&VisitorWINTER 17 - SPRING 18

Events Guide

• WHAT’S ON • WHERE TO GO • WHAT TO SEE •

www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk

FREE GUIDE

NlandNP @NlandNP

Farne Islands

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To CARLISLE To

DURHAM To SUNDERLAND

To EDINBURGH

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BYRNESS

FALSTONE

ROCHESTER

ELSDON

BELLINGHAM

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SWEETHOPELOUGHS

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KIELDER WATER &FOREST PARK

CATCLEUGHRESERVOIR

FOREST DRIVE(TOLL ROAD)

FONTBURNRESERVOIR

LONGHORSLEY

BOLAMLAKE

ALNWICK

COLLEGE VALLEY

KIRK YETHOLM

HARTHOPE VALLEY

BREAMISHVALLEY

UPPER COQUETDALE

SIMONSIDE HILLS

OTTERBURN RANGES(MOD)

BAMBURGHSEAHOUSES

BEADNELL

EMBLETON

CRAMLINGTON

TYNEMOUTH

GATESHEAD

GREENLEE LOUGH

BROOMLEELOUGH

LONGFRAMLINGTON

HARBOTTLE

NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

NORTHUMBERLANDASHINGTON

NEWCASTLEWALLSEND

CUMBRIA

SCOTLAND

TOWNYETHOLM

GREENHAUGH

The Cheviots

Coquetdale

North Tyneand Redesdale

Hadrian's Wall

THE SILL

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Find your adventure inNorthumberland National Park

National Park Information Point

NorthumberlandNational Park

This publication includes mapping data licensed from Ordnance Survey. © Crown Copyright and database right 2017 Ordnance Survey 100022521.

Tourist Information

This publication is produced by Northumberland National Park Authority. Details are believed to be correct at the time of going to print (October 2017). Printed on recycled paper.Front cover: Walking together at Ingram, Breamish Valley © Ryan EdyPhotographs ©: Paul Buxton, Laurie Campbell, Roger Clegg, Deve Photography, Ryan Edy, Nigel Eve, Ian Glendinning, Simon Fraser,Alasdair Mackenzie, Sally Norman, Heather Parr, Mike Ridley, Brian Rogers, Cain Scrimgeour, Shutterstock, Peter Skelton, David Taylor, NNPA.Illustrations ©: Cathy Brett.

CONTENTSOften described as ‘the land of the far horizon,’ there is a wild beauty in Northumberland National Park that bestows a sense of wellbeing just from being immersed in open and tranquil countryside, surroundedby the sounds and sights of nature and the stars above.

Autumn and Winter are perfect forseeing the rich colours of the landscapeilluminated by the soft light of day, and the thousands of stars set againstthe pitch darkness of our pristine skies at night. Whether it is crunchingthrough crystalline snow or feeling the warmth of a roaring fire in a local Inn, this is a wonderful time to be out and about.

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02 MAP

03 WELCOME

04 THE SILL NATIONAL LANDSCAPE DISCOVERY CENTRE

05 INFORMATION POINTS

06 OTHER SOURCES OF INFORMATION

07 OUR TOP 10 WINTER SITES

08 HADRIAN’S WALL COUNTRY

10 NORTH TYNE & REDESDALE

11 OTTERBURN RANGES

12 COQUETDALE

13 THE CHEVIOTS

14 STARGAZING

15 ASTRONOMICAL EVENTS

16 POEMS IN THE AIR

17 EVENTS CALENDAR

26 THE SILL LEARNING PROGRAMME

27 MOUNTAIN RESCUE

Cawfields

WELCOME

Opened in July, The Sill National Land-scape Discovery Centre is named after the famous volcanic geological feature - The Whin Sill, upon which the EmperorHadrian built his Wall in AD122.

It is an amazing new visitor attraction, developed in partnership with the YHA,and generously supported by the HeritageLottery Fund. With its year-round programmeof events, it will inspire you to go and explore the landscapes, history and heritage of Northumberland.

VISIT THE SILLNATIONAL LANDSCAPE DISCOVERY CENTRE

Youth Hostel

café

The most striking feature is its walk-on grassroof and viewing platform overlooking the Wall and surrounding countryside. Alternatively, you can view our vistas fromthe comfort of our Café specialising inlocal food. Afterwards you can walkaround our amazing interactive exhibitionthat will help explain how our countrysidehas changed over thousands of years, andhow it continues to adapt to our needs.

Knowledgeable and friendly staff will helpyou get the best out of your day, with awell stocked shop selling outdoor gear and locally crafted gifts. A brand new 86-bed Youth Hostel is alongside.

iInformation

Rooftop Walkway

Exhibition & Shop

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B6318Milita

ry RoadSteel

Rigg

THE SILLNational Landscape Discovery Centre

NE47 7ANT: 01434 341200

HADRIAN’S WALL

Hexham& CarlisleHaltwhistle

The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

WINTER OPENING HOURS10am - 4pm

THE SILL

Old School House TeaRoom Elsdon NE19 1AA T: 01830 520389

Camien CafeRochester NE19 1RH T: 01830 520161

National Park Information Points are located in friendly local businesses, such as pubs and tea rooms and have a small range of visitor information about attractions and walks in the vicinity.

Valley Cottage CafeIngram NE66 4LT T: 01665 578948

Cafe MaelminMilfield NE71 6JD T: 01668 216232

The Border HotelKirk Yetholm TD5 8PQ T: 01573 420237

The Rose & Thistle InnAlwinton NE65 7BQ T: 01669 650226

The Star InnHarbottle NE65 7DG T: 01669 650221

Old School Tea RoomFalstone NE48 1AA T: 01434 240459

Greenhead Tea RoomGreenhead CA8 7HE T: 01697 747400

The Sill National LandscapeDiscovery CentreHadrian’s Wall NE47 7ANT: 01434 341200

Simonburn Tea RoomsSimonburn NE48 3AW T: 01434 681321

iLook out for the signs when you are out and about. The Locations are on the map on page 2. Please check with the individual business for their Winteropening hours if planning to visit.

NATIONAL PARK INFORMATION POINTS

Wooler Tourist InformationCentre NE71 6BL T: 01668 282123

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The Cheviots

Coquetdale

North Tyne & Redesdale

Hadrian’s Wall

Ordnance Survey Maps

We wish we could say that mobile phone coverage in the National Park is wonderful, but sadly it isn’tand Wi-Fi is also limited in places.

However many of our favourite circularwalks in the National Park are on ViewRanger App. View Ranger allows you todownload their landscape map; a free terrain map for offline viewing without a mobile or data signal. Based on Open Street Map, it shows contours, peaks, lakes, and popular trails.

Download the free ViewRanger App:www.viewranger.com/en-gb/get-the-app

Download ing Informat ion

When you are out and about you may bumpinto one of our National Park Rangers, whoare always happy to stop for a chat aboutwhat to see and do in the area. For moreinformation about their work, email:rangers@nnpa.org.uk

Our National Park Volunteers of all agesare involved in a wide range of activities,whether it is working with specialist staff in the care and conservation of the naturalheritage, leading a guided walk or helpingout with school visits. All of them share apassion for the area and will go that extramile to make the best of your day. Formore information about volunteering,email: volunteer@nnpa.org.uk

OTHER SOURCES OF INFORMATION ...Nat ional Park Rangers and Volunteers

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For all your accommodation needs, visit the website of the following Tourism Associations in and around NorthumberlandNational Park:

The Heart of Hadrian’s Wall Tourism Association www.heartofhadrianswall.com

The Heart of Northumberland TourismAssociation www.thonta.co.uk

North Northumberland Tourism Association www.nnta.org

F ind ing Accommodat ion

For walks in remote upland areas, we always advise that you use the appropriate Ordnance Survey Explorer Map for the area.

The main OS Maps for Northumberland National Park are:

Hadrian’s Wall:OS Explorer OL43 1:25000

Kielder Water & Forest (and Simonside Hills): OS Explorer OL42 1:25000

The Cheviot Hills:OS Explorer OL16 1:25000

Download the OS Map App:www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/os-maps-mobile.html

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Our top 10 Winter sites

HARESHAW LINN A lovely woodlandgorge walk to a 30ft waterfall. Look out forRed Squirrels high in the trees! Afterwards,pop into the CarriageTea Room nearby.

WALLTOWN QUARRYCOUNTRY PARKEasy access footpaths,with toilets and car parkon site. Take a walkdown to the ruins ofThirwall Castle andGreenhead tea room.

WOOLER & HUMBLETON HILL A great little town fromwhich to exploreneighbouring valleys.Climb Humbleton Hillwith it’s Iron Age hill-fort for fantastic views.

ELSDONA picturesque villageknown for its BonfireNight on the green!Drop in to the café orpub after taking a walkaround the village orover the moorland.

COLLEGE VALLEY & KIRKNEWTON At the very northern edge of the Cheviot Hillslies the remote College Valley. Climb one of the many Iron Age hillforts and see if you canspot the wild Cheviot goats as they roam thesurrounding hillsides. Call in to Kirknewton and visit St Gregory’s Church.

THE SILL: National Landscape Discovery CentreAn indoor exhibition and shop, with a café providing locally sourced and inspired food. The Sill has panoramic views up to Hadrian’s Wall and over the surrounding countryside.Thereare good circular walks nearby along Hadrian’sWall to Sycamore Gap and Crag Lough.

HADRIAN’S WALL

REDESDALE

THE CHEVIOTS

NORTH TYNE HADRIAN’S WALL THE CHEVIOTS

HARBOTTLE CASTLEStroll up to the Medievalcastle ruins overlookingthe village, then try thepub, a hostelry in thebest old-fashioned sense of the word.

BREAMISH VALLEYA stunning location fora family day out. Takea walk up to LinhopeSpout waterfall with its60ft drop and enjoythe views on the way.

THE CHEVIOTS COQUETDALE

THE STELL, FALSTONEEnjoy a short walk fromFalstone to the Stellsculpture on the banksof the North Tyne, anddrop in to the tea roomon the way back.

LORDENSHAWS Discover ancient ‘cup & ring’ rock art, an IronAge hillfort and burialcairns at Lordenshaws,all just a short strollaway from the car park.

NORTH TYNE COQUETDALE

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Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, as Britain’s largest and longest ancient monument is a must-see experience! This mammoth feat of engineering only took three legions of Romans around sixyears to build and the best bit is arguably in Northumberland National Park.

Why not take a short bracing autumnal stroll from Steel Rigg up onto the Wall, and take in the views, or you could take the family to Cawfields Quarry Dark SkyDiscovery Site (remember to take warm food and clothes) on a clear winter’s night and gaze upon the beauty of the Milky Way above.

Caw Gap, Hadrian’s Wall

The Sill National Landscape DiscoveryCentre is your ideal winter base camp,providing warmth, comfort and great foodfrom its café, as well as plenty of seasonalinspiration. Look out for our dark skyevents taking place along the Wall onPages 18 to 26.

HADRIAN’S WALL COUNTRY

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Cawfields

Greenlee Lough

Roman Army Museum (Carvoran)(CA8 7JD)See what it was like to be a Roman soldier on Hadrian’s Wall.For Winter opening times visit: www.vindolanda.com/roman-army-museum

Vindolanda – Roman Fort & Museum(NE47 7JN)See the famous ‘Vindolanda tablets’ inthe Museum, a national treasure.For Winter opening times visit: www.vindolanda.com

S ites to v i s it in Winter

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Housesteads

Housesteads – Roman Fort & Museum(NE47 6NN)One of the best preserved forts on theWall for bracing views. For winter opening times visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/housesteads

Greenlee Lough – National NatureReserve Located just north of the Wallbehind Steel Rigg, this is one of the most important wetland sites in Britain,particularly for wildfowl in the winter.There is a bird-hide accessible by aboardwalk through the reed beds. OS GR: NY 748 690

Roman Army Museum

Boardwalk to Greenlee Lough

There’s a wonderful charm about the valleysof the North Tyne and Rede; here sheepfarming, timber production and wildlifeconservation go hand-in-hand. Largeforests provide red squirrels with a securehome. You may even catch a glimpse ofotters or salmon leaping in the rivers.

Scattered through this untamed landscape,once home to notorious Border Reiverclans, are ruined castles and historic bastles (fortified farmhouses). Make sureyou don’t miss Elsdon, the ancient andpicturesque ‘capital’ of Redesdale, with itscosy tea room and newly refurbished pub- the ideal base for a short circular familywinter walk.

Tarset

N O R T H T Y N E A N D R E D E S D A L EIf you want autumn colours, then take thefamily to Hareshaw Linn, a woodlandgorge walk starting from a car park nearthe Heritage Centre in the centre of thepicturesque small town of Bellingham.Download the Hareshaw Linn Walk on

Further up the North Tyne Valley towardsKielder Water & Forest Park, take time todiscover the wild secrets of the Tarset valleyincluding Greenhaugh and Falstone, whereyou’ll experience fine views and warmhospitality in local pubs and tearooms.

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Northumberland NationalPark Walks on View Ranger

Otterburn RangesFiring Times

11Otterburn Ranges

O t t e r b u r n R a n g e sOne of England’s remotest upland regions,Otterburn Ranges is a Military TrainingArea that also offers you miles of wildwalks and cycle-rides.

Firing Notices governing public accessare published fortnightly in advance andare posted in our local National Park Information Points and online.

You can also view them by scanning thisQR code on your phone.

There are two zones on Otterburn Rangeswhere different access arrangements apply.

OPEN ACCESS AREAYou are free to explore this area any day of the year.

CONTROLLED ACCESS AREAWhen red flags are flying on the perimeterof this area, the roads within the area areCLOSED - training with live ammunition istaking place. When there are no red flagsflying you can drive, ride or walk along thefootpaths and bridleways in this area.

PLEASE obey all signs and red flags!If in any doubt about access please contact Range Control T: 01830 520569

River Coquet

C o q u e t da l eOn the banks of the River Coquet, thecharming town of Rothbury provides aseasonal gateway into the Simonside Hillsand the Coquet Valley. This traditional,but vibrant little town is a great base toexplore the surrounding hills that offeroutstanding views across the Cheviots tothe north.

Head up into remote Upper Coquetdaleand discover its wilder side. Alwinton thelast village in the valley, is surrounded byrolling hills, and a great starting point forwalks up onto the Border Ridge. The darkskies here make it a perfect place to indulge in some stargazing.

There is a great family circular walk, starting from Harbottle which takes in themythical Drake Stone that overlooks thevillage and it’s 12th century castle ruins.Download the route from our website:www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/things-to-do

Further down the valley is Holystone andthe Lady’s Well, dedicated to the VirginMary. Close by is the 17th century Woodhouses Bastle (fortified farmhouse).

For the adventurous, the Sandstone WayMountain Bike Trail passes through Coquetdale, log on to: www.sandstoneway.co.uk

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T h e C h e v i o t sAlternatively, there is a lovely walk alongthe single track from Hethpool into theawe-inspiring landscape of the CollegeValley. Hillforts, such as Ring Chesters,were built in the Iron Age, but the areaalso contains rich remains dating back to the Bronze Age.

Just south of Wooler, the Breamish Valleyis a popular destination throughout theyear with valley walks along the riversideand a café (Valley Cottage) and toilets atIngram. From Bulby’s Wood Car Park, its a short walk up to the summit of BroughLaw Iron Age hillfort, where the views fromthe top are superb. For more inspiration,pop in to Wooler Tourist Information Centre in The Cheviot Centre.

Eruptions of lava, then 400 million years of ice, wind and rain has left thedistinctive rounded hills of the Cheviots.Now crisscrossed with miles of bridlewaysand footpaths, you can walk or mountainbike the routes of ancient cattle drovers.The whale-backed shape of Cheviot at2,674 feet (815 metres), is the highestpoint in Northumberland.

Why not take a bracing walk up YeaveringBell, near Wooler (‘hill of the goats’) withits Iron Age stone fortifications at the summit. From here, you’ll have stunningviews to the coast and into Scotland.Below its towering presence is Gefrin, the site of the first Royal Centre of Anglo Saxon Northumbria.

Collingwood Oaks, College Valley

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Star Trails at Harbottle Castle

Due to the excessive light pollution in ourtowns and cities, most residents cannot seea truly dark sky, seeing around 5 - 10 starsat most. Whereas when you come awayfrom street lighting into the more ruralareas, you can see more than 2000 starson a clear night. Northumberland NationalPark and much of Kielder Water & ForestPark has now been designated as an International Dark Sky Park (Gold Tier)with the darkest skies in England.

You don’t need expensive equipment toview the night sky, just use your eyes. A mobile phone App such as Sky Map(Android) or Star Walk (iphone) can helpyou navigate around the night sky, and take it all in. It will be an experience youwill never forget.

Remember to keep warm when you arestargazing and take hot food and drinkswith you. And, please be courteous to local residents if you are out stargazing late at night.

STARGAZING IN EUROPE’S LARGESTINTERNATIONAL DARK SKY PARK

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The places below have been nominated as Dark Sky Discovery Sitesand are ideal for you to observe the beauty of the night sky. Some of them arecar parks or lay-bys, others are venues thathost dark sky events throughout the year.www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/dark-sky-discovery-sites/map.html

SITES:Alwinton Car ParkStonehaugh Stargazing PavillionCawfields Car ParkWalltown Quarry Country Park

VENUES (that host Stargazing Events):Kirknewton Village HallIngram Village HallElsdon Village Hall and GreenKIELDER OBSERVATORYFalstone Village HallTarset Village HallBattlesteads Hotel WarkThe Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre

Astronomical Events over the Winter

NORTH

SOUTH

SOUTH

LOOKING NORTH: The Plough is themost easily recognised group of stars inthe northern sky, and looks a bit like asaucepan! Polaris - the North Star liesbetween The Plough and the W-shape ofCassiopeia. The stars of the northern sky are the same all year round.

Adapted from original design by Forestry Commission, Scotland for Dark Sky Discovery

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7 JanuaryCONJUNCTION OF JUPITER AND MARS

18 February MERCURY AT GREATEST BRIGHTNESS

17 NovemberLEONID METEOR SHOWER

22 NovemberMERCURY AT GREATEST BRIGHTNESS

An easy way to help you navigate your way around the sky at nightLOOKING SOUTH: These stars changethroughout the year, but during Autumnand Winter you should see Cygnus - the swan, Orion - the hunter, andPleiades - the Seven Sisters. And, if you are really lucky our galaxy, the Milky Way.

NORTH

See our events programme on PAGES 18 - 26 for upcoming stargazingactivities or log on to our website:www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/events

POEM S I N T HE A IR

Scan the QR code with your smartphone

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Dear Dog Owners

Poems in the Air is a collection of six new poemsby the English Poet Simon Armitage, which were inspired by serene locations within NorthumberlandNational Park.

Download the free Poems in the Air mobile app(iphone & Android) to follow in Simon’s footstepsand listen to him reading his poems in the exactlocations that inspired them.

Old Middleton NEAR WOOLER

Dove CragHARBOTTLE

Simon Armitage

Shepherd’s Cairn EWARTLY SHANK

The Proposal StoneSIMONSIDE

Riverside WalkGREENHAUGH

Hollywell CottageSTONEHAUGH

Dogs are very welcome in NorthumberlandNational Park, however, as a general rule,please keep your dog on a lead if you cannot rely on its obedience.

Take particular care that your dog doesn’tscare sheep and lambs or wander where itmight disturb birds and other wildlife.

Please clean up after your dog and get rid of the mess responsibly.

Thank you.

Please keepdogs under control!

Eventsin

NORTHUMBERLAND NATIONAL PARK AUTUMN & WINTER

FAMILY FUN & SILL SUNDAYThese events are aimed at familieswith children 12 years and under.

WILD WEDNESDAYS are a way forchildren to explore, play, discoverand enjoy Northumberland NationalPark. These events are aimed atfamilies. Please ensure that you allwear suitable clothing and footwear.

GUIDED WALKS - Please see ourwebsite for important information.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL Please see website for details.

Our events programme is listed overPages 18 to 26 by date for Autumn and Winter.

We often add extra events or walks to theprogramme so please keep an eye outon Facebook and Twitter, and our websitefor updates.

To avoid disappointment we recommendthat you book your event in advance online. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first servedbasis. 10% off in The Sill Café for allevents that are over £10pp.

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www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/events

NlandNP @NlandNP

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The Sill

CHRISTMASFAIR

S T A R G A Z E R S D I N N E R6pm- 8pm

Friday NOVEMBER17

S T A R G A Z I N G8pm

- 10pmFriday NOVEMBER17Leonid Meteor WatchDiscover the wonder of theLeonids meteor shower, findout what comets are madeof, whether they hold the keyto life on earth and why dothey pass by regularly? Please wear warm clothes.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child (11 years+)

StargazingPre-event DinnerThis pre-event dinner offer atThe Sill Café (Fresh Element)is available to those bookedon the Leonid Meteor Watchevent. Two Course Dinner£15.00pp, 6pm - 8pm. Formenu, dietary requirementsand to book a table email:sill@freshelement.co.uk

N O V E M B E R

F A M I L Y F U N11am- 2pm

Sunday NOVEMBER 5

F A M I L Y F U N11am- 2pm

Sunday NOVEMBER12Sill SundayWhat do Owls Eat for Tea?Find out about owls thatmake this National Park their home, and what they like to eat, mmm..At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50* child *PAY ON THE DAY

9am- 10am

Sunday NOVEMBER 12Sill BootcampGet fit in the shadow ofHadrians’ Wall with KatyWilde of ‘Wilde Fitness’ PT.Every second Sunday in November and December,all equipment provided.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £7* (*free car parking until 11amfor Bootcamp ticket holders)

Sill SundayJam Jar Lantern MakingCome along and make yourown crafty jam jar lantern,which you can then take toyour local firework display.All materials provided.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50* child *PAY ON THE DAY

G E T A C T I V E

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DROP IN DROP IN

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER10AM - 6PM

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A great way to shop for hand-crafted Christmas presentsmade in the North East. Entertainment for all thefamily and great food. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallFree entry, car parking charge

8pm- 10pm

Saturday DECEMBER 2Moon WatchWeather permitting, we willbe outside gazing throughour powerful telescope andbinoculars to view the moonssurface in detail. Please wearwarm clothes. (11 years+)At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child Pre-event dinner available -see P18, Friday 17 Novemberfor details

9am- 10am

Sunday NOVEMBER 26Sill BootcampGet fit in the shadow ofHadrians’ Wall with KatyWilde of ‘Wilde Fitness’ PT.Every second Sunday in November and December,all equipment provided.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £7* (*free car parking until 11amfor Bootcamp ticket holders)

G E T A C T I V E

6.30pm- 10 pm

Friday DECEMBER 1Muckle Beer and Fresh Element at The SillAn afterhours exclusive visit to The Sill to meet one of ourlocal suppliers. Chat to the owner and brewer of Muckle Beerabout the ingredients and processes that go into making thisspecial brew. The Sill’s Chefs from Fresh Element will thendemonstrate novel ways to cook with beer and you get to eat the results!At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall (NE47 7AN)Cost: £45 per person(discounted tickets of 2 tickets for £80 / a group of 6 for £240)

G U I D E D W A L K10.30am- 3.30pm

Sunday NOVEMBER26North from Wooler to DoddingtonWe follow a section of St Cuthberts Way eastwardsto Weetwood Bridge thenhead north over DoddingtonMoor and back to Wooler. Meet: Cheviot Centre,Wooler (NE71 6BL)Grade: Strenuous / 10 milesCost: £10

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M E E T T H E M A K E R S T A R G A Z I N G

D E C E M B E R

For further events throughout the year keep an eye out:

thesill.org.uk/events

NlandNP

@NlandNP

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9.30am- 2pm

ThursdayDECEMBER

11am- 2pm

SundayDECEMBER10Sill SundayFrom Wood to WonderfulFestive fun with our Rangers creatingcrafty Christmas decorations, using natural materials.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50* *PAY ON THE DAY

F A M I L Y F U N

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WednesdayDECEMBER 13Geminids Meteor WatchSee what comets are made of,whether they hold the key tolife on earth and why do theypass by so regularly? Themeteors may arrive later inthe evening, so please wearwarm clothes. (11 years+)At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child Pre-event dinner available - see P18, Friday 17 Novemberfor details

S T A R G A Z I N G

11am- 2.00pm

Sunday DECEMBER 3

B E C R E A T I V E9.30am- 2pm

Saturday DECEMBER 9

Christmas Wreath Making MasterclassJoin Northumbrian Flowers at The Sill to make your very ownmixed pine wreath. Using local materials, including dried fruitsand a luxury bow of your choice, you will leave with a uniquewreath to welcome seasonal visitors to your home. All materialsand equipment provided, plus a delicious festive afternoon teaand drink at 12.30pm included in ticket price. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall (NE47 7AN)Cost: £60 (refreshments included)

9am- 10am

Sunday DECEMBER 10Sill BootcampGet fit in the shadow ofHadrians’ Wall with KatyWilde of ‘Wilde Fitness’ PT.Every second Sunday in November and December,all equipment provided.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £7* (*free car parking until 11amfor Bootcamp ticket holders)

Sill SundayFrom Wood to WonderfulFestive fun with our Rangers creating crafty Christmas decorations, using natural materials.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50* *PAY ON THE DAY

G E T A C T I V E

F A M I L Y F U N

D E C E M B E R

8pm-10pm

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DROP IN

12.30pm- 5pm&

DROP IN

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NORTHUMBRIANFLOWERS

Sunday JANUARY 17Sill SundayFeed the birds!Come along and mix up atasty New Year treat for thebirds, then take it home foryour garden. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50 child *PAY ON THE DAY

F A M I L Y F U NG U I D E D W A L K10.30am- 1.45pm

Wednesday DECEMBER 27

S T A R G A Z I N G8pm

- 10pmSaturday JANUARY 13Hunting the AuroraDiscover how to capturesight of the elusive Aurora.Weather permitting, you’ll beable to use our telescopes andbinoculars to view the night sky.Please wear warm clothes.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child (11 years+) Pre-event dinneravailable - see P18, Friday 17November for details

Christmas on the WallA chance to walk off theChristmas pudding on thiscircular route over the highestpoint of Hadrian's Wall, withgood views of the surroundingcountryside.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallGrade: Moderate / 6 mileCost: £8

B E C R E A T I V E12.30pm- 5pm

ThursdayDECEMBER14

A S T R O P H O T O G R A P H Y8pm

- 10 pmSaturday DECEMBER16Pictures in the DarkLearn from our experts how to take better photos in thedark, especially of nocturnalwildlife, as well as the nightsky. Suitable for amateurphotographers, aged 11yrs+.Please wear warm clothes.At: Ingram Village Hall Cost: £15 (11 years+)(warm refreshments provided)

Sunday DECEMBER17Sill SundayChristmas CeltsThe Celtic love of fire andoak will be shared with youby Wild Dog Outdoors,local living history experts.Have a go at lighting yourown fire and make an oakChristmas keepsake. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £5 per session

Christmas Table Decoration MasterclassJoin Northumbrian Flowers tomake your very own seasonaltable decoration. All materialsand equipment provided, plusfestive afternoon tea and drinkat 12.30pm included in price.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £60 (refreshments included)

F A M I L Y F U N

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45 min sessions duringthe day

J A N U A R Y

DROP IN

11am- 2pm

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G U I D E D W A L K

6.30pm- 10pm

Friday FEBRUARY 2Hepple Gin and Fresh Element at The SillAn afterhours exclusive visit to The Sill to meet one of ourlocal suppliers. Chat to the founders and makers of HeppleGin about the ingredients and processes that go into makingthis unique tipple from Coquetdale. The Sill’s Chefs fromFresh Element will then demonstrate novel ways to cook with gin and you get to eat the results!At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall (NE47 7AN)Cost: £45 per person(discounted tickets of 2 tickets for £80/a group of 6 for £240)

M E E T T H E M A K E RSaturday FEBRUARY 10Stargazing for BeginnersDiscover how to navigate yourway across the Universe byidentifying constellations.Weather permitting we will useour telescopes or binoculars toview the night sky. Please wearwarm clothing. (11 years+)At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child Pre-event dinner see P18

S T A R G A Z I N G

7.30pm- 11pm

Thursday JANUARY 25Alternative Burns Night at The SillCome along to a Northumbrian alternative to Burns night!Celebrate the rich traditions of Scotland’s national poet,Robert Burns, south of the Border with a NorthumbrianCeilidh band, King Cole, and delicious Northumbrian fayre from Fresh Element at The Sill. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £45 (discounted tickets of 2 tickets for £80 / a group of 6 for £240)

B U R N S N I G H T

8pm- 10pm

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10.30am- 2.15pm

Sunday JANUARY 28Ancient Roads in CoquetdaleWe follow part of ClennellStreet drove road up ontothe moorland, and overCopper Snout on this circuit in the hills.At: Alwinton, National ParkCar ParkGrade: Moderate / 8 mileCost: £8

J A N U A R Y

KINGCOLE

F E B R U A R Y

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Saturday FEBRUARY 17

S T A R G A Z I N GF A M I L Y F U NThursday FEBRUARY15

A S T R O P H O T O G R A P H Y8pm

- 10pmFriday FEBRUARY16Pictures in the DarkLearn from our experts how to take better photos in thedark, especially of nocturnalwildlife, as well as our darknight skies. Suitable for amateur photographers,Please wear warm clothes.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £15 (11 years+) Pre-eventdinner available - see P18, Friday 17 November for details

Stone Age SurvivalStone Age Bruach from Wild Dog Outdoors willshow you the tools needed tocatch a fish, hunt a deer or fight off your enemies!Make your own flightedarrow to take home.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £5 per session

S T A R G A Z I N G A N D V A L E N T I N E D I N N E R7pm

- 10pmWednesday FEBRUARY 14Starry-eyed Valentine Dinner at The Sill followed by StargazingDine out in style with the one you love. Enjoy a meal at FreshElement at The Sill, and then go out to view the stars from the rooftop. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to use our excellent telescopes and binoculars to view the beautiful dark sky. Please bring warm clothes to wear outdoors whenstargazing.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: Please see our website for further detailsFor menu and to book a table email:sill@freshelement.co.uk

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8pm- 10pm

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F A M I L Y F U N10.30am- 12noon

WednesdayFEBRUARY 14Wild WednesdayBirds are BrillOur Rangers will help youmake your own binoculars,and take you on a mini safarilooking for birds who makeHadrian’s Wall their home.Build a nest box to take home.*At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £5 (*extra charge)

AND1pm - 2.30pm

45 min sessions duringthe day

Message from MercuryLearn more about the smallestof the eight planets in our solarsystem. Weather permitting,you’ll be able to use our telescopes and binoculars.Please wear warm clothes.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s WallCost: £10 adult / £5 child (11 years+) Pre-event dinneravailable - see P18, Friday 17 November for details

6.30pm- 10pm

Friday MARCH 2Doddington DAIRY and Fresh Element at The SillAn afterhours exclusive visit to The Sill to meet one of our localsuppliers. Chat to the owners of Doddington Dairy, past winners of BBC’s Food & Farming Award, about how theymake their cheese, yoghurt and ice cream. The Sill’s Chefsfrom Fresh Element will then demonstrate novel ways to cookwith these products and you get to eat the results!At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall (NE47 7AN)Cost: £45 per person(discounted tickets of 2 tickets for £80 /a group of 6 for £240)

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Sunday FEBRUARY 25Remote TarsetdaleA circular walk in this remotearea with it's varied historyof Reivers, violent deedsand remnants of the defunctBorder Counties Railway.At: Greenhaugh Car Parknear Hollybush Inn Grade: Moderate / 8 mileCost: £8

G U I D E D W A L K10.30am- 2.15pm

I n t e r n a t i o n a l W o m e n’s D A Y C e l e b r a t i o n12.30pm- 9pm

Thursday MARCH 8International Women’s Day in WoolerA range of FREE drop in sessions including yoga, colourtherapy and crafts. Plus a performance by Werca’s Folk,headed by World renowned folk musician Sandra Kerr. This event will also premier a new short film by AlysounSharpe of Shadowcat Films, featuring the life of Victoriansocial reformer Josephine Butler (who is buried in nearby St Gregory the Great Church in Kirknewton). At: Wooler Tourist Info Centre, Cheviot Centre, Padgepool Place, WoolerFree events

F E B R U A R Y M A R C H

For further events throughout the year keep an eye out:

thesill.org.uk/events

NlandNP

@NlandNP

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S T A R G A Z I N G8pm

- 10pmSaturday MARCH 17Stargazing for BeginnersDiscover how to navigateacross the Universe by identifying constellations.Weather permitting you’ll beable to use our telescopes orbinoculars. Wear warm clothes.At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall Cost: £10 adult / £5 child(11 years+) Pre event dinneravailable - see P18

Friday MARCH 16Pictures in the DarkLearn from our experts how to take better photos in thedark, especially of nocturnalwildlife, as well as our reallydark night skies. Suitable for amateur photographers.Please wear warm clothing.At: Kirknewton Village HallCost: £15 (11 years+)(warm refreshments provided)

N I G H T P H O T O G R A P H Y

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10.30am- 1.30pm

Sunday MARCH 11M O T H E R’s D A Y

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12 noon- 3pm& 8pm

- 10pm

Sill SundayHadrian’s Wall ROCKS with Professor Pumpernickle!How better to celebrate the end of Science Week than joining Professor Pumpernickel's mission to inspire future discoverers and adventurers throughhis mind-blowing experiments.Parental supervision required.Suitable for 5yr olds to 105!At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall3 shows a day: 11am - 12noon, 1pm - 2pm & 2.30 - 3.30pmCost: £6 per person

F A M I L Y F U N11am

- 12 noonSunday MARCH 18 1pm

- 2pm2.30pm- 3.30pm& &

Explosive fun for

everyone

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MOther’s day posy making and afternoon tea at the sillTreat your Mum to a fabulous day out at The Sill. Make a pretty wildflower posy together, to take home, and enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea at Fresh Element at The Sill whilst taking in the stunning view of Hadrian's Wall. At: The Sill, Hadrian’s Wall (NE47 7AN)Cost: £50 for two (morning or afternoon session)

SCHOOLSPROGRAMME

Look out for our Spring & Summer Visitor Guideand Events Programme or keep an eye out on:thesill.org.uk/events

NlandNP

@NlandNP

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F A M I L Y F U N11am- 2pm

SundayMARCH 25

G U I D E D W A L K10.30am- 2.30pm

Sunday MARCH 25Simonside in WinterWe walk up from the river-side onto the SimonsideRidge for great views of theCheviots, before descendingthrough the forest backdown to Rothbury.Meet: Cow Haugh Car Park,RothburyGrade: Moderate / 8 mileCost: £10

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M A R C H

Sill SundayCall of the CurlewFind out all about the Curlews journey in theNational Park.At: The Sill,Hadrian’s WallCost: £2.50* child*PAY ON THE DAY

DROP IN

We believe that the special qualities of Northumberland - its rich history, diverse species of flora and fauna, and greatgeographical features - provide a unique environment forlearning outside the classroom. Our experienced learningstaff and subject specialists can be booked to run sessionsin your school, on sites in Northumberland National Park,and in the excellent teaching facilities within The Sill, alllinked to the National Curriculum.

Explore our offers for different age groups:www.thesill.org.uk/learning/schools

Creative InspiringEngaging InformativeLearning Experiences

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU NEEDASSISTANCE FROM MOUNTAINRESCUE

Call the Police on 999 AND ask forMountain Rescue.

If you are lost, stay where you are. TheMountain Rescue Team will soon be outlooking for you, even in the dark.

BEFORE YOU SET OUT FOR A WALK

Always tell someone where you aregoing, when you expect to be back, andwho to call if you do not return on time.

CARRY THE 10 ESSENTIALS

Map & Compass (know how to use them)

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2

3

4

5

6

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8

9

10

Whistle (to signal searchers if you are lost)

Torch (with spare batteries and bulbto signal searchers at night)

First Aid Kit

Warm Drink & Food

Wind & Waterproof Clothing

Hat & Gloves

Extra Warm Clothes

Emergency Rations

Emergency Shelter (a large poly bag big enough to get into)

Northumberland National Park MountainRescue Team is a volunteer organisation(Registered Charity no. 511313) that provides a vital life saving service 24/7, 365 days a year. The team provides search and mountain rescue services to NorthumbriaPolice, over an operational area that coversall of Northumberland and the Tyne andWear conurbations (some 2159 sq miles).Calls for assistance include search andmountain rescue, and also search and rescue of missing children and vulnerableadults in both rural, and urban settings.

If you would like to help the Mountain Rescue Team by making a donation go to:www.nnpmrt.org

Search & Rescue at work

Mountain Rescue

NNPMRT

thesill.org.uk

NlandNP @NlandNP

The Sill

CHRISTMASFAIR

SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER10AM - 6PM