Video transcript
I’m very fortunate that I don’t have to leave my house to see kites. I watch them from
my window. If I was less fortunate in a Tyneside conurbation then I would be very
grateful to Go Northeast after the launch in 2007 of their Red Kite bus which travels
via the Metrocentre right through Gateshead’s kite country up the Derwent Valley.
To get out and see these fantastic birds is simplicity itself. Just look in Eldon Square,
Newcastle or on the road for the double award winning Red Kite bus and ask to be
dropped off at the start of the red kite trail.
The trail is in total eleven miles long but can be walked in much shorter stretches
because the bus stops are very convenient. Look for a leaflet in your local library.
The Red Kite trail was designed and way marked and, where necessary, cleared by
myself and other volunteers during 2007 and launched in May 2008. The idea being
to link partner facilities in the valley, provide details of the best places to see kites
and how to get there.
Of course, we not only have kites in the valley but a wide variety of other wildlife.
From wild flowers to mammals and insects, as well as many other bird species. This
is main reason I’m involved with the trail. A great variety of life for longish lengths
makes it a new experience every time one travels through any part.
Along the first 5 miles of the trail along the Derwent walk there is also much to see of
local history. Including two viaducts from about 86 to 90 feet high, a medieval manor
house, a loco shed not forgetting the expanse of Gibside estate – a must see place
can always be seen as you walk.
Into Rowlands Gill and across the river again on a section I walk regularly and a
glimpse of medieval religious history and within a few yards another of only a
hundred years ago.
At Lintz Green station we leave the Derwent walk through the tranquil hamlet of
Lintzford where I was born. Stop as you cross the river, what can you see over the
parapets?
Now cross the road into Chopwell wood. A climb now but a little higher and you can
stop at the bird of prey view point if only for a rest but the view is great plus there will
probably be kites to see. Come back to Chopwell wood another time, there is so
much to do.
Out of the wood, keep looking for kites. Into open country and a little lane walking
towards the highest point on the trail at Barlow. Visit the pub car park to view the
Barlow Burn valley. You’d be unlucky not to see kites from here. Pop into the bar and
enjoy a glass of ale before the last stretch which is all downhill from here through
fields and woods.
I couldn’t say I have any favourite spot on the trail but two points on or just off are
excellent places from where to see large expanses of the valley. One on the south
side looking north and, getting further round, on the other side, on the north side
looking back south.
Will always remember seeing the kites very close from one of the viaducts on the Derwent Valley walk - huge and beautifulPosted on 01/11/2009 at 01:08:37