It was just getting light as we set off at 4:00am - what a time to start a holiday! By setting out at that time the roads were quiet and so we had an easy journey up from Suffolk. This also meant we could be in Rothbury for 10:00am and still have the rest of the day for a walk.
We were dropped off at the car park by the River Coquet and began the walk straight away. It was a nice bright day as we left the town behind us. We were soon passing the first of the pubs, though it was too early to stop yet.
1.Coquet Vale Hotel, Rothbury - 10:40am
A smart looking hotel. No time to stop this early in the morning.
It had clearly been raining prior to our arrival. It was quite wet underfoot as the path took us away from the road and through farmland to reach some woodland. We found ourselves slipping and sliding in mud as we headed up through the woods. In places the path was also quite overgrown, but we eventually emerged on to open ground with good views along Coquetdale to Rothbury.
The going became much easier as we walked at a higher level above the River Coquet, passing the ruined Craghead farm. We passed by a variety of farm animals - sheep, pigs and longhorn cattle, including a large bull who thankfully took no notice of us.
The path dropped steeply down through woods to rejoin the side of the River Coquet. We briefly followed the river bank until reaching the arched bridge in Pauperhaugh.
We passed through meadows following the river for a short time before heading uphill on a more direct route as the river curved sharply away through a series of bends.
We came close to the river once more above Brinkburn Priory but views were restricted by trees. Only an ocasional brief glimpse of an arch or tower could be seen.
We arrived at Weldon Bridge at 1:45pm and met up with our family at the pub for our lunch.
2.Anglers Arms, Weldon - 1:45pm
Cosy friendly pub. Excellent food with very generous portions. A very large stuffed pike mounted on one wall.
After a long lunch break we continued on our path along the Coquet valley towards Felton. The route initially followed a good track passing a few houses but gradually became muddier as we approached Elyhaugh. At one point we needed our walking poles to keep ourselves upright as the downhill slopes were so slippery.
After passing under the busy A1 we entered grounds of Felton Park with a large variety of mature trees.
At the edge of Felton village we crossed the old 15th century bridge over the River Coquet into West Thirston.
3.Northumberland Arms, West Thirston - 5:45pm
A busy but comfortable pub with a variety of seating areas.
4.Stags Head, Felton - 6:15pm
Very quiet, dated local pub. Friendly but inexperienced staff
2 comments:
The Stags Head is now a freehold pub which has had a major refurbishment It now offers quality bunkhouse accomodation and local real ales.Worth a visit.
That sounds good jimmy - if we get back to the area again we'll call in to see you and the changes.
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