[T_B]

Heading up to the County this weekend, but to the crags further south (Simonside/Sandy/Ravensheugh). Anyone know a decent spot to park up a van for the night somewhere west of Morpeth? Any decent pubs? We once stayed in a cottage in Rothley, but can't remember going to the pub round there. Thanks!

[SA Chris]

Last time we were down that way we got a B&B in Rothbury, but mates parked in the Carp Ark on the S side of the river and had no hassles (it was late in the year though, and I think the campsite was closed). From there you can walk to a selection of pubs and restaurants.

(edit - just had a look on google maps and it's the parking for the sports fields. There also appears to be another smaller car park on the far side of  the sports fields . However, there is also a road that goes behind the sports fields if you take the road before them and then go left, which looks pretty quiet at the end).

Otherwise you could probably park up in the woods at Simonside, but don't think there is a pub in walking distance. Last time we were there though, there seemed to be a few people congregating in the evening, so it might be a popular spot for night partying.

[SA Chris]

Any use?

[T_B]

Didn't go the other weekend, but now after camping (twas my m8's van) also for Simonside area. Guess it sounds as though there's a camp site near Rothbury?

[SA Chris]

Well it's either a campsite or a caravan park, but there is definitely one on the left as you cross river. No idea of name though.

We've used the River Breamish one in Powburn in the past, which is a bit further north, and is a Caravan Club site, with the associated good and bad points.

An OK pub in walking distance too.