Short Walks: The Drake Stone & Harbottle Lake
A wonderful short hike up to the ancient Drake Stone rewards you with stunning views over the surrounding countryside and over to the ruins of Harbottle Castle.
Photograph by @stuhedley
Explore the fascinating history of Harbottle on this 3-mile circular walk with expansive views over the surrounding Northumbrian Countryside and distant Simonside Hills.
A steep, short ascent leads you to an enormous 30ft mythical boulder resting on top of a hillside opposite the village of Harbottle. Just beyond The Drake Stone lies a secluded lake should you be tempted by a wild swimming experience!
10-STEP WALKING GUIDE
From the Forestry Commission Car Park at the Northern end of Harbottle, take the forest track signed ‘Drake Stone’ uphill through the wood.
Go through the gate. Turn right and follow the footpath for half a mile over the heather moorland.
Pass through the kissing gate and continue uphill along the sandy footpath, making for the cairn ahead on the left.
Keep to the path making for the huge sandstone boulder. Keep left where the path forks.
After taking in the spectacular views of the distant Simonside Hills, retrace your steps back down to where the path split and turn left, following the main path uphill towards Harbottle Lake.
Cross the stile and continue on the path along the edge of the lake. If you’re brave enough, enjoy an invigorating wild swimming experience.
At the end of the lake, follow the fence line into the trees. Follow the woodland path straight ahead until you reach a gate.
Continue Northwards for about a mile until you reach a gate where you turn right.
Go through the gate, and turn right following the track downhill to the road.
Turn right and walk back towards Harbottle. Enter the Forestry Commission car park on your right.
Distance: 3 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate - short, steep ascent along an obvious sandy path. Walking boots are recommended as they can be boggy in places.
Duration: Allow 1.5 hours
Start: Harbottle Forestry Commission Car Park
Recommended OS Explorer Map: OL16
Grid Reference: NT921044
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Nearest Pub: The Star Inn, Harbottle