Williamston Common

Downs, Moorland in Northumberland

England

Williamston Common

Old railway route approaching Slaggyford The railway route once connected Alston with Haltwhistle. Part of that route still operates out of Alston as a narrow gauge tourist attraction, but only as far as Slaggyford Station which is in view in the distance at the centre of the image. That part of the rail-bed behind the camera position is the route of two named walks, &#039;A Pennine Journey&#039; and the River Tyne Trail. The course of the Pennine Way is also very nearby. — Old railway route approaching Slaggyford Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Located in the county of Northumberland, England, Williamston Common is a vast area encompassing downs, moorland, and other natural landscapes. Covering an approximate area of several square miles, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities.

The downs of Williamston Common are characterized by their rolling hills and open grasslands. These areas provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can often spot a variety of bird species, including skylarks, meadow pipits, and kestrels.

The moorland section of Williamston Common showcases a different kind of natural beauty. Dense heather covers the vast expanse, creating a vibrant purple landscape during the blooming season. It is home to several rare plant species and provides a habitat for various wildlife, such as adders, rabbits, and foxes.

Walking trails crisscross the common, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse terrain. The most renowned trail is the Williamston Way, a well-marked route that guides hikers through the most scenic parts of the area. Along the way, walkers can also glimpse ancient archaeological sites, including burial mounds and stone circles.

Williamston Common is managed by the local authorities, ensuring its preservation and protection for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and adhere to designated paths to minimize any disturbance to the wildlife and fragile ecosystems.

Overall, Williamston Common is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique blend of downs, moorland, and historical sites, all waiting to be discovered and admired.

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Williamston Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.865768/-2.4782534 or Grid Reference NY6952. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old railway route approaching Slaggyford

The railway route once connected Alston with Haltwhistle. Part of that route still operates out of Alston as a narrow gauge tourist attraction, but only as far as Slaggyford Station which is in view in the distance at the centre of the image. That part of the rail-bed behind the camera position is the route of two named walks, 'A Pennine Journey' and the River Tyne Trail. The course of the Pennine Way is also very nearby.

Trevor Littlewood

Fields descending towards Lintley Halt

An embankment of the South Tynedale Railway can be seen entering the image at the lower left side of the image; the small building at Lintley Halt shows as a pale object just below trees. The valley of the Barhaugh Burn extends into the distance beyond that of the River South Tyne.

Trevor Littlewood

Slaggyford Station

Sandy Gerrard

Ready for the return trip: Green Dragon at Slaggyford

At the northern terminus of the South Tynedale Railway, the Green Dragon heads back to hitch up the carriages for the 1430 hrs return to Alston Station. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

The approach to Lintley Halt Station on the South Tynedale Railway

The path alongside is the South Tyne Trail to Haltwhistle.

Clive Nicholson

South Tynedale Railway just south of Lintley Halt Station

Clive Nicholson

The South Tynedale Railway bridge over Thornhope burn

The path alongside the railway is the South Tyne Trail to Haltwhistle.

Clive Nicholson

The South Tynedale Railway heading under an A689 road bridge

The path alongside is the South Tyne Trail to Haltwhistle.

Clive Nicholson

Slaggyford Station - narrow gauge line

Station closed 1976, now part of the South Tyne Railway.

Peter Moore

The Pennine Way leaving the A689 at Slaggyford

Dave Kelly

The Pennine Way leaving Slaggyford

Dave Kelly

Slaggyford Station

A picture of serenity on a warm August day. Despite this being a Wednesday, the South Tynedale Railway is operating to facilitate a coach party (and of course members of the general public). This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Siding south of Slaggyford

A view from the adjacent path at the buffers of a small siding south of Slaggyford station on the South Tynedale Railway. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

The A689 crosses the South Tynedale Railway near Lintley

The view is captured alongside the railway on a cycle from Haltwhistle to Alston. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

A crossing of the South Tynedale Railway near Lintley

This crossing permits access to farmland east of the South Tynedale Railway. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Lintley Halt on the South Tynedale Railway

A view of the halt just after the 1500 hrs service from Alston has passed through en route to Slaggyford. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

The Pennine Way near Lintley

Dave Kelly

The Pennine Way near Williamston

Dave Kelly

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Williamston Common is located at Grid Ref: NY6952 (Lat: 54.865768, Lng: -2.4782534)

Unitary Authority: Northumberland

Police Authority: Northumbria

What 3 Words

///ribcage.northward.recital. Near Alston, Cumbria

Nearby Locations

Williamston Common Stokeld Green

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