Attractions and Places To See around Otterburn - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Otterburn include a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. This picturesque village is situated on the banks of the River Rede within the Cheviot Hills, offering a tranquil rural setting. The area is known for its sweeping moorlands, ancient woodlands, and historical sites, providing opportunities for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Otterburn
- The most popular attractions is Harbottle Lake, a lake that offers fantastic views over serene waters. Visitors are advised to stay on the footpath due to the surrounding bog.
- Another must-see spot is Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, a magnificent waterfall located within a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This area is noted for its rare ferns, lichen, and over 300 types of mosses, liverworts, and lichen.
- Visitors also love The Drake Stone, a large sandstone boulder with a legendary status. It is considered a tranquil spot that offers excellent views.
- Otterburn is known for its natural features, historical sites, and outdoor activities. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from waterfalls and lakes to ancient ruins and monuments.
- The attractions around Otterburn are appreciated by the komoot community, with 108 upvotes and 74 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Hareshaw Linn Waterfall
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Harbottle Lake
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Winter's Gibbet
Highlight • Historical Site
Climb number 61 in the top 100 hills list. It climbs 153m in 3.7km with an average gradient of 4%. Max gradient 10%.
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Ruins of Harbottle Castle
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The Drake Stone
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Tips from the Community
Classic Northumberland road climb, even if it does have a descent in it. Ramp near the start in Elsdon is the hardest bit. Get lucky with a tailwind and fly down eastwards past Harwood Forest
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Here, you are afforded a fantastic view over the serene Harbottle Lake. Please be aware, though, the bog surrounding the lake is dangerous with very deep water underneath it, so make sure you do not stray from the footpath.
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The Drake Stone is a large sandstone boulder that is said to have healing powers and is believed to have been used by druids in their rituals. The stone is about 20 feet tall and weighs 2,000 tonnes. It is said that children who touch the stone are cured of their ailments. The Drake Stone is also said to be haunted. According to legend, a voice once boomed from the stone, warning workers who were attempting to drain the lake nearby that the village would be flooded if they continued. Additionally, those who spend the night near the stone are said to be unable to leave in the morning.
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"The lonely tarn is of considerable area; the water is always pure, there being a spring in the centre. No Diatomes could be detected in the Sphagnum. The depth of water is unknown. It used to be said that the water is so cold, that those who attempt to swim across, receive such a shock, that they are paralysed and sink. There is no recollection, however, of any who have tried the experiment, having been drowned, and several have accomplished the feat. Some will say that the water which has no visible outlet permeates the intermediate strata, and re-appears at Our Lady's Well at Holystone." History of the Berwickshire Naturalists' Club Vol.12 (1887-1889).
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It was built in the 12th century as a wooden motte and bailey castle, but was later rebuilt in stone. The castle was captured by the Scots in 1173-4, before the stonework had even started. The stone castle was probably started soon after, and was captured by Robert the Bruce in 1318. In 1319, Bruce ordered the castle to be dismantled, but it was restored in 1336. Between 1541 and 1551, the western and northern sides of the keep were rebuilt in the present form. Further repairs were made in 1563 and 1585. There were no further repairs to the castle, and it was used as a quarry. It suffered particularly when the new house 'Harbottle Castle' was built in the 17th century.
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Winters Gibbet hill climb from the village of Elsdon up to the viewpoint at Battle Hill. Climb number 61 in the top 100 hills list. It climbs 153m in 3.7km with an average gradient of 4%. Max gradient 10%.
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A nice walk, easy to do from Bellingham.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Otterburn?
Otterburn is surrounded by natural beauty. You can visit the magnificent Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, known for its rare ferns and over 300 types of mosses. Another serene spot is Harbottle Lake, offering fantastic views (though caution is advised due to surrounding bog). The Redesdale Valley and Northumberland National Park also provide sweeping moorlands and hills for exploration. Don't miss The Drake Stone, a large sandstone boulder with legendary status and excellent views.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near Otterburn?
Yes, Otterburn is rich in history. You can explore the historic Otterburn Mill, which now houses a retail outlet, cafe, and museum detailing the area's weaving history. The Percy Cross commemorates the Battle of Otterburn, and the Victorian-era St John the Evangelist's Church is also in the village. Nearby, you'll find the Ruins of Harbottle Castle, a medieval site overlooking the River Coquet, and Winter's Gibbet, a replica gibbet with a fascinating, albeit grim, history and panoramic views.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Otterburn's attractions?
The area around Otterburn is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy walks like the Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Walk or loops around The Drake Stone & Harbottle Lake. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes and challenging MTB trails through the Cheviot Hills. The Redesdale Valley and Northumberland National Park offer extensive opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Otterburn?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The walk to Hareshaw Linn Waterfall is considered family-friendly with well-surfaced paths and beautiful scenery. Kielder Water & Forest Park, about 10 miles away, offers a variety of family activities, wildlife watching, and dark skies. Northumberland Zoo, a short distance away, is home to over 80 species and provides keeper talks.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near Otterburn?
For easy hikes, consider the Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Walk, which starts near Bellingham and leads to a magnificent waterfall. Another option is the loop around The Drake Stone and Harbottle Lake, offering scenic views. The village of Elsdon also has an easy village loop within Northumberland National Park.
What is special about Hareshaw Linn Waterfall?
Hareshaw Linn Waterfall is a magnificent natural monument located within a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It's renowned for its ecological diversity, boasting rare ferns, lichen, and over 300 different types of mosses, liverworts, and lichen. The area is also a habitat for wildlife such as red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers, and badgers.
What should I know about visiting Harbottle Lake and The Drake Stone?
Harbottle Lake offers fantastic views, but visitors should be aware that the bog surrounding it can be dangerous with very deep water underneath, so it's crucial to stay on marked footpaths. Nearby, The Drake Stone is a large sandstone boulder with a legendary status, rumored to have healing powers and offering excellent tranquil views.
Are there any castles or ancient ruins to visit?
Yes, you can visit the Ruins of Harbottle Castle, a medieval site constructed around 1160, which offers a glimpse into the region's past and overlooks the village of Harbottle. Additionally, the Shittleheugh Bastle, located in Redesdale, provides a reminder of the area's tumultuous border conflicts.
What is the significance of Winter's Gibbet?
Winter's Gibbet marks the historical hanging place of William Winter, who committed murder in 1791. The current structure is a replica built nearly a century later. It stands on Battle Hill, offering fantastic views and is a notable landmark for those interested in local folklore and history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Otterburn?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The serene waters of Harbottle Lake and the magnificent Hareshaw Linn Waterfall are highly rated for their scenic beauty. The legendary status and excellent views from The Drake Stone also make it a popular tranquil spot. The area's rich history, from ancient castles to unique landmarks, also draws significant interest.
Can I find cycling routes around Otterburn?
Absolutely. Otterburn is a great base for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes, including challenging rides like the loop from Otterburn to Rothbury Bridge. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are MTB trails such as the Usway Burn Trail & Windy Gyle loop, offering diverse terrain through Northumberland National Park.
Are there any cultural points of interest nearby, beyond Otterburn itself?
Yes, a short distance from Otterburn, you can visit Elsdon Village, which offers a glimpse into traditional Northumbrian life with its ancient motte-and-bailey castle and medieval church. Corbridge, another historic town, boasts a significant Roman heritage, including the Corbridge Roman Town and its museum, along with independent shops and cafes.
Most popular attractions around Otterburn
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