Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
www.visitkielder.com
TO KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK
Your Greater Outdoors
KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK
Welcome to the greater outdoors. Crowned England’s number one visitor experience (Visit England 2013), Kielder Water & Forest Park brings you nature on a grander scale.
We’re home to the biggest man-made lake in northern Europe, the largest working forest in England and became Northumberland International Dark Sky Park in 2014, Europe’s largest expanse of protected night sky.
At over 250 square miles, if you haven’t been before, the best way to explore the Park is to start at one of our three main visitor centres (Tower Knowe, Leaplish and Kielder Castle).
In this guide you’ll find out what there is to do and where to go to do it. Don’t forget, visitor centre staff have great local knowledge and are on hand to help with any questions. More detailed information can be found online at www.visitkielder.com.
Enjoy your greater outdoors!
2
Contents 04 Tower Knowe Visitor Centre
06 Leaplish Waterside Park
08 Kielder Castle Visitor Centre
10 Calvert Trust Kielder
12 Kielder in Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
13 Kielder Observatory
14 Kielder Dark Sky Discovery Sites
15 Walking, cycling and horse riding
16 The Lakeside Way
17 Mountain biking
18 Map of the Park
20 Villages in Kielder Water & Forest Park
22 Best views
23 Art & Architecture
26 Wildlife and nature
28 Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre
29 Kielder Salmon Centre
30 On the water
31 Fishing
32 Adventure, activities and events
33 Places to eat
34 Where to stay
35 Travel information 3
Contents 04 Tower Knowe Visitor Centre
06 Leaplish Waterside Park
08 Kielder Castle Visitor Centre
10 Calvert Trust Kielder
12 Kielder in Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
13 Kielder Observatory
14 Kielder Dark Sky Discovery Sites
15 Walking, cycling and horse riding
16 The Lakeside Way
17 Mountain biking
18 Map of the Park
20 Villages in Kielder Water & Forest Park
22 Best views
23 Art & Architecture
26 Wildlife and nature
28 Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre
29 Kielder Salmon Centre
30 On the water
31 Fishing
32 Adventure, activities and events
33 Places to eat
34 Where to stay
35 Travel information
Tower Knowe Visitor CentreBest for: Finding out what there is to do.
A great place to discover the area’s rich history - check out the interactive exhibition in the Explore Centre. It’s also a good way to find out what you can do and where.
Come here to: • Have coffee or lunch at Café on the water. • Visit the Explore Centre. • Take in beautiful views over Kielder Water. • Start a walk or bike ride along the Lakeside Way. • Board the Osprey ferry (subject to pre-booking and timetable, which can be downloaded from www.visitkielder.com). • Buy a fishing starter pack.• Shop for souvenirs, fishing tackle and outdoor wear.• Walk to Kielder Dam or Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve at Falstone Moss. • Visit Kielder Water Sailing Club (new members welcome).
Facilities include:Parking, W/C, disabled access
Opening times:April, May, June and September - 10am to 5pm July and August - 10am to 6pm October - 10am to 4pm
NE48 1BX 01434 251 000
4
5
Leaplish Waterside Park
Best for: Families.
With panoramic views of the reservoir, this is the ideal base to recharge and refresh or take part in an action packed day of activities. Facilities are open to both day visitors and staying guests.
Come here to: • Have coffee, lunch, an alcoholic beverage or an evening meal at the Boat Inn restaurant & bar. • Go to the Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre (p28).• Enjoy Go Active activities including fencing, Sea Scooters, Water Walkerz, archery, crossbow and more (pre-booking essential).• Board the Osprey ferry (subject to pre-booking and timetable - the timetable can be downloaded from www.visitkielder.com). • Start a walk or bike ride along the Lakeside Way. • Unwind in the sauna or swim in the heated indoor pool (pre booking required).• Play miniature golf or try out the children’s play area.• Visit the red squirrel hide. • Shop for souvenirs. • Hire pleasure boats (seasonal). • Hire fishing boats (pre-booking essential).• Purchase fishing permits and get up to date information.• Stay in a luxury lodge as part of a Go Active break.• Keep your eyes peeled for some of the Kielder Super Six – ospreys (seasonal), red squirrels and salmon. See p26 for details about the Super Six.
Facilities include:Luxury four and five star self catering lodges, 90 pitch caravan site for motor homes and touring caravans, parking, W/C, disabled access
Opening times:Facilities vary, please telephone to check
Visitor information: February half term to October - 8am to 6pm daily November and December - limited opening, please telephone to checkCaravan site: April to October. February to March and November to December- limited opening, please telephone to check
Boat Inn restaurant & bar:February, March and November – seasonal opening hours occur; please telephone for informationApril to October – open every day from 11am (for evening meals booking is advisable, please telephone for details or check the website)
NE48 1BT 01434 251 0006
7
Kielder Castle Visitor CentreBest for: Cycling, mountain biking and forest activities.
Formerly the hunting lodge for the Duke of Northumberland, the castle is now home to a variety of exhibitions. It is also the centre for cycling within the Park.
Come here to: • Test your mountain biking skills or start a singletrack trail (buy mtb trail maps here too). • Hire, repair or purchase bicycles. • Enjoy light snacks and hearty warming meals at Kielder Castle Café. • Enjoy the Minotaur Maze and children’s play area. • Drive along the longest forest drive in the UK (toll road). • Start a walk or bike ride along the Lakeside Way. • Discover the lifecycle of the salmon at the Kielder Salmon Centre (p29). • Visit the red squirrel room and great viewing hide. • Get FREE entry to the Forest Exhibition.• Keep your eyes peeled for some of the Kielder Super Six – red squirrels, pipistrelle bats and roe deer (on the Forest Drive). See p26 for details about the Super Six.
Facilities include:Parking, W/C, disabled access, bike hire (nearby)
Opening times:Kielder Castle and CaféMarch to October - 9.30am to 5pm daily(Free exhibition) open 9.30am to 4.30pm
November to February - 11am to 4pm daily(Free exhibition) open 11am to 3.30pm
School holidays and bank holidays - 9am to 5.30pm
Forest Drive1 May to 20 December
NE48 1ER 01434 250 209
Forestry Commission Ranger Service: 01434 250 209For information about Kielder Castle Cafe and to check winter opening times go to www.dukespantry.co.uk or call 01434 250 100
8
9
Calvert Trust KielderBest for: Activity drop in days.
Calvert Trust Kielder provides outdoor activities for people of all abilities. Activity drop in days are available throughout the year and offer a perfect opportunity for you to try something new. Alternatively you can book in for a full or half day session.
Come and try: • Zip wire or the King Swing.• Indoor and outdoor climbing walls.• Canoeing, sailing or motor boating.• High and low ropes course.• Orienteering and archery.• Laser clay shooting.• Or why not relax in the hydrotherapy pool, infra red sauna and sensory room?
Facilities include: Luxury self-catering lodges including The Straker Chalet, Sky Den Tree House, bed and breakfast available and disabled access
Opening times:Open daily from 9am (except Christmas day, Boxing day and New Year’s day)
NE48 1BS 01434 250 232
10
11
Here at Kielder Water & Forest Park we have the largest expanse of protected night sky in the whole of Europe.
Together with Northumberland National Park, nearly 580 square-miles of star-studded sky boasts Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park status, awarded by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) based in Tucson, USA. This means that we enjoy an ultra-dark location thanks to minimal light pollution and are committed to keeping the skies dark by encouraging better lighting and creating more opportunities for people to be inspired by the stars.
The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is the first of its kind in England and one of the largest in the world, joining the likes of Death Valley and Big Bend Dark Sky Parks in the USA. Since the news of our Dark Sky Park status, local businesses have been working to develop astro-tourism activities and Dark Sky Discovery Sites. (p14)
It’s not just stargazers who benefit from the reduced light pollution, Kielder Water & Forest Park is abundant with a variety of wildlife. The dark skies can enhance the habitat for some of the Kielder Super Six and many of our woodland species (p26).
Kielder in Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
12
All year round – a stargazing and astronomy heaven! Kielder observatory is located in the heart of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.
Winter nights are darkest and best for viewing deep sky objects such as galaxies while in summer you can view the beautiful Milky Way, passing comets, shooting stars and see the Sun’s surface using the incredible solar telescope.
Come here to: • Learn about the night sky and use the powerful telescopes.• Meet experienced astronomers and learn how to take stunning photographs of distant objects in the Universe.• Experience meteor showers (shooting stars) and other celestial events. Book onto an event to enjoy the full Observatory experience and use the large telescopes supervised by astronomers from Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society (KOAS). Those wishing to enjoy the panoramic views from the Observatory during the day (when the facility is closed) can park in the car park for Skyspace and walk up the hill (50 minutes).
KOAS hosts events all year round from open days and interactive shows to observing nights and lectures. To book an event go to www.kielderobservatory.org and click on the event calendar or ask in a visitor centre when the next event is.
www.kielderobservatory.org NE48 1ER 07805 638 469
Kielder Observatory
13
It is estimated that 85% of the UK population has never seen a truly dark sky. Here at Kielder, you will be amazed by the number of stars you will be able to see on a clear night thanks to minimal light pollution in Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. In addition to the Kielder Observatory (p13), we are actively identifying and enhancing outdoor sites suitable for stargazing.
These sites are called Dark Sky Discovery Sites and have been chosen because of their proximity to facilities such as toilets and accommodation. If you want to get out and discover for yourself the beauty of the night sky, here is a selection of top sites to stargaze from in Kielder Water & Forest Park.
They all have a Sky Quality Meter Reading (SQM) above 20 which indicates a very high level of darkness.
Please remember to be courteous to others living in the area, especially late at night when people maybe asleep nearby.
The best time for stargazing is during the autumn and winter months, when the nights draw in. You don’t need an expensive telescope. Just pack up a pair of binoculars, a deckchair, take a hot drink and sit back and enjoy a star-studded show.
Kielder Dark Sky Discovery Sites
KIELDER CAMPSITELocation: 500 yards on the right after Kielder village station garage 24 hour car park24 hour toilets
LEAPLISH WATERSIDE PARK Location: Ski club car park, first car park 500-600m on exit road from Leaplish Waterside Park24 hour car park24 hour toilets (Leaplish Waterside Park)
ELF KIRK VIEW POINT Location: Off the C200 after Tower Knowe Grid Reference: 695 861 Car Park The Pheasant (Falstone) 3.5km
BYRNESS VILLAGE Location: First right off the A68 at Byrness Car Park / Lay By Post Code: NE19 1TS Forest View Walkers Inn (200m)
STONEHAUGH Location: Off the Hexham to Bellingham Road, south of Wark Lay-By
14
19
Walking, cycling and horseriding With over 600 square kilometres of forest and 26 miles of shoreline to choose from, there’s a trail for everyone.
Choose from: • challenging long distance trails (such as completing the Lakeside Way in one go), • leisurely family strolls (why not start from one of the visitor centres?),• or an extensive network of off-road tracks.
To discover the right trail for you, purchase a copy of the Trails Guide in any visitor centre or download it free from www.visitk-ielder.com.
Horse riders can bring their own horses. Riding is permitted on all forest roads. For up to date trail information contact the Forestry Commision on 01434 220 242.
Cragside Stables is a horse riding school and equestrian centre near Bardon Mill, Hexham, Northumberland, NE47 7JR, offering horse riding lessons suitable for children. Riders are required to provide their ages, heights and riding history in order to match up ponies and requirements - 01434 344 065.
15
The Lakeside WayT
he L
akes
ide
Way
A
gre
at w
ay to
exp
erie
nce
the
Park
is fr
om th
e tr
ail t
hat f
ollo
ws
the
26 m
ile s
hore
line
of K
ield
er W
ater
. Hire
a b
ike,
wal
k or
brin
g yo
ur
hors
e. D
o a
sect
ion
and
use
the
ferr
y fo
r yo
ur r
etur
n jo
urne
y (d
on’t
forg
et to
che
ck ti
met
able
s an
d pu
rcha
se ti
cket
s fir
st) o
r co
mpl
ete
the
who
le 2
6 m
iles.
Whi
chev
er w
ay y
ou c
hoos
e to
trav
el th
e La
kesid
e W
ay, t
his
hand
y gu
ide
belo
w c
an te
ll yo
u th
e di
stan
ce b
efor
e yo
u se
t off.
The
map
on
page
18
show
s th
e lo
catio
ns.
* D
istan
ce c
an b
e re
duce
d by
1½
mile
s by
taki
ng th
e Bu
ll C
rag
shor
tcut
.N
/S N
orth
Sho
re r
oute
(Dam
↔ K
ield
er C
astle
).T
he a
vera
ge p
erso
n w
alks
non
sto
p at
aro
und
2 ½
mile
s pe
r ho
ur.
Dist
ance
s are
in m
iles
Wav
e C
ham
ber
Belve
dere
K
ield
er C
astle
D
am
55/0
2 Jan
us C
hairs
Le
aplis
h
Mira
ge D
eck
Silva
s Cap
italis
To
wer
Kno
we
Kie
lder
Viad
uct
Wav
e C
ham
ber
2
¾
10
1 1
½
5 ½
10
¾ *
12
¼
7 2
½
9Be
lvede
re
2 ¾
7 ½
3
¾
1 ¼
3
13 *
9
½
5 ½
5
¼
6 ½
Kie
lder
Cas
tle
10
7 ½
11 N
/S
8 ¾
4
½
5 ¾
2
¼
3 13
½ *
1
Dam
1
3 ¾
11
N/S
2 ½
6
¾
8 ½
*
12 *
9
¼
¾
10 N
/S
55/0
2 1
½
1 ¼
8
¾
2 ½
4 11
¾ *
11
6
¾
4 7
¾Jan
us C
hairs
5
½
3 4
½
6 ¾
4
10
¼
6 ¾
1
½
8 ¼
3
½Le
aplis
h
10 ¼
*
13 *
5
¾
8 ½
*
11 ¾
*
10 ¼
3 ½
8
¾
7 ¾
*
4 ¾
M
irage
Dec
k 12
¼ *
9
½ *
2
¼
12 *
11
6
¾
3 ½
5 ¼
11
¼ *
1
¼
Silva
s Cap
italis
7
5
½
3 9
¼
6 ¾
1
½
8 ¾
*
5 ¼
10 ¾
2
Tow
er K
now
e 2
½
5 ¼
13
½ *
¾
4
8 ¼
7
¾ *
11
¼ *
10
12 ½
9
6 ½
1
10 N
/S
7 ¾
3
½
4 ¾
1
¼
2 12
½
16
Kie
lder
Viad
uct
Mountain biking
17
This rugged wilderness is mountain biking (mtb) heaven. Head to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre where England’s largest network of mtb trails start. The Castlewood skills loop gives you a taste of what the different grades of trails are like. There is everything from family friendly trails to hardcore singletrack trails including the epic cross border trail into Scotland to Newcastleton, one of the 7 Stanes mtb centres:
• Green trails such as Borderline are easy - they are suitable for beginner and novice cyclists. • Blue trails such as The Osprey are moderate - they are suitable for intermediate cyclists and mountain bikers. • Red trails such as Lonesome Pine, Bloody Bush and Deadwater red are difficult - they are suitable for proficient mountain bikers. • Black trails such as Deadwater black are severe - they are suitable only for expert mountain bikers.
Detailed mountain biking routes can be downloaded from the mountain bike page on www.visitkielder.com or pop into Kielder Castle Visitor Centre to purchase a copy.
Bike hire is available from Kielder Cycle Centre at Kielder Village near the castle. The Cycle Centre offers cycle hire, cycle sales and accessories. They’re open from 9.30am until 5.30am seven days a week in summer (April – November). Winter opening hours are from 9.30am until dusk, Friday to Tuesday and closed Wednesdays and Thursdays (unless there are pre-paid bookings). Call 01434 250 457.
P P
P
WC
l
l
KielderViaductCar ParkP
Bird HideCar Park
P
KIELDER CASTLE VISITOR CENTRE
P WC
Kielder Salmon Centre
Minotaur Maze
CALVERT TRUST
LEAPLISH WATERSIDE PARK
P WC
Mapping Minigolf
Hawkhurst ScoutActivity Centre
TO NEWCASTLETONBYRNESS AND JEDBURGH
Kielder Birds of Prey Centre
Observatory
P P
P
WC
l
l
KielderViaductCar ParkP
Bird HideCar Park
P
KIELDER CASTLE VISITOR CENTRE
P WC
Kielder Salmon Centre
Minotaur Maze
CALVERT TRUST KIELDER
LEAPLISH WATERSIDE PARK
P WC
Mapping Minigolf
Hawkhurst ScoutActivity Centre
TO NEWCASTLETONBYRNESS AND JEDBURGH
Kielder Birds of Prey Centre
Observatory
Map of the Park
©Ashworth Maps & Interpretation Ltd 2009. This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permisssion of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Staionery Office © Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Forestry Commission 100025498. This map cannot be used for any purpose without the express permission of Kielder Partnership.
0
0 1 mile
1 2 kilometres
18
P
P
P WC
l TOWER KNOWEVISITOR CENTRE
WCP
CALVERT TRUST KIELDER
Mapping Minigolf
Hawkhurst ScoutActivity Centre
TO BELLINGHAMAND STONEHAUGH
City of NewcastleOutdoor Centre
Hawkhope
Yarrowmoor
HighHawkhope
Smalesmouth
SalmonCubes
P
P
P WC
l TOWER KNOWEVISITOR CENTRE
WCP
TO BELLINGHAMAND STONEHAUGH
City of NewcastleOutdoor Centre
Hawkhope
Yarrowmoor
HighHawkhope
Smalesmouth
SalmonCubes
THE PARK IS 250 SQUARE MILES IN TOTAL, SO IT IS A GOOD IDEA TO USE THIS MAP TO ORIENTATE YOURSELF ON ARRIVAL. ALTERNATIVELY, VISIT ONE OF THE VISITOR CENTRES ONSITE.
19
Minor roadOther roadOther trackLakeside WayNational border
Art and architecture
Viewpoint
Youth hostel
Osprey Ferry
Car park
Toilets
Information
Dark Sky Discovery Site
Best views
Restaurant / cafe
Shop
Accommodation
Campsite
Play area
Cycle hire
Mountain biking
Fishing
Water skiing
Sailing
Wildlife hide
WC
P
KEY
P
20
There are four villages within or on the boundaries of Kielder Water & Forest Park: Kielder, Byrness, Stonehaugh and Falstone. They will offer a warm welcome, local advice and have a range of services and activities which you can enjoy during your visit.
The villages were predominantly purpose-built by the Forestry Commission between 1940 and 1960 to house forest workers, although the modern population is more diverse.
KielderClose to the Scottish border and situated in the west of Kielder Water & Forest Park, Kielder village (part of map on p18) is home to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre (p8) with a café, the Anglers Arms pub, a petrol station, Kielder Village shop with cash facility and post office, and Kielder Cycle Centre for bike hire. There is also various accommodation for those wishing to stay in the area, from the 4* Youth Hostel to Kielder Campsite and Twenty Seven B&B. The Kielder Salmon Centre (p29) is near Kielder Castle and this is also where some of England’s largest network of mountain biking trails start (p17). Access to the Forest Drive is available here, a spectacular 12 miles drive along a scenic, unsealed forest road. The Forest Drive is open in summer and winter and connects Kielder village with the A68 road near Byrness.
Byrness
Villages in Kielder Water& Forest Park
This small community lies on the north-west edge of Kielder Water & Forest Park, only 5 miles (8 km) from the Scottish border at Carter Bar. The history of Byrness is in many respects a story of two villages; firstly, a hamlet clustered beside the late 18th century church, and secondly the Forestry Commission village no more than 60 years old. The Pennine Way, one of the most demanding long-distance walks in Britain passes through the village. You can eat and stay at Foresters Restaurant and Bar at the Forest View Inn or The Byrness Hotel.
Stonehaugh
The village of Stonehaugh lies in the south-east corner of Kielder Water & Forest Park, about 5 miles (8 km) west of Wark. There are about 30 houses and a campsite in this small village. The sole community facility; the modern Community Hall provides a focal point for village life. It includes a bar and even serves breakfast on Sunday mornings. The Warksburn Trail with its distinctive totem poles starts just outside the village.
FalstoneJust a short distance south of Kielder Water dam is the village of Falstone (part of map on p19). The main settlement of Falstone is centred around the Church of St Peter, with later houses added by the Forestry Commission to the north. Within the village there is a tea room based in the old Victorian School. Those wishing to stay in the area can do so at the Blackcock Country Inn or the Falstone Barns and PoSHHuts, as well as a number of self catering properties. On the outskirts of Falstone, you can eat or stay at the Pheasant Inn. Every summer, the Falstone Border Shepherds Show attracts people from the whole of the upper North Tyne area. This traditional village event has been running for over 100 years.
Byrness
REDESDALE FOREST
Three Kings Stone Circle
Forest Drive
Penine Way
Warksburn walk
21
There are four villages within or on the boundaries of Kielder Water & Forest Park: Kielder, Byrness, Stonehaugh and Falstone. They will offer a warm welcome, local advice and have a range of services and activities which you can enjoy during your visit.
The villages were predominantly purpose-built by the Forestry Commission between 1940 and 1960 to house forest workers, although the modern population is more diverse.
KielderClose to the Scottish border and situated in the west of Kielder Water & Forest Park, Kielder village (part of map on p18) is home to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre (p8) with a café, the Anglers Arms pub, a petrol station, Kielder Village shop with cash facility and post office, and Kielder Cycle Centre for bike hire. There is also various accommodation for those wishing to stay in the area, from the 4* Youth Hostel to Kielder Campsite and Twenty Seven B&B. The Kielder Salmon Centre (p29) is near Kielder Castle and this is also where some of England’s largest network of mountain biking trails start (p17). Access to the Forest Drive is available here, a spectacular 12 miles drive along a scenic, unsealed forest road. The Forest Drive is open in summer and winter and connects Kielder village with the A68 road near Byrness.
Byrness
This small community lies on the north-west edge of Kielder Water & Forest Park, only 5 miles (8 km) from the Scottish border at Carter Bar. The history of Byrness is in many respects a story of two villages; firstly, a hamlet clustered beside the late 18th century church, and secondly the Forestry Commission village no more than 60 years old. The Pennine Way, one of the most demanding long-distance walks in Britain passes through the village. You can eat and stay at Foresters Restaurant and Bar at the Forest View Inn or The Byrness Hotel.
Stonehaugh
The village of Stonehaugh lies in the south-east corner of Kielder Water & Forest Park, about 5 miles (8 km) west of Wark. There are about 30 houses and a campsite in this small village. The sole community facility; the modern Community Hall provides a focal point for village life. It includes a bar and even serves breakfast on Sunday mornings. The Warksburn Trail with its distinctive totem poles starts just outside the village.
FalstoneJust a short distance south of Kielder Water dam is the village of Falstone (part of map on p19). The main settlement of Falstone is centred around the Church of St Peter, with later houses added by the Forestry Commission to the north. Within the village there is a tea room based in the old Victorian School. Those wishing to stay in the area can do so at the Blackcock Country Inn or the Falstone Barns and PoSHHuts, as well as a number of self catering properties. On the outskirts of Falstone, you can eat or stay at the Pheasant Inn. Every summer, the Falstone Border Shepherds Show attracts people from the whole of the upper North Tyne area. This traditional village event has been running for over 100 years.
P P
P
WCWC
Campsite
Stonehaugh
Ford
Waterfall
Play area
Community HallSee notice board for
opening times
4 cars
To the Long Drop ½ mile / 0.8km
Totempoles
StonehaughStar Gazing
Pavilion
CrookbankKern
Old SchoolHouse
Best views
You’ll see gorgeous scenery everywhere you go but here are some hidden treasures away from the main visitor centres. Don’t forget the Park is 250 square miles in total so plan how long it will take to get there and back.
• Elfkirk (NY 694861) - a beautiful view over Whickhope inlet and the dam. • Patterson’s Pause at Lewisburn Inlet (NY 642902) - a beautiful, secluded valley with unique suspension bridge. • Hindhope Linn waterfall (NY 783999) - a memorable waterfall, gorge and scenery. Please note this walk starts 12 miles north east of Kielder Castle on the Forest Drive toll road at the Blakehopeburnhaugh picnic site. • Bakethin Weir (NY 643911) - a Northumberland Wildlife Trust conservation area for local plants, birds and other wildlife including otters, one of the Kielder Super Six (see p26). • Lakeside view car park (NY 707871) - your first view of Kielder Water will always be one to remember. • Otterstone viewpoint (NY 675873) - a beautiful place to stop and admire the view, off the Lakeside Way.• Kielder Viaduct (NY 632924) - it was fortunately preserved when the valley and railway line were flooded when Kielder Water was built. The Lakeside Way route crosses over the viaduct.• Hareshaw Linn walk at Bellingham (NY 845855) - a stunning 2.5 mile walk through countryside, passing the remains of an old ironworks and ends at a magnificent 30 feet waterfall. Map references relate to OS Explorer Map OL42.
22
23
Kielder Water & Forest Park is home to a unique collection of visual artworks and thanks to our long running, award winning Art and Architecture programme, it has become the largest open air space in the UK to experience art and architecture.
Many pieces are fully accessible to visitors and along the Lakeside Way (P16); there is the opportunity to explore some of the contemporary work including the futuristic Belvedere shelter, the three large rotating Janus Chairs and Silvas Capitalis, also known as the ‘giant forest head’!
Located at sites around the lake and within the forest, this vibrant collection of art and architecture will surprise and intrigue you. The map on pages18 and 19 shows where the art works are. Purchase a copy of the Trails Guide from any visitor centre or download it from www.visitkielder.com to find out how to get there and make the most of your experience.
See pages 24 and 25 for images of the art. Detailed information on each one is also available on the website.
The Kielder Art & Architecture programme has been running since 1995. Since then, more than 37 permanent and temporary works have been commissioned.
Commissions have won many national architectural awards including the Stephen Lawrence Prize, four RIBA Awards, three Civic Trust Awards and the Northern Culture Award for ‘Best Use of Public Open Space’. In 2009 Kielder Art & Architecture was also honoured with one of RIBA's Client of the Year Awards.
The programme also hosts a growing number of art and architecture events and workshops within the inspirational setting. See www.visitkielder.com for events listings.
Art and Architecture
In the area of, or on the north shore:
Specere - Adjaye Associates
Robin's Hut - Studio Weave
Minotaur -Nick Coombe and Shona Kitchen
Belvedere - Softroom Architects
Silvas Capitalis - SIMPARCH
55-02 - Sixteen* (makers)
Wave Chamber - Chris Drury
Viewpoints - Tania Kovats
Janus Chairs - Ryder Architecture
Salmon Cubes - Xsite Architecture24
Source of the North Tyne marker- Gilbert Ward
In the area of, or on the south shore:
Stell - Colin Wilbourn
Kielder Keepsake - Nicola Moss
Shadow - Julia Barton
Freya’s Cabin - Studio Weave
Play Garden - Zone Architects
Mapping minigolf - Wolfgang Weileder
Kielder Column - John Maine
Mirage deck - Kisa Kawakami
Cat Cairn: the Kielder Skyspace - James Turrell
Kielder Observatory - Charles Barclay Architects
25
Artist impression ofStargazing Pavilion -Newcastle University
Wildlife and natureW
hat
to s
ee a
nd w
hen
Ja
n Fe
b M
ar
Apr
M
ay
Jun
Jul
Aug
Se
p O
ct
Nov
D
ec
Gos
haw
ks
Osp
reys
Bats
Roe
dee
r
Orc
hids
Mea
dow
flow
ers
Fung
i
Ott
ers
Red
squ
irre
ls
Badg
ers
= K
ield
er S
uper
Six
26
27
Where to see it
Explorers can expect to find a host of wildlife throughout the whole Park living in the marshy grasslands, bogs and woodland.
The Kielder Super Six are the top six species most people are really keen to see. They are; ospreys, red squirrels, pipistrelle bats, roe deer, salmon and otters. Ask in a visitor centre where you will be most likely to spot one of the Kielder Super Six.
Look out for adders, butterflies, stoats, rabbits and amphibians at the wildlife garden at Leaplish Waterside Park. Learn about the life cycle of the salmon at Kielder Salmon Centre (p29). Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre is open all year round (p28).
In 2009 it was the first time on record that ospreys had recolonised naturally in Northumberland. To our delight, they continue to return and successfully breed every year. We have two breeding pairs and in 2013 we had four chicks successfully fledge – a record number since 2009.
For the most up to date news and if you would like to learn more about our ospreys, check the Kielder osprey blog online at www.visitkielder.com.
We’re home to the last remaining stronghold of red squirrels - see them from the hides at Leaplish and Kielder Castle.
Ask about wildlife events in our visitor centres, such as Kielder Osprey Watch, or check online at www.visitkielder.com for upcoming events.
Kielder Water Birds of Prey CentreThe centre cares for a whole host of birds including owls, falcons and vultures as well as fallow deer and wallabies.
Come here to: • See a flying demonstration and have a chance to interact with the birds of prey (daily at 1.30pm and 3pm during summer and at 2pm in winter - weather permitting). • Visit the petting zoo. • Learn about conservation and care of the birds. • Enjoy a school visit. • Book a hawk walk, falconry day course or photography day. • Feed two of the largest flying birds in the world - a pair of great white pelicans. • Meet Sima, a white tailed sea eagle (the largest in England).
Facilities include: Parking, W/C, disabled access
Opening times:Open daily from 10.30am (except Christmas Day)(November and December - Monday to Friday only during KielderWinter Wonderland event)
NE48 1AX 01434 250 400
28
N
W E
0
0 1 mile
1 2 kilometres
N
W E
0
0 1 mile
1 2 kilometres
Kielder Salmon Centre
This is the largest conservation hatchery in England and Wales where the Environment Agency grows fish to stock rivers and lakes in the north of England. Up to 900,000 salmon are successfully bred here each year.
Come here to: • Drop into the hatchery’s new visitor centre (free entry). • Discover the fascinating life cycle of the salmon, one of the Kielder Super Six (see p26 for details about the Super Six).• See how the fresh water pearl mussel breeding beds help save one of the UK’s most endangered species. • Groups of four or more people can experience a behind the scenes tour and meet the people who carry out the vital conservation work (booking required). • Enjoy a school visit.
Facilities include: Disabled parking on site (and parking at Kielder Castle Visitor Centre nearby), disabled access
Opening times:1 April to 30 September - 10am to 4pm
NE48 1HX 01434 250 269 29
A great way to experience northern Europe’s largest man-made lake is by taking a trip on the Osprey ferry. Tickets must be purchased from Leaplish Waterside Park or Tower Knowe Visitor Centre (01434 251 000). Please note, the ferry is subject to availability and timetable.
Water activities, such as canoeing, sailing or water skiing, are provided (seasonally) by professional clubs and Calvert Trust Kielder (p10). Please contact them direct to pre-book your activity (all contact details are on www.visitkielder.com).
If you wish to bring your own equipment, there are rules and regulations that must be adhered to - you can download them from www.visitkielder.com or ask at one of the visitor centres. Please note, there is no rescue craft on the water.
On the water
30
Fishing
If you’re new to fishing: • Head to Tower Knowe or Leaplish visitor centres where you can pick up the required permits or buy a fishing starter pack. • Go to www.nwl.co.uk/gofishing for all the information you’ll need and also for weekly fishing reports. • Tokens are required to fish on the burns, wild brown trout fishing can be booked via www.fishtyne.co.uk or 01573 470 612.
Keen anglers: • Boat anglers should head for the Belling Inlet and Plashett’s Bay.• For bank anglers, try Hawkhope, Leaplish Waterside Park and Tower Knowe Visitor Centre. • Pick up a ‘Go fishing’ detailed guide or purchase a fishing starter pack from one of the visitor centres.• Boat hire is available from Leaplish Waterside Park (booking is required in advance - 01434 251 000). 31
Minor roadOther roadOther trackLakeside WayNational border
Art and architecture
Viewpoint
Youth hostel
Osprey Ferry
Car park
Toilets
Information
Dark Sky Discovery Site
WC
P
KEYMinor roadOther roadOther trackLakeside WayNational border
Art and architecture
Viewpoint
Youth hostel
Osprey Ferry
Car park
Toilets
Information
Dark Sky Discovery Site
WC
P
KEY
Adventure, activities and events
32
If it’s adventure you’re looking for, look no further!
We host exciting activities and events all year round – whether your passion is mountain biking, rallying, working forests, star gazing, fishing, wildlife, culture or arts.
• Brave some of the most technical and demanding single track mountain biking trails in the country (see p17).• Head to Calvert Trust Kielder for climbing walls, zip wire, King Swing and high ropes course (p10).• Try orienteering – there is an ‘easy to hard’ and a ‘hard to difficult’ course at Kielder Castle – call 01434 250 209 or go to www.visitkielder.com for more information.• Enjoy Go Active activities at Leaplish Waterside Park (p6) such as fencing, seascooters, water walkerz, archery, crossbow and more (must be pre-booked).• Run the most beautiful marathon course in Britain, the Kielder Marathon.• Enter the enchanted forest in Kielder Winter Wonderland.• Take part in astronomy, wildlife and art and architecture specially organised events.• Or the Classic and vintage vehicle show and much more.
Pick up a copy of the quarterly ‘What’s On’ guide from any of the visitor centres or look at the events page of www.visitkield-er.com to discover our varied programme of events and activities.
Best views
Restaurant / cafe
Shop
Accommodation
Campsite
Play area
Cycle hire
Mountain biking
Fishing
Water skiing
Sailing
Wildlife hide
Best views
Restaurant / cafe
Shop
Accommodation
Campsite
Play area
Cycle hire
Mountain biking
Fishing
Water skiing
Sailing
Wildlife hide
Places to eat
Northumberland is famed for its locally produced seasonal produce, from lamb, beef and game to treats such as beers and ice creams. There’s a whole host of tea rooms, coffee shops and local pubs. If you’re bringing a picnic, why not stock up at a local farm shop such as Kielder Organic Meats (01434 220 435). Kielder Village shop also has plenty of provisions.
On-site: • The Boat Inn restaurant & bar at Leaplish Waterside Park serves a range of food using fresh local produce - 01434 251 000.• Café on the water at Tower Knowe is perfect for lunch or coffee breaks - 01434 240 436. • Kielder Castle Café offers hearty warming meals - 01434 250 100 or www.dukespantry.co.uk.
Don’t forget to check opening times as times vary seasonally.
Nearby:Falstone village has Falstone Tearoom (01434 240 459) for meals and fresh cakes as well as the Rosette a la carte restaurant at the Blackcock Inn (01434 240 200). In Stannersburn, The Pheasant Inn (01434 240 382) is famed for its bistro style food and the Angler’s Arms (01434 250 072) in Kielder Village offers snacks, meals and Sunday dinners.
Byrness Village has the Byrness Hotel (01830 520 231) and the Foresters Restaurant and Bar at the Forest View Inn (01830 520 425).
33
31
Where to stay
Northumberland offers many welcoming B&Bs, smart hotels, cosy cottages, barn conversions, youth hostels, caravan, campsites and glamping, shepherd huts and log cabins.
Bellingham, Byrness, Falstone, Kielder, Otterburn and Stonehaugh are the nearest villages - to search for accommodation go to www.visitkielder.com.
At the visitor centres in the Park, accommodation is provided at: • Calvert Trust Kielder - four star self catering lodges (fully accessible) at the Sky Den Tree House 01434 250 232.• Kielder lodges - four and five star self catering lodges at Leaplish Waterside Park 01434 251 000.• Kielder Caravan Park - pitches for touring motor homes and caravans at Leaplish Waterside Park 01434 251 000. • Kielder Caravan and Camping Site - riverside site for tents, touring caravans and campers 01434 250 291.
34
Travel information
Getting here: There is an unmanned, community run petrol station that only accepts card payments in Kielder Village.
Kielder Water & Forest Park is: 30 miles (50 min drive) from Hexham. 52 miles (80 min drive) from Newcastle. 40 miles (90 min drive) from Carlisle. 30 miles (60 min drive) from Jedburgh. For bus routes from Hexham call 01434 220 616. Check the ‘Know before you go’ page of www.visitkield-er.com for handy tips and hints.
When you’re here:Note the distance between the visitor centres and sites and plan enough time for your return journeys. Please respect any residential areas within the Park.
Parking tickets must be purchased but you can use your ticket at all car parks during the day so you only have to buy a ticket once. The Forest Drive is recommended for 4 wheel drive vehicles (passable for 2 wheel drive driven with care) and subject to closure during bad weather.
Always check ferry timetables before setting off.
Bike hire is available in the Park (see p17).
35
For more information about Kielder Water & Forest Park or to plan your visit, call:
0845 155 0236Find out more at www.visitkielder.comor on arrival at one of our main visitor centres:Tower Knowe Visitor CentreLeaplish Waterside ParkKielder Castle Visitor Centre.
Find us on facebook - www.facebook.com/kielder
Follow us on Twitter - @visitkielder
All details were accurate at the time of going to press 04/14. Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies that may occur in this guide. Please refer to www.visitkielder.com for regular information updates.
