-Harbottle-Walk.pdf

Walk details

Main location
Harbottle
Nearby town
Harbottle
Walk type
Circular
Category
Upland / Hill
Distance
4.6 mi (7.4 km)
Est. time
3h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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