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Originally two 'Viewpoints' sat on opposite shores, visible from either side, but remote destinations. Only the north Viewpoint at Needs Hill is now still in place. Viewpoints is a physical three-dimensional representation of the Ordnance Survey symbol for a viewpoint and as such this sculpture questions existing ideas of what makes a picturesque view, offers a frame for the landscape and encourages a visitor to consider the experience of looking.
Viewpoints are located along the Lakeside Way north shore. Starting from Kielder Castle Visitor Centre, follow directions to the Lakeside Way north shore, and then continue along the track for 3.25 miles/5.25 km (approximately 1 hour 10 minutes walk time) until a short, signed path leads off the main track and down the sculpture.
While the route is accessible to all, please note that wheelchair users might wish to take care on the path that leads to the viewpoint.
A good way to explore all the artworks along the Lakeside Way is by cycle. Bikes should be to at least hybrid cycle grade with decent country tyres for the changing terrain of Kielder Water & Forest Park.
OS map ref: NY662903
The Viewpoints sculpture sits on the Lakeside Way between Silvas Capitalis to the west and Janus Chairs to the east, while across the lake visitors can see the jetties of Hawkhirst Scout Camp.
The large expanse of water in front of Viewpoints was once the site of Plashett's Station, a stop on the Border Counties Railway that ran up the north Tyne valley from Hexham to Riccarton Junction across the border and then through to Edinburgh. The line was last used in the late 1950's.
