The Drake Stone: Majestic Glacial Boulder and Panoramic Highland Landmark
Discover Northumberland’s colossal Drake Stone, a legendary glacial boulder with panoramic views and rich local lore.
The Drake Stone is a colossal glacial erratic boulder weighing approximately 2,000 tons, located near Harbottle village in Northumberland National Park. This ancient sandstone monolith, steeped in legend and reputed healing powers, sits atop a ridge offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Harbottle Lake, and the ruins of Harbottle Castle. Accessible via a moderate 5-mile circular walk, the site combines natural wonder, myth, and scenic beauty in a tranquil upland setting.
A brief summary to The Drake Stone
- Northumberland National Park, Morpeth, Harbottle, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear due to narrow, boggy, and uneven sections on the walking path.
- Check military firing times on the nearby Otterburn Range before planning your visit.
- Allow approximately 2.5 hours to complete the moderate 5-mile circular walk.
- Finish your walk with a visit to the nearby Star Inn pub for food and drink.
- Avoid visiting at night due to uneven terrain and local legends about the stone.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
Drive to Harbottle village and park at Harbottle Woods car park or near Harbottle Castle. The walk from either car park to the Drake Stone takes about 30 minutes. Parking is free but limited, so arrive early during peak times.
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Bus
Local bus services run to Morpeth from where you can take a taxi or cycle approximately 15 miles to Harbottle. Bus frequency is limited, so plan accordingly. Taxi fares from Morpeth to Harbottle typically range from £30 to £40.
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Walking
From Harbottle village center, the Drake Stone is accessible via a moderate 5-mile circular walk featuring some steep inclines and stiles. The terrain can be uneven and boggy in places, so suitable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.
The Drake Stone location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Drake Stone
Geological Wonder and Mythical Heritage
The Drake Stone is a massive sandstone boulder, classified as a glacial erratic, transported and deposited by a glacier during the last Ice Age. Weighing around 2,000 tons, it rests dramatically on a ridge overlooking the Coquetdale valley near Harbottle. Historically known as the Dragon Stone or Draak's Stone, local lore attributes mystical healing powers to it and suggests that it was once used by druids, embedding the site deeply in regional folklore.Scenic Vistas and Natural Surroundings
From the summit where the Drake Stone sits, visitors are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. These vistas encompass the picturesque Harbottle village, the tranquil Harbottle Lake, and the atmospheric ruins of Harbottle Castle. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged moorland and rolling hills typical of Northumberland National Park, offering a serene and scenic experience that changes with the seasons.Walking Experience and Accessibility
The Drake Stone is reached via a moderate circular walking route of approximately 5 miles (8 km), which takes around 2.5 hours to complete. The path includes some short steep inclines and stiles, with sections that can be narrow and boggy, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The walk starts near Harbottle Castle car park or Harbottle Woods car park, providing convenient access. The terrain and moderate difficulty make it suitable for reasonably fit walkers seeking a rewarding outdoor adventure.Nearby Historical and Cultural Attractions
Close to the Drake Stone are the evocative ruins of Harbottle Castle, a medieval stronghold that adds historical depth to the visit. The village of Harbottle itself offers a glimpse into rural Northumberland life, and visitors often conclude their excursions with refreshments at the cozy Star Inn pub nearby. The area’s rich cultural heritage complements the natural and mythical significance of the Drake Stone.Environmental and Conservation Context
Situated within Northumberland National Park, the Drake Stone benefits from protection as part of a vast natural reserve known for its dark skies, wildlife habitats, and conservation efforts. The park encourages sustainable tourism and responsible enjoyment of its landscapes. Visitors are urged to check for military firing times on the nearby Otterburn Range before visiting, as this can affect access.Seasonal and Practical Considerations
The best times to visit are during mild weather conditions when the paths are less boggy and the views clearer. The site is exposed to wind and weather, so appropriate clothing is advised. Night visits are discouraged due to uneven terrain and local legends warning of being unable to leave after dark. Facilities near the start of the walk include parking and access to food and drink, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady's Well
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Border Memories
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Warkworth Hermitage
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Schloss Roxburghe - Destination by Hyatt
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Morpeth Clock Tower
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Etal Castle
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Kelso Abbey
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Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum
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Kelso
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Over Ancrum
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Scott/Douglas Mausoleum
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Roxburgh Castle
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The Hirsel Estate
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Marjoribanks Monument
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Floors Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
Harbottle Castle
1.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Harbottle Castle, a 12th-century fortress overlooking the serene River Coquet valley in Northumberland.
Woodhouses Bastle House
6.1 km
Explore Woodhouses Bastle, a fortified 17th-century farmhouse in Northumberland, embodying the resilience of border life and historic defense.
Northumberland National Park
8.6 km
Explore England’s northernmost wilderness where ancient history meets wild landscapes and rare wildlife in Northumberland National Park.
Davidson's Linn
11.8 km
Discover the tranquil double waterfall of Davidson's Linn, a hidden natural gem nestled deep in Northumberland's Cheviot Hills.
Simonside Hills
12.0 km
Explore the rugged Simonside Hills near Morpeth, where panoramic views, rich wildlife, and ancient legends await atop a distinctive sandstone ridge.
Linhope Spout Waterfall
13.2 km
Discover Linhope Spout, a breathtaking 18m waterfall nestled in Northumberland’s Cheviot Hills, perfect for scenic walks, wildlife, and tranquil picnics.
Winter's Gibbet
14.3 km
Discover the haunting history and stunning landscapes at Winter's Gibbet, an iconic landmark in Northumberland's Harwood region.
Lordenshaw Hill Fort
14.4 km
Explore Lordenshaw Hill Fort, a captivating 2,000-year-old Iron Age hillfort nestled in Northumberland’s serene National Park landscape.
Cragside Formal Garden
15.1 km
Explore the enchanting three-tiered Victorian Formal Garden at Cragside, a historic estate famed for its innovative heritage and stunning rhododendron displays.
National Trust - Cragside
15.4 km
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Edlingham Castle
20.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a 14th-century fortified manor house set in tranquil Northumberland countryside, free to visit year-round.
Brinkburn Priory and Manor House
20.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and medieval heritage of Brinkburn Priory, a restored 12th-century Gothic church nestled in Northumberland’s tranquil river valley.
Hareshaw Linn Walk
20.6 km
A magical woodland walk to a stunning nine-metre waterfall rich in rare plants and wildlife in Northumberland National Park.
Black Middens Bastle House
20.6 km
A 16th-century fortified farmhouse in Northumberland’s Tarset Valley, built to withstand border reiver raids and now a quiet, evocative ruin cared for by English Heritage.
National Trust - Wallington
22.9 km
Explore Wallington’s historic house, vast woodlands, tranquil walled garden, and family-friendly trails in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
Essential places to dine
The Coach House
10.7 km
Historic British charm and hearty cuisine nestled in the tranquil deer park of Otterburn Hall estate.
The Three Wheat Heads Inn
10.9 km
A warm, traditional Northumberland inn offering hearty local cuisine, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in the charming village of Thropton.
The Bosk
17.2 km
Rustic British cuisine and cozy charm in Alnwick’s tranquil countryside, perfect for relaxed dining and special gatherings.
Dobson Restaurant
24.5 km
Experience refined British dining in a grand Georgian setting at Dobson Restaurant, Macdonald Linden Hall, nestled in scenic Northumberland.
Milan Restaurant
24.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.
The Cook & Barker Inn
25.1 km
A warm, stylish country pub near Morpeth, serving excellent food and offering comfortable rooms in the heart of Northumberland.
Percy Arms Hotel
27.5 km
Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.
Adam and Eve
27.9 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
27.9 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
The Dirty Bottles
27.9 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
Sonnet Restaurant
28.1 km
A 14-course poetic journey through Northumberland’s finest produce, served in an intimate, literary-inspired Alnwick dining room.
Battlesteads Hotel & Restaurant
28.2 km
Charming rural hotel blending cozy comfort, gourmet dining, and magical stargazing in Northumberland’s serene countryside.
The Treehouse Restaurant
28.6 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Carters Rest
31.3 km
Cozy British pub and restaurant in Jedburgh offering hearty Scottish fare, homemade desserts, and a friendly atmosphere on historic Abbey Place.
The Capon Tree Town House
31.4 km
Charming boutique restaurant and bar with cozy rooms, blending Scottish Borders heritage with warm hospitality in Jedburgh’s historic center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Otterburn Mill Shop and Café, Otterburn
12.1 km
Historic mill shop and cozy café nestled in Northumberland’s scenic Otterburn, blending outdoor gear, homemade food, and tranquil picnic grounds.
Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury
13.9 km
Discover quality walking apparel at Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury’s trusted destination for outdoor clothing in Northumberland’s scenic market town.
Elements Art & Craft Gallery
14.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at Elements Art & Craft Gallery in the heart of Rothbury, Northumberland.
Natural Northumberland
22.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts reflecting Northumberland’s rich heritage at this charming Bellingham boutique.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
27.8 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
A World Of Difference
27.9 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
28.0 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Marilyn & Melrose
28.0 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Robinson's
28.0 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
Willowburn Retail Park
28.4 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Notes of Northumberland
28.6 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Thirty Five
31.4 km
A stylish boutique on Jedburgh’s historic High Street offering unique finds and personalized shopping in a welcoming setting.
The Vault of Curiosities
31.4 km
Discover rare antiques and fascinating stories at The Vault of Curiosities, a charming treasure trove in the heart of historic Jedburgh.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
32.6 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
Jane & Harry
33.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Star Inn
1.4 km
Historic 14th-century pub in Harbottle offering cozy rooms, excellent food, and a warm community atmosphere in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
The Turks Head
13.8 km
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The Granby Inn
21.3 km
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Anglers Arms
22.4 km
A charming four-star country inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
Coast & Country
24.1 km
A tranquil bar and shop nestled in Northumberland’s Percy Wood Golf and Country Club, perfect for relaxing with a drink after outdoor adventures.
The Foxes Den
26.7 km
A cozy, dog-friendly micro pub in Felton’s riverside basement, famed for real ales and friendly local charm.
The Northumberland Arms
26.7 km
Charming country pub and boutique hotel in Felton offering fresh local cuisine, luxury rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
27.1 km
A lively Wild West-themed bar and grill in Morpeth offering casual dining, sports entertainment, and a pet-friendly atmosphere within Felmoor Holiday Park.
Black Swan Alnwick
27.9 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
The Queens Head
27.9 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
Harry's Bar
27.9 km
A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
28.1 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
The Beresford Arms
31.0 km
Historic coaching inn turned award-winning pub, restaurant, and B&B offering warm hospitality and countryside charm in Whalton, Northumberland.
The Belter's Bar
31.5 km
Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.
The Black & Grey Morpeth
33.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly bar and pub in Morpeth’s historic centre offering vibrant atmosphere, hearty meals, and welcoming service.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
33.6 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Knightrider Discos
34.2 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
The Royal British Legion
35.5 km
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Dance Delicious
39.2 km
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The Border Club
42.8 km
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Base Nightclub
42.8 km
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Square One
43.0 km
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Nothing
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Morven
44.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
BedRocks
49.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
49.1 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
Cosmic Ballroom
51.5 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
51.6 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Powerhouse
51.8 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Popworld - Newcastle
51.8 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
