Walk Report

Last Saturday saw 28 of us on a delightfully varied 16 mile circular walk from Allendale Town. We were lucky with the weather. Black clouds threatened but fortunately passed us by, though the constant rain of recent weeks meant a few muddy tracks. On leaving the Market Square we headed north passing the entrance to the Blackett Level started in 1859 in search of lead ore and through Deneholme Wood, once a pleasure garden being transformed in 1905, heading towards Catton Beacon TP and great if hazy long distance views. Following paths and tracks over styles, across pasture and through rough grass we arrived at the lovely location of Langley Dam. Here we sat on the bank overlooking the lake for our first break. The route took us to within 2 1/2 miles of Haydon Bridge with views overlooking the Tyne before. at Lees Farm, we turned west. Along the walk we followed and crossed rivers - the River Allen and River East Allen - and burns, over beautiful arched bridges or stepping stones, through woodland and plantations across the gently undulating landscape typical of this area. The route turned south through Morralee Woods where we paused overlooking a pool, Morralee Tarn I'm presuming, for our lunch stop - another perfect location. On through Allen Banks and Staward Gorge - the site of a stronghold to withstand those troublesome Scots during the 13-14 centuries, before becoming, in 1384, a place of prayer for hermit brothers from the Priory of Hexham. Here we had a final short break before returning via Oakpool, passing the Country House, formerly a bastle/bastille house affording defence against the border reivers, through Oakpool wood and along the last short section of Isaac's Tea Trail leading into Allendale. Our final stop was a little confused - The Kings Head was on the plan. But they having run out of draught beer, many of us ventured into the Golden Lion to quench out thirst and so to banter about the day and future days. Many thanks Peter for organising and leading a brilliant walk and to all fellow walkers for making it another great and memorable day. (Beryl Massey)

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