Ryton Willows is a nature reserve on the south bank of the River Tyne. However, on the 28th of August 1640 4500 English soldiers under the command of Lord Conway took up position here to try and stop Alexander Leslie's 20,000 Scots crossing and advancing on Newcastle. Ultimately, he failed, and the Scots crossed forcing a retreat and the fall of Newcastle. The defeat here effectively ended King Charles 1st personal rule and led to the English Civil War in 1642.

Marty McG

January 30, 2022

Hiking

In Edwardian times, the main part of the Willows was the site of a mini fairground with roundabouts, 'shuggy boats' and a café. There were also boats to hire on the ponds. Ryton Willows also sits on the site of the only Registered Battlefield in Tyne and Wear.

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Best routes near Ryton Willows Nature Reserve

4.6

(56)

260

hikers

#1.

River Tyne loop from Wylam to Newburn

11.4km

02:56

50m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.2

(13)

hikers

#2.

George Stephenson's Birthplace – Hagg Bank Bridge loop from Ryton

18.8km

04:51

90m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.3

(6)

hikers

#3.

George Stephenson's Birthplace – Hooty Hoo's Coffee Shop loop from MetroCentre

25.7km

06:32

70m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Details

Informations

Distance 613 m

Uphill 0 m

Weather

Sunday 5 April

13°C

0°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: North East England, England, United Kingdom

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Ryton Willows Nature Reserve

#1.

River Tyne loop from Wylam to Newburn

#2.

George Stephenson's Birthplace – Hagg Bank Bridge loop from Ryton

#3.

George Stephenson's Birthplace – Hooty Hoo's Coffee Shop loop from MetroCentre

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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