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North East

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Gorge of the River Allen with ornamental and ancient woodland

near Ridley Hall, Bardon Mill, Hexham, Northumberland, NE47 7BP

Two women walk their dogs through the woodland at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Important notice

Due to landslips and fallen trees, Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is currently closed to visitors including the toilets. The ground remains in an unstable state so please don't enter the woodland. Please check back for reopening information.

Planning your visit

Landslip covering path at Allen Banks & Staward Gorge
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Allen Banks and Staward Gorge Closure 

Constant rain has caused a landslip at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge, closing the site for the next few months. The closure includes the car park and toilets and visitors are asked to seek alternative walks.

Pool of water surrounded by trees and wild plants
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Susan Davidson - Victorian Wonder Woman 

We have Susan Davidson to thank for Allen Banks & Staward Gorge as it is today. Created over a lifetime's work, her ‘wilderness garden’ is today one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in the county.

Two visitors walking a dog along a leafy woodland path at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge
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Visiting Allen Banks with your dog 

With woodland to explore, sticks, and plenty of ground to cover, Allen Banks is a slice of canine heaven. Bring your dog here for an outdoor treat. Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is a one pawprint rated place. 

A group of people sitting in the woodland at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge outside a wooden structure
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Family-friendly things to do at Allen Banks & Staward Gorge 

Get out into nature and explore ancient woodlands, discover wild animals and take some time out to tackle a few of the activities on your list of ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’. Whether you’re searching for six-legged critters on a bug hunt or building a den, the woodland at Allen Banks is the perfect place for family fun.

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PDF

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge map 

Take a look at the map of Allen Banks and Staward Gorge to help plan your visit.

Two visitors exploring the garden in spring at Quarry Bank, Cheshire

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