As well as walks and trails, Haydon Bridge’s countryside is home to some hidden gems. The outdoor attractions below offer a chance to enjoy yourself off the beaten track.

Langley Dam

Langley Dam is a 14 acre lake approximately 3 miles south of Haydon Bridge, where anglers can fish from boats or the shore in the beautiful North Pennine countryside.

Website: Langley Dam Fishery

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

The National Trust’s local attraction, which should not be missed, is Allen Banks and Staward Gorge. These were the Victorian grounds of Ridley Hall and follow the River Allen southwards through ancient woodland.

Website:  National Trust Website

Tony's Patch Ancient Woodland

Along the lane between Chesterwood and Prior House 2km to the northwest of Haydon Bridge is a sign posted stile which leads across a field into a 4 acre species-rich haven section of ancient woodland known as Tony’s Patch. The Honeycrook Burn runs through the patch from the old lead mine workings above this area. This is owned by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust and there is a memorial stone in the woods to Tony Clissold, a local naturalist who died whilst following bird life in a nearby lake. In the spring there is a magnificent carpet of bluebells.

Website: Northumberland Wildlife Trust

Haydon Spa Well

Currently inaccessible due to river erosion but still well worth a mention, Haydon Spa Well is a sulphurous spa well first developed in 1863 with a further improvement in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. We hope that its curative properties and fragrant water will once again be accessible to visitors, but in the meantime do please bear it in mind for a future visit.