English Army Route to Flodden Battlefield (1513)

The anniversary of the Battle of Flodden falls on 9 September.  So it's a good time to re-visit the route which was created to mark the quincentennial of the battle in 2013 – it was first ridden in August of that year. That inaugural ride was memorable because of the drenching we all got.  But it was true to the spirit of history since the weather was very wet at the time of the battle – a major contributor to the defeat of the Scottish Army. Let’s hope it isn’t as wet this time.

The English Army had a major encampment at Wooler Haugh just to the south of Wooler.  Our ride follows the most likely route taken by the English Army commanded by the Earl of Surrey from Wooler Haugh to the Flodden Battlefield.  The route will take us  through some of the loveliest and most tranquil parts of Northumberland.

From Wooler, the ride will go to Weetwood, West Horton and on to Lowick along the Devil's Causeway.  Next, it goes to the entrance to Barmoor Castle caravan park to view the specially commissioned wrought iron Flodden Gates.  Leaving Barmoor, the route heads via Bowsden and Duddo.  We pass close to Tiptoe on the River Till where there are many fording points where the main army crossed over towards the battlefield. Then it’s on to the River Till at Twizel Bridge where the heavy ordnance and the supply train crossed the river. 

After Twizel Bridge the route turns south, skirting the east side of the Pallinsburn estate and going on to the Battlefield monument via Branxton.  After visiting the monument and viewing the battle site.  The ride will return to Wooler via Crookham, Ford and Doddington.

Start is at 10:30 at the Wooler Milk Bar (opens at 08:30) where breakfasts and coffees are available to boost your energy levels for the ride – served from the hatch while Covid-19 precautions are in force.

The aim is to stop at the Bluebell Inn on the A697 near Crookham for lunch. Or, bring your own packed lunch if you prefer.

The ride is all on road.  Distance: 40 Miles. Total ascent is 582m.  Difficulty level is mostly moderate with some strenuous climbs.

Toilets:  There are public toilets at Wooler.  Toilets at pubs and cafes are generally for customers only but may not be open because of Covid-19. 

Wooler Cycle Hub is an affiliated member of Cycling UK (membership number 90176686) and operates its guided rides in accordance with Cycling UK guidelines.