Rothbury

About trip

A pleasant stroll alongside the River Coquet and into Rothbury village.

Suitable for a variety of users. Due to width/surface restrictions on some parts, the route is not suitable for pushchairs/wheelchairs, although the riverside can be accessed by these users from the village centre.

Be aware: parts of the route may flood when the river level is high.

Rothbury has always been the ‘capital’ of Coquetdale.

An important settlement throughout its history, situated at a fording point of the River Coquet, with turnpike roads to Newcastle, Hexham, Morpeth and Alnwick. ‘Rothbury’ derives from Anglo Saxon times, (‘Routhebiria’ meaning Routha’s Town) mentioned as being around 1100AD.

It is a bustling market town, popular with visitors throughout the year, but is particularly busy during the summer.

Wildlife

The riverside is home to a variety of animals, birds and plant life. On your walk you may see rabbits, otters, chaffinches, blue tits and water-loving birds such as gulls, ducks, herons, dippers, swans, kingfishers.

Local facilities

Shops and services are available in Rothbury, including pubs and cafes, tourist information and accommodation.

The National Park’s award-winningVisitor Centre and Tourist Information Centre is located on the village green in Rothbury and houses a fascinating interactive display about the wildlife, history and culture of this landscape. Our information officers have a wealth of knowledge about the area, services available and events, and can also help to book accommodation.