Allen Banks - Staward Peel Circular

Julia Ewart

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Our walk takes us through the wooded gorge of the River Allen, where the valley is the most northerly home to the rare dormouse. Crossing a suspension bridge we visit Plankey Mill, a popular picnic area on a sunny day, that once harnessed the power of the river, then onto Staward Peel where the ruins of a medieval gatehouse and pele tower stand high above the river, commanding magnificent views. Leaving the woodland behind we cross pastureland, where if lucky the old horse-drawn plough can still be seen in action, before dropping back down to the riverbank path. Through further woodland and nature reserve we cross another suspension bridge to return to the picnic area from where we started.

England - North England - Northumberland - Woodland or Forest

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Flowers, Good for Kids, Great Views, National Trust, River, Toilets, Wildlife, Woodland

4/7/2023 - Andrew Bradbury

We tried to do this walk last week. Both the suspension bridges have gone completely but the one near Plankey Mill has been replaced with a fixed bridge. Also, the bridge at Harsondale, presumably between waymarks 6 and 7, is closed awaiting repairs. However, it is a good area for walking with plenty of paths.

1/12/2016 - Julia Ewart

The new Suspension bridge has been washed away due to extreme flooding and the whole area is currently closed by the National Trust as the riverbank areas are unsafe.

10/14/2015 - Pat McTiernan

The suspension bridge has now been completed enabling the return on the opposite side of the river complimenting an excellent walk. Remember that cattle and sheep graze on the high ground so be careful with dogs.

10/10/2013 - Pat McTiernan

This must be one of the most beautiful places in Northumberland. All of the pathways are clearly marked so it is easy to follow. One major problem!! The suspension bridge has been condemned due to flood damage; it will be closed off until funding can be sought. There are no safe crossing places anywhere near so the return should be made via the bridge at ‘Plankey Mill’. Big shame!

6/28/2009 - Shaun McKittrick

Nice walk which runs mostly alongside the river. Easy to follow directions though we picked up a free guide to the area in a leaflet box at the start of the walk which had a map showing all the paths in better details than the OS Map attached. Handy to have. Enjoyable walk if a little muddy in places. Suspension bridge is lovely.

12/3/2008 - Walkingworld Administrator

Please remember to print and take the WW map with you everytime. It's a proper OS map and every waymark is pinpointed so you can see exactly the distances between each one.

12/3/2008 - Alison Dodds

Did this walk end of november in freezing conditions. Great walk just couple of comments: directions bit unclear in places and distances not given so got lost couple of times. Also, time to complete advised 150 mins, took us 240mins! We in thirties, early forties and went at reasonable pace so bear in mind.