10 Best Walks in Northumberland: A Practical Guide

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.

Best Walks in Northumberland

1. Sycamore Gap

  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Distance: 2.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Iconic sycamore tree, Hadrian's Wall, Housesteads Roman Fort

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:

  1. Start: Outside The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, where parking and facilities are available.
  2. Peel Bothy Cottage: Cross the road to continue on the path.
  3. Steep Stone Path: A challenging but rewarding climb.
  4. Milecastle 39: A point of historical interest along Hadrian's Wall.
  5. Sycamore Gap: The iconic landmark and a perfect spot for photos.
  6. Grassy Track: Turn right and continue along this scenic route.
  7. Gate: Turn left through the gate to head back towards the starting point.

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.

2. Elsdon Burn

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Distance: 2.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: 12th-century church, Gallow Hill, Bird in Bush bar

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:

  1. Start: Car park in Elsdon.
  2. Bridge and Village Green: Cross the bridge back into the village and follow the road to Newcastle and Morpeth.
  3. Fork in the Road: Take the right-hand fork, signed Newcastle.
  4. Haining: Follow the path along the edge of the field and continue up the road to the Haining.
  5. Grassy Path: Turn left at the gap in the wall and continue through the young plantation.
  6. Gallow Hill: Admire the spectacular views from the highest point.
  7. Hillhead Cottage: Follow the wall to the gate in the corner of the field and head towards Hillhead Cottage.
  8. Return to Elsdon: Follow the main road back to the village.

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.

3. Corbridge to Aydon Castle Circular Walk

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Distance: 6 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

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:

  • Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
  • Ascent: 172 m
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Terrain: Main roads, farmland, and some riverside paths.
  • Parking: Free parking is available in the village car park.

Route Highlights:

  1. Start at Corbridge Village Car Park: Begin your adventure at the village car park. Cross the Corbridge Bridge and take a right turn at the Angel pub, walking along the main street. This stretch is home to historical buildings like Low Hall, the oldest house in Corbridge.
  2. Grant's Bakery: Before venturing too far, consider stopping by Grant's Bakery. Come and say hi to us and pick up some treats for your walk.
  3. Thornborough Farmhouse: Continue along the main road until you see a finger post on your left. Follow this path to arrive at Thornborough farmhouse.
  4. Cross the A69: Proceed along the path until you reach a stile near the A69. Cross over the A69 via the bridge and follow the road to the left.
  5. Disused Lime Kiln: This area is a great photo spot and offers the chance to hear birds like the Yellowhammer and Whitethroat.
  6. Aydon Village: Turn left into the village of Aydon, a charming place bustling with farming activity.
  7. Aydon Castle: After crossing a field and some woodland, you'll arrive at Aydon Castle. This 13th-century castle is managed by English Heritage and has an entry fee for those wishing to explore further.
  8. Return to Corbridge: The return route takes you through additional woodland and fields, offering stunning vistas. Eventually, you'll join up with Deadridge Lane, which leads back to the village.

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.

4. Hareshaw Linn

  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Distance: 3 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Cascading waterfall, rare ferns and lichen

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:

  1. Start: Northumberland National Park car park at Hareshaw Linn.
  2. Foundry Farm: Observe the stone terrace and the bubbling water of the 'well'.
  3. Old Dam: Walk through the gate to see the dam on your left.
  4. Open Area: Overlook a small waterfall and the spoil from an old quarry.
  5. Steps and Mine Entrances: Climb up the steps and pass blocked-up mine entrances.
  6. Ancient Woodland: Walk through the 'Linn' proper, filled with oak, hazel, elm, and ash.
  7. Bridges and Bandstand: Cross multiple bridges and pass by a Victorian 'bandstand'.
  8. Waterfall: Reach the awe-inspiring Hareshaw Linn Waterfall.

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.

5. Rothbury Riverside

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Distance: 1.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: River Coquet, hillside village, eateries

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:

  1. Start: Beggar's Rigg Car Park and Picnic Site.
  2. Lady's Bridge: Follow the path down to the river.
  3. Riverside Path: Turn left and walk alongside the River Coquet.
  4. Alternative Route: Turn left before the play park to head into Rothbury village.
  5. Haw Hill: Just before the road bridge, turn left and climb up to Haw Hill.
  6. Churchyard: Pass through the churchyard and explore Rothbury village.
  7. Return: Retrace your steps back to the car park.

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.

6. Simonside Hills

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Distance: 4.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Summit views of Cheviot Hills and North Sea coastline, wildlife

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:

  1. Start: Wooden information shelter near the car park.
  2. Forest Road: Follow the red waymarkers uphill.
  3. Little Church Rock: Turn left onto a grassy path to visit this historical site.
  4. Footpath: Before two large boulders, take the left footpath uphill.
  5. Criss Cross Rock: Observe the large flat stone with curved grooves.
  6. Heather Moorland: Take the left-hand path up and over to meet the red gravel forest road.
  7. Steep Crags: Follow the footpath steeply up the crags.
  8. Summit of Simonside: Reach the stone cairn marking the summit.
  9. Old Stell Crag: Descend the stone steps.
  10. Dove Crag: Follow the path steeply downhill.
  11. Forest Track: Turn left onto the track.
  12. Coe Burn: Turn right after crossing the burn.
  13. Return: Follow the path downhill back to the car park.

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.

7. Breamish Valley Hillfort Trail

  • Duration: 3.5 hours
  • Distance: 4.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Hillforts, panoramic views, ancient landscape

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:

  1. Start: Bulby's Wood car park.
  2. Uphill Climb: Follow the path to the top of the hill.
  3. Brough Law Hillfort: Explore the hillfort and its views.
  4. Narrow Path: Turn right around the outside of the hillfort.
  5. Grassy Track: Continue straight on the wide grassy track.
  6. Brow of the Hill: Follow the path as it bears left.
  7. Field Corner: Keep the fence on your left and go straight.
  8. Middle Dean Hillfort: Go over the stile and explore the hillfort.
  9. Next Stile: Continue up to the left to the next stile.
  10. Cochrane Pike: Turn left upon reaching Cochrane Pike.
  11. Next Hillfort: Turn left just before the next hillfort.
  12. Junction: Bear left at the junction.
  13. Wicket Gate: Pass through at the bottom of the hill.
  14. Another Wicket Gate: Pass through another gate.
  15. Grassy Track: Turn right onto the wide grassy track.
  16. Stone Track: Turn left onto the stone track.

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.

8. Otterburn Ranges

  • Duration: 4.5 hours
  • Distance: 8.2 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Wild goats, moorland birds, military drills

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:

  1. Start: From the car park, follow the track uphill to Chew Green.
  2. Brownhart Law: Head uphill to join the border fence and follow it to the summit.
  3. Into Scotland: Go through a gate in the border fence and follow the track through heather.
  4. Blackhall Hill: Reach the summit, which offers wonderful views.
  5. The Law: Descend to a gate and go through it to reach the summit of Woden Law, home to an extensive hillfort.
  6. Descend to the End: Retrace your route to the second gate and follow the Dere Street track back to the car park.

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.

9. Greenlee Lough

  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Distance: 3.4 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Highlights: Northumberland's largest natural lake, wetlands birds

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:

  1. Start at the Permissive Car Park: Turn right along the minor road, cross the Caw Burn over the humpback bridge and head uphill.
  2. Finger Post to Greenlee Nature Reserve: Go through the wicket gate and walk over the 'fell ground', following the line of electricity poles. Pass through three wicket gates and continue along the side of the wood to the start of the boardwalk.
  3. Boardwalk: Walk along the boardwalk, which was installed to protect the fragile wetland habitat. Please keep to the boardwalk at all times and take care when it's wet or during times of flood.
  4. Junction on the Boardwalk: Keep to the boardwalk that heads around the Lough, walking through reed beds.
  5. End of the Boardwalk: Follow the waymarked path with the fence on your left over rough ground. Go through the wicket gate at the corner of the wood and continue along the edge of the woodland.
  6. Bird Hide: Climb over the stile on your right to reach the Bird Hide, an ideal place to observe wildlife on the Lough.
  7. Return to the Permissive Car Park: Retrace your steps back to the stile and turn right, continuing through the meadow. At the finger post, turn left and walk uphill towards Greenlee Farm House, then follow the footpath back to the car park.

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.

10. Pennine Way

  • Duration: 4 days
  • Distance: 64 miles
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Highlights: Highland scenery, Hadrian’s Wall Path, Cheviot Hills

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:

  1. Start and End Points: The trail starts at Edale in Derbyshire and ends at Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders.
  2. Length: The trail is 268 miles long and is recommended for experienced walkers due to its challenging nature.
  3. Terrain: The trail offers a variety of terrains, from smooth and firm paths to narrow, uneven, wet, and boggy sections. Waterproofs and plenty of dry socks are advised.
  4. Best Time to Walk: The best months to walk the Pennine Way are from mid-May to September. However, the trail can be walked all year round, with snow expected in the northern sections in winter.
  5. Rest Days: Consider scheduling rest days at places like Hebden Bridge, Skipton, Hawes, Appleby, or the Hadrian’s Wall area to explore the surroundings.
  6. Wildlife and Nature: The trail passes through some of the best landscapes and wildlife areas in England, making it one of the best places in Europe to see birds like breeding waders in the spring and early summer.
  7. Historical Sites: The trail includes a significant piece of Hadrian’s Wall Path and other historical landmarks like Stoodley Pike, Top Withins, Malham Cove, Pen-y-Ghent, Tan Hill, High Force, Cauldron Snout, High Cup Nick, Cross Fell, and The Cheviot.
  8. Challenges: With a combined ascent that exceeds the height of Mount Everest, the Pennine Way is arguably the most challenging National Trail in England.
  9. Northumberland National Park: A 64-mile portion of the route runs through the Northumberland National Park, highlighting the best features of the park, from ancient ruins in the south to the Cheviot Hills in the north.

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.

Related Reading

Here are some great resources for exploring Northumberland:

Thanks to the following for their fantastic photos:

Jonny Gios on Unsplash