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Walking in Northumberland

Labelled 'the best place for walking in the country' by Country Walking Magazine, Northumberland is famous for the variety and quality of its footpaths, bridleways and walker-friendly accommodation.

Northumberland's extensive public footpath network criss-crosses open country and farmland connecting towns and villages throughout the county. From challenging long distance trails with cosy pubs and welcoming guest houses en route, to leisurely circular walks through pretty hamlets and wildlife rich coast and countryside, Northumberland has it all. You can take a guided walk to learn about this beautiful, dramatic county or set out in solitude to discover what makes Northumberland officially England's most tranquil county.

Walking in Kielder Water & Forest Park Walking along the Northumberland Coast

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Easy short walks in Northumberland

What sets Northumberland apart from it's neighbours is the sheer accessibility and diversity of the landscapes. From the flat sands of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to gentle walks through quintessential English villages, this is an area for everyone to enjoy!

Below you will find three short walks, each offering something entirely different for you to discover. But remember, this is only a taste of the exceptional walking here in Northumberland.

Holy Island of Lindisfarne discovery, Northumberland Coast
5km, 2-3hrs
A circular walk around the Holy Island of Lindisfarne ideal for those who want to explore all that the island has to offer.

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Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland Coast
9.5km, 3-4hrs
A delightfully varied walk featuring wide, unspoilt beaches, the ruins of a once glorious castle and the chance to sample Craster Kippers!

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Blanchland and the Derwent Valley, North Pennines
2km, less than 1hr
A timeless riverside stroll through the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and one of England's oldest and most picturesque villages.

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Moderate difficulty short walks in Northumberland

If you are up for more of a challenge, the moderate difficulty walks will reward you with some of the finest scenery in Northumberland. From an invigorating walk along the most visually stunning section of Hadrian's Wall to hike's through remote areas of the Northumberland National Park, the moderate difficulty walks allow you to discover this most beautiful county on foot.

Below you will find six moderate difficulty short walks, each offering something entirely different for you to discover. But remember, this is only a taste of the exceptional walking here in Northumberland.

Sycamore Gap to Housesteads Roman Fort, Hadrian's Wall
11km, 4-5hrs
This classic route follows the most complete and visually stunning part of the Roman wall taking in Housesteads Roman Fort.

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Rothbury & Coquetdale discovery, Northumberland National Park
8km, 2-3hrs
Spend a day walking in the quiet hills around Rothbury, with beautiful heather moors and stunning views of the Cheviot Hills.

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Humbleton Hill, The Cheviot Hills
6.5km, 2-3hrs
An exhilarating walk to the top of Humbleton Hill to discover an Iron Age hillfort and the breathtaking panoramic views.

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Lambley & the South Tyne valley, North Pennines
13km, 3-4hrs
Experience the open moorland and wonderful birdlife of the North Pennines, before taking in the views from the impressive 110ft high Lambley viaduct.

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Copper Snout, Cheviot Hills, Northumberland National Park
13km, 4-5hrs
Following the line of Clennel Street, an ancient drove road, this walk takes you up into the hills for breath-taking views of the surrounding national park.

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Bolam Lake to Shaftoe Crags, near Morpeth
10km, 2-3hrs
An eclectic mix of peaceful farmland, border defences, weird and wonderful rock formations, and woodland and lake views.