The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.4 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
201 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk

The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk is a fantastic adventure in Northumberland that features interesting historical sites, geological features, and a relaxing riverside setting. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill along the edge of West Wood to reach the 30ft tall Drake Stone, looping around the forest to eventually follow the River Coquet past Harbottle Castle. This is an excellent outing for anyone with an interest in visiting historical sites.

Guide-book quality info for over 8,000 trails

View The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk

If you enjoy relatively quick walking adventures that feature a number of scenic highlights and historical sites, then the Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk is a great way to explore the Northumberland countryside.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way through the tree cover to the southwest, following along the edge of West Wood as you climb uphill to reach the Drake Stone, a 9 m tall hunk of sandstone that locals have long believed to hold mystical powers. Shortly after visiting the stone, you will pass by the shores of Harbottle Lake and cut through the forest to the north in order to make your way downhill.

After following the road north for a short stretch, you will turn sharply to the southeast along the banks of the River Coquet, eventually arriving at the edge of Harbottle. Here, you will enjoy some nice views of the ruined castle that was constructed around 1160 CE at the request of King Henry II, most likely as a defence against the Scots that routinely raided the area. Continuing through the village, you will follow the road until you arrive back at the car park where you began.

Getting to the The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk Trailhead

The trailhead for the Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk can be found 0.8 km west of Harbottle at the West Wood car park.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

The Drake Stone and Harbottle Castle Circular Walk Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs