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Northumberland-Walks.co.uk - photographic walks in Northumberland.Rothley Castle Circular Walk.IntroductionThis walk follows a circular route around the hill upon which Rothley Castle is perched. It provides fine views north-west towards Harwood Forest and Simonside, also to the east towards Longwhitton. The walk starts at Rothley Crossroads where there is a large layby on the road from Morpeth. The route can be followed in either direction, we walked anti-clockwise Total distance - just under 3.5 miles.
WalkOn leaving your car, walk along to the crossroads and turn left towards Scots Gap. Follow the road south, taking care as some traffic may be travelling quite fast along here.
On your left are Rothley Crags above which the castle can be seen. To the right across open fields are views towards Harwood.
After about a mile you will reach the junction to Rothley. Turn left here and walk along the road to Rothley which consists of a few houses.
Just past the houses on your left take the signposted track to the left. Follow this track which soon becomes a footpath as it heads towards Rothley Park Farm.
After a short distance the castle once again comes into view.
The path crosses open land and just before Rothley Park Farm passes through a gate.
Turn left here onto a good track. Almost immediately to your left is a track that leads up to the castle. It is not clear whether this is a right of way or not, but the sign further back indicates that the land has been made accessible to the public.
If you choose to detour to the castle there are fantastic views of the countryside in all directions, particularly north-west to Harwood and Simonside. The castle itself is just a ruin but the remains have been undergoing restoration recently.
On returning back from the castle turn left along the very straight track. This is a pleasant walk back to the road from Morpeth.
When you reach the road turn left and proceed back to Rothley crossroads. Just before you reach the layby an opening to your right provides another fine view towards the castle.
Notes
To see larger photos please visit Northumberland Cam | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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