Morpeth and Bothal – May 2021

£12.00

Date: Sunday 9th May 2021
Start time: 10:00 am
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate (Distance)

Event Expired

Description

Morpeth and Bothal Walk

The walk between Morpeth and Bothal is along the River Wansbeck.  We start the walk through the aptly named Bluebell Wood.  In spring this becomes a sea of blue as the Bluebells bloom.

Along the Wansbeck

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The river valley is wooded and peaceful.  Even the busy road doesn’t disturb the peace down here.  All you hear is the birds, the river and wind in the trees.  There are more bluebells down here, along with lesser celandine and wood anemone. You might also smell the familiar scent of garlic, from the wild garlic that grows everywhere.

The walk follows a well trodden path down river.  Soon it passes under the viaduct that carries the East Coast Mainline into Morpeth.

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Along the path there are areas where we can sit down and just enjoy the river, as well as places to investigate like an old chapel and vintage graffiti that has been carved into stones.

We can even have a little rest at a lovely picnic spot by the river, before getting to Bothal.

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Bothal

Evidence of industry is also present in the remnants of the old mill near Bothal.  The weir shown below was used to form a deep pool above it, where water would be channelled off to the mill.

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This is the end of the path along the river, but it’s always worth a little walk up into Bothal village itself, to see the castle and take a look at the stepping stones, before returning the same way.  The views on the return leg are from the opposite perspective and just as good as before.

Tea and cake

When we get back to Morpeth, we are hoping to visit Cafe des Amis for a snack before heading home.

Hope you can join us.

Julie and Martin x


Gallery – Morpeth and Bothal


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Strolls with Poles – Nordic Walking for Fun and Fitness

Location

This shows the start location for this walk.

Nearest postcode: NE61 1JX
OS Grid Reference: NZ 20367 86455

Parking: The lay-by on the A197,  just past Morrison’s, outside of town.  Parking is free.

Toilets:  There are no toilets available at the start.