The Drake Strone and Harbottle

This moderate 5-mile circular walk through the Northumberland National Park is steeped in myth and history. Starting from the Forestry Commission car park at West Wood, the route climbs gently through tall pine forest before opening out onto the heather moorland of the Harbottle Crags Nature Reserve.

Early in the walk, a short detour leads to the Drake Stone — a colossal sandstone boulder that dominates the hillside. Local legend claims it has ancient healing powers, and it’s easy to see why the place feels special. The views from up here are stunning, stretching across the Coquet valley and into the Cheviot Hills beyond.

After returning to the main path, the route descends to the edge of Harbottle Lake. The terrain here is beautiful but can be treacherous — the surrounding bog is deceptively deep, so it's vital to stick to the footpath. From there, the walk climbs again into mixed woodland, following tracks and field edges until it emerges near the quiet road into Alwinton.

After crossing the River Coquet, the return journey begins. You’ll pass lime kilns, an old packhorse bridge, and follow quiet lanes through the peaceful village of Harbottle. Just before the end, don’t miss the ruins of Harbottle Castle — perched on a hill with panoramic views, it’s a great spot for a rest or photo.

The full route takes around 2.5 hours, with a mix of forest paths, moorland trails, and quiet country roads. There’s also a shorter 3-mile version available if time or energy is tight — just turn right after crossing the Coquet at Alwinton.

It’s a lovely mix of natural beauty and local legend, perfect for anyone wanting a bit of wild Northumberland without straying too far off track. The route is well-signed and easy to follow, but still feels like a little adventure — especially when you’re standing beneath the looming bulk of the Drake Stone, wondering just how long it’s been watching over the valley.