Alwinton provides the base for an exploration of the moors, hills and valleys of Upper Coquetdale. The views are far reaching but I most enjoyed the walk alongside Usway Burn, hemmed in by the steep slopes on either side.
There is nothing I enjoy more than planning a walk through an unexplored landscape. Alwinton & the Upper Coquetdale provided the opportunity. Alwinton is an attractive smally village with an excellent pub, one for later! I headed north up the intriguingly named Clennell Street. Clennell Street is an ancient drovers road which offered me easy access in to the moors beyond. The walking was straightforward and the views good. A short section of forestry followed before I headed towards the Castles.
The Castles is a small, perfectly formed hillock with great views, clearly an ancient stronghold keeping out those pesky Scots. A steep descent dropped me in to the steep side valley of Usway Burn and a 2 mile walk alongside the river. It is quite a dramatic site, particularly when the river is high. The return to Alwinton is across the hillside below the trig point of Hill Side (worth a visit if you have the energy).
The red flags on the south of the Coquet refer to the army controlled land, probably not best to venture in there and getting shot! However this walk avoids the area.
On reaching the farm at Shillmoor there is still 3 miles to go. There is an option to just follow the road all the way back to Alwinton. However the better route is via the bridlepath high above the River Coquet. Tiredness later on a walk is always useful though and at times it is easier just to plod along the road. Great to plan options for any walks as circumstances often change.
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