We are the Ponteland Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Graham S.
Above Rothbury. Starting in the centre of the town, we proceed westwards up Gravelly Bank and Hillside Road West, before going over a stone stile and up a short steep hill through woodland and past some disused quarries to Gimmerknowe Farm (where local heather honey is available to buy!) then on to a gentle uphill track and round the northern fringe of wooded hillsides before descending to Primrose Cottage and a walk through woodland (where the autumn colours should be at their best) and then on a track over rough moorland before a steep descent next to the Coplish Burn, back into Rothbury. The walk offers magnificent views towards Simonside and over the Coquet valley.
Terrain: The walk is mainly on good, well-defined woodland and moorland tracks, but there are some short very steep sections and, in places the terrain underfoot is rough and could be boggy/muddy in places. Grade: Moderate.
Refreshments: There will be lunch stop en route and refreshments are also available in Rothbury at the end of the walk, as well as picnic tables next to the car park.
Start point/parking: 10.30 in the free Cowhaugh car park on the south side of the river in Rothbury (Grid ref. NZ057015 ; nearest postcode NE66 7SH) Directions to start point: From the centre of Ponteland, take the A696 and then turn right onto the B6342 (SP Rothbury) at Kirkharle. Follow this via Wallington, Cambo and Rothley all the way into Rothbury. Before crossing the bridge into the town centre, turn left, then right into the car park. There are no toilet facilities here, but there are some a short walk away in the town centre.
