June 20, 2024
Are you an avid walker on the hunt for your next great adventure? Imagine a place where you can explore ancient ruins, meander through lush valleys, and even encounter rare wildlife, all in a single day's walk. Welcome to Northumberland, a walker's paradise that offers some of the most diverse and captivating trails in the UK.
In this guide, we've curated a list of the top 10 walks in Northumberland that promise to take you on a journey through stunning landscapes and rich history. From the iconic Pennine Way to the charming Corbridge to Aydon Castle circular walk, there's something here for every type of walker. So lace up your boots and get ready to explore the best that Northumberland has to offer!
Before we start, you may also be interested in the top 10 things to do in Northumberland.
The Sycamore Gap walk is a popular circular route that offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure. Starting at Housesteads Roman Fort, a significant historical site on Hadrian's Wall, the walk takes you through a variety of landscapes. You'll traverse woodland areas and open countryside before reaching the iconic Sycamore Gap, where a lone sycamore tree stands in a gap created by ancient glacial meltwater.
The route is not just about reaching the destination; it's about enjoying the journey. As you walk along Hadrian's Wall, you'll have the opportunity to admire the surrounding landscape, which offers stunning views of the wall itself and the countryside beyond. The walk is not without its challenges, featuring steep climbs and descents that can be slippery and muddy, especially in wet conditions. Therefore, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for some physical exertion.
The walk is well-marked and includes several key points of interest:
To round off your journey, you have a couple of delightful options. You can either return to the Twice Brewed Inn for a hearty pub feast or, if you're accompanied by a four-legged friend, visit one of Northumberland's dog-friendly pubs.
For more details, check out our post on walking Hadrian’s Wall.
The Elsdon Burn Walk is a family-friendly trail that combines the beauty of nature with a rich historical backdrop. Starting from the car park in Elsdon, the walk takes you along the Elsdon Burn, a charming river that meanders through the village. The trail is steeped in history, featuring landmarks like a 12th-century church, which is said to house the souls of those who perished in the 1388 Battle of Otterburn. You'll also encounter ruins of a motte-and-bailey fortress, a medieval Pele tower, and a tavern.
As you make your way through the village and beyond, you'll find the route well-marked and easy to follow. After crossing a bridge, you'll take a right-hand fork in the road, signed Newcastle, and continue along a path that runs parallel to a field. The trail includes various points of interest, such as crossing a sleeper bridge, passing in front of a house known as the Haining, and walking through a young plantation. The terrain varies, offering both flat and uphill sections, making it a moderately challenging but rewarding experience.
Here's a breakdown of the key points along the route:
The highlight of the walk is undoubtedly Gallow Hill, which offers panoramic views over Elsdon, the historic capital of Redesdale. Once you've soaked in the scenery, you can head back to the village and reward yourself with a drink at the Bird in Bush bar or enjoy a cuppa at the Impromptu Tea Room.
This delightful walk takes you on a journey from the picturesque village of Corbridge to the historical Aydon Castle, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical fascination. The route is well-signposted and traverses a variety of terrains, making it an ideal outing for those looking to explore the outskirts of Corbridge.
Key Information:
Route Highlights:
This walk is a fantastic way to experience both the natural and historical beauty of the area, from lime kilns and farmlands to an ancient castle. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to enjoy a pleasant walk, this route offers something for everyone, plus the added bonus of delicious treats from Grant's Bakery.
The Hareshaw Linn Waterfall walk is a journey into the heart of Northumberland's natural beauty. Starting from the Northumberland National Park car park at Hareshaw Linn in Bellingham, this walk takes you along the Hareshaw Burn River to one of the UK's most stunning waterfalls. The area is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a haven for biodiversity. Classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Hareshaw Linn is home to over 300 species of mosses, liverworts, and lichen, as well as a variety of wildlife including red squirrels and woodpeckers.
The walk is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. As you set out, you'll pass Foundry Farm, which once housed the offices of foundry managers during the mid-1800s when the area was an ironworks site. Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of this industrial past, such as mounds made from the spoil of ovens that once supplied coke to the ironworks. The path also takes you past an old dam and through an area that was once a quarry, providing stone for the miners' houses.
Here's a step-by-step guide to the key points along the route:
The trail offers a variety of experiences, from climbing steps and crossing bridges to walking through ancient woodland. One of the highlights is 'Cupid's Bower', a seat overlooking the waterfall, which provides a perfect spot for contemplation or photography. The area's unique microclimate, resembling that of an ancient rainforest, supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
The Rothbury Riverside Walk offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and village charm, making it an ideal choice for families and their four-legged companions. Located in the hillside village of Rothbury, known for its lively high street and scenic riverbanks, this walk is a short but fulfilling experience. The starting point is the Beggar's Rigg Car Park and Picnic Site, easily accessible by following the B6341 west out of Rothbury. The walk takes you along the banks of the River Coquet, offering ample opportunities for picnics and relaxation.
The route is well-marked and suitable for a variety of users, including those with pushchairs and wheelchairs. However, it's worth noting that parts of the path may flood when the river level is high. From the car park, you'll follow the path signed 'Lady's Bridge,' zigzagging your way down to the river. Once you reach the river, you have the option to turn left and head into the village of Rothbury or continue along the riverside path. The latter option takes you past a children's play area and up to Haw Hill, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Here's a breakdown of the key points along the route:
The walk offers a variety of experiences, from the tranquillity of the riverside to the bustling atmosphere of Rothbury village. Along the way, you'll find numerous spots to lay down a picnic blanket and enjoy the scenery. If you prefer, you can head back to Rothbury village for a break at one of the many eateries that offer hot drinks and meals, many of which are dog-friendly.
The Simonside Hills walk is a moderate, circular route that offers a rural adventure for walkers of all levels. Taking up to 3 hours to complete, this walk is a journey through diverse landscapes, from forested areas to heather moorlands. The highlight of the walk is undoubtedly the summit of Simonside, which offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Cheviot Hills and the North Sea coastline. The area is also rich in wildlife, including curlews, red grouses, mountain bumblebees, emperor moths, and even red squirrels.
Starting from the wooden information shelter near the car park entrance, the walk follows red waymarkers. You'll initially turn left onto a forest road, passing around a wooden barrier and continuing uphill. At various junctions, you'll follow the red route waymarkers, making your way through the forest and eventually reaching a grassy path that leads to Little Church Rock. This spot is worth a visit for its historical significance, as it was a gathering place for illicit preachings during medieval times and also features Bronze Age burial cairns.
Here's a step-by-step guide to the key points along the route:
The walk is a mix of short, steep sections and more leisurely stretches, making it a moderately challenging but rewarding experience. The path can be steep and slippery in places, so caution is advised. Once you've completed the walk, you can either enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic lookouts or head back to Rothbury, where numerous bars and cafes offer hot drinks and meals.
The Breamish Valley Hillfort Trail is a vigorous hill hike that takes you through five ancient hillforts, offering breathtaking views of the Northumberland National Park. This trail is particularly popular among those who enjoy panoramic vistas and a touch of history. The walk explores the ruins of Brough Law and Cochrane Pike, providing a glimpse into the area's rich past. The surrounding hills are listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, meaning they are legally protected. Given the steep and exposed nature of the trail, it's essential to wear good walking boots and carry warm, waterproof clothing and snacks.
Starting from Bulby's Wood car park, the trail begins with a steep uphill climb, following a path signed 'Brough Law ¾'. Once you reach the top, you'll find yourself at the Brough Law Hillfort, which features massive stone walls that have tumbled over time but still give an idea of the original ramparts' scale. After exploring the hillfort, the trail continues along a narrow path around its outside, leading you through a series of stiles, fields, and other hillforts, including Middle Dean Hillfort and Cochrane Pike.
Here's a step-by-step guide to the key points along the route:
The trail is not only a physical challenge but also a journey through time, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The hilltops can be very exposed, especially in poor weather, so it's crucial to come prepared. As the area is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, visitors are urged to respect the landscape and leave it as they find it.
The Otterburn Ranges offer a high-level trek across a wild and unspoiled section of the Northumberland National Park. This area, which comprises about a fifth of the park, is rich in biodiversity and is often used for military drills. The trek provides an opportunity to spot a variety of species, including wild goats, moorland birds, and the rare black grouse, which is unique to the park. Before embarking on this trek, it's crucial to review the Access Area Guidelines and be aware that some areas may be restricted due to live ammunition firing when red flags are flying.
The trek starts from a car park and leads uphill to the grass-covered remains of the Roman fort of Chew Green. From there, you'll head uphill to join the border fence and follow it to the summit of Brownhart Law, which offers extensive views east to The Cheviot and north into Scotland. The trail then takes you into Scotland, where you'll pass through heather and over Greystone Brae, eventually leading you to the summit of Blackhall Hill, crowned by ancient tumuli. The views from this point are spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Here's a step-by-step guide to the key points along the route:
The terrain consists of mountain footpaths, some of which can be boggy, and windswept hills. Therefore, boots and windproof clothing are necessary. The trek can be accessed by car, taking the B6341 west from Rothbury for 4 miles, then turning right on a minor road through Alwinton and Barrowburn. Refreshments can be found at the Rose and Thistle Inn in Alwinton.
The Otterburn Ranges trek is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering both a physical challenge and a journey through time. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Greenlee Lough is Northumberland's largest natural lake, offering a tranquil setting for a walk through diverse habitats. Located to the north of the Great Whin Sill and viewable from Hadrian's Wall, the lake is surrounded by marshes that form a mosaic of ecosystems. These ecosystems are home to a wide range of plants and wildlife, making it a haven for bird-watchers, botanists, and nature enthusiasts.
The walk to Greenlee Lough is a circular route that starts and ends at a permissive car park. It takes you through wetlands, pastures, and woodlands, offering varying sceneries depending on the season. A 500-metre boardwalk spans across peat and reed beds, providing an excellent opportunity to spot wildlife. The walk is suitable for families, geologists, bird-watchers, and botanists, and is particularly rewarding at dawn or dusk when shy deer or foxes may be seen.
Here's a step-by-step guide to key points along the route:
The walk offers a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Northumberland's rich natural heritage.
The Pennine Way is one of the most iconic long-distance footpaths in the UK, stretching for 268 miles (431 km) from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. Opened in 1965, it was the first National Trail in England and has since become a symbol of public access to the country's wild landscapes. The trail traverses through some of England's most stunning and varied terrains, including the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Lake District, and Northumberland National Park.
The Pennine Way is not just a walk; it's a journey through history and natural beauty. It begins at Kinder Scout in Edale, the site of the 1932 Mass Trespass, which was a pivotal moment in the struggle for public access to private land in the UK. The trail then takes you through a series of breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and wildlife areas, including three National Parks and various National Nature Reserves.
Here are some key points and recommendations for those considering the Pennine Way:
Walking the Pennine Way is much more than a physical challenge; it's an experience that makes you part of England's rich history of access to its beautiful landscapes.
Here are some great resources for exploring Northumberland:
Thanks to the following for their fantastic photos:
Jonny Gios on Unsplash
