Published at 11:08, Thursday, 15 January 2009

THIS two-mile (3.25km) walk meanders through mixed woodland with a wildlife observatory hide, red squirrel feeders and stunning views of the Wansbeck river valley and Shafto Crag escarpment.

It’s situated within the Wallington estate, run by the National Trust, and is one of several routes that can be downloaded from the National Trust website www.nationaltrust.org. uk/walks

Terrain: Good walking conditions on gravel footpath. Some gradients.

Points of interest:

Start the walk in the car park, and look out for the following features:

1. Wildlife observatory hide and red squirrel feeders.

2. Beautiful views of Wansbeck river valley to the west and south.

3. Spectacular views of Wansbeck river valley and Shafto Crag escarpment to the south.

4. View of the ‘Arches’, moved here to make way for the current clock tower gateway in the Wallington courtyard.

5. Look out for further red squirrel feeders here.

Head warden at Wallington, Richard Dickinson, said: “Wallington hosts part of the rare red squirrel population in Northumberland.

“What better way to see them than in the beautiful 18th century landscape around the house, interspersed with ponds and viewing points?

“If you have time, stop off to enjoy the enchanting walled garden at the east end of your route.”

Detailed walk leaflets are available at the National Trust information centre at the entrance to Wallington.

Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk