POSTPONED - Harbottle/Alwinton Day Walk
8 people attending
12 places left
This walk features a mix of woodland, remains of a castle, natural features such as the Drake Stone and two wells (one of which still serves as a water source for the local population).
To start, it's back along the road to the castle for a wander round the grounds before heading on to Harbottle Wood. The castle itself was built on the instruction of Henry II as a border defence against the Scots.
After passing the wells, it's on to Sharperton where we may see alpacas peering over at us from the fields. It's then up, up and above the Coquet on the lanes. The route then drops down to meet the Coquet at Low Alwinton before climbing through West Wood to meet with Harbottle Lake.
From the lake it's onward to the Drake Stone where we can take in the view of the surrounding area before heading back to the car park.
After the walk, there's the option of post walk refreshments in the Star Inn.
Note: This walk fringes on the Otterburn ranges, so it may be subject to changes depending on firing times. I will update the description once the firing times are published.
Photo Credits:
Photos were all taken by the event leader while out on recces of this route and permission is granted to OutdoorLads for their use.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking.
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: Proper walking trousers. Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch. See the kit list for further information.