Allen Banks & Staward Gorge NT

08/04/2026

A lovely article from about "one of Northumberland's most enchanting walks" at Allen Banks & Staward Gorge.

https://www.livingnorth.com/article/four-fabulous-family-friendly-walks

North East National Trust

Whether you're looking for a coastal stroll (with fish and chips at the end, of course) or an enchanting woodland walk, try one of these routes this weekend.

02/04/2026

Allen Banks circa 1925.

(Photo with kind permission of the Llewellyn family)

North East National Trust

18/03/2026

Butterbur appear in early spring and are an early source of food for bees.

Long before fridges, butter was wrapped in butterbur leaves to protect it and keep it cool, hence the name. It is also known as bog rhubarb, due to its large leaves and preference for wet soil. (Thanks to the Royal Horticultural Society for those facts).

(Photo: Dan Madden)

North East National Trust

08/03/2026

We can't celebrate without a shout-out for Susan Davidson (1796–1877), Victorian wonder woman and creator of Allen Banks as we know it.

Susan worked on the northern end of Allen Banks for 35 years creating a 'wilderness garden', laying out 65 flower beds in the formal gardens and organised the system of paths, rustic bridges and summer houses as well as developing woodland by the River Allen. She created viewpoints, avenues of beech trees and a boating tarn, planting many of the trees and shrubs we see today - moulding and enhancing the landscape, and revealing its dramatic beauty.

Susan was active, bright and not afraid to speak her mind or indeed to put dreams into action. Thank you Susan and Happy International Women's Day to all!

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

02/02/2026

There will tree safety management works in Allen Banks and Morralee the week commencing 23rd February. For health and safety, please observe footpath closures and diversions. Thank you for your understanding.

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

North East National Trust

27/01/2026

The word 'tarn' originates from the Old Norse word ,tjörn', which refers to a small mountain lake, pool, or 'teardrop'.

It's historically used in Northern England to describe small lakes or ponds.

Morralee Tarn at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is home to woodpeckers, nuthatches and treecreepers - follow the purple waymarkers to find the tarn.

North East National Trust

12/01/2026

What is better than a tree? How about thousands of trees?

With a mix of ancient trees and other flora, Allen Banks and Staward Gorge covers 250-hectares (617-acres) and is the largest area of ancient semi-natural woodland in Northumberland.

Sometimes, bigger is better!

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

North East National Trust

24/12/2025

From the team at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge - we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We hope you enjoyed walking, playing, thinking and getting back to nature in Allen Banks & Staward Gorge this year. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Allen Banks is open every day, from dawn until dusk throughout the Christmas holidays and beyond.

See you next year!

(Photo: James Barclay)

East National Trust

10/12/2025

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is a great spot for a dog walk. With woodlands to explore, sticks to carry and water to splash in, it's canine heaven.

We ask that you follow our Canine Code to help us keep the countryside a safe, healthy and enjoyable place for you and your dog, other visitors, wildlife and livestock.

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

North East National Trust

10/11/2025

There’s something quietly majestic about trees. They remind us of nature’s rhythm and resilience.

Next time you visit Allen Banks & Staward Gorge, take a moment to pause beneath a tree. Feel its strength, hear its story. And know that together, we’re helping nature thrive.

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

North East National Trust

15/10/2025

Autumn has arrived at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge. It's a beautiful place in all seasons but something special happens in autumn - visit and let us know if you agree!

(Photo: Cal Thompson)

North East National Trust