With its vast and varied landscapes, Northumberland is the perfect place to get active. From coastal hikes to hilltop cycling, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy — but Northumberland is also home to a host of indoor sports and pursuits. So no matter the season or the weather, you can have fun, get active, and stay healthy on your Northumberland adventure from the Northumberland Coast AONB to the remote Cheviot Hills.
Getting out and about in Northumberland
Northumberland locals and visitors alike are in for a treat with the region’s incredible landscapes. With quaint Northern villages, refreshing Northumberland beaches, and rolling hills and valleys, there’s a terrain for every activity when exploring Northumberland outdoors, including iconic stretches like the Bamburgh coastline and the beaches around Seahouses.
Where is best for walking in Northumberland?
Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an epic hike, the county is brimming with walking routes that explore the most scenic spots in Northumberland. Enjoy the celebrated Bamburgh to Seahouses coastal walk, a scenic trail offering panoramic sea views and a perfect introduction to Northumberland’s rugged shoreline. If you’re looking for a chilled Sunday amble, try a short walk along the Northumberland coast. Perfect for family outings and dog walks, make your way from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle. This short but sweet walking trail showcases the best of the rugged Northumberland coastline and gives you the chance to explore an impressive English Heritage site. (Don’t forget to check our guidance on dog walking across the Northumberland coast. Not only will it protect rare shorebirds for those birdwatching in Northumberland, but it will keep your four-legged friend safe, too). You can also enjoy quieter coastal paths near Howick and Embleton for peaceful nature walks.
And if you’re on the hunt for incredible views, you can’t beat Hadrian’s Wall. Steeped in Northumberland’s history, the area offers 73 miles of dramatic scenery, Roman forts, and an array of long and short trails — no wonder it’s such a popular destination for Northumberland walks and group travels. Why not stop off at Chesters Roman Fort for a pitstop at one of the most historic picnic spots Northumberland has to offer?
The best part of visiting Northumberland is that you’ll never be far from a breathtaking walking trail, no matter where you’re staying. From Bamburgh Castle to Lindisfarne Priory and the magical Alnwick Castle, the county is packed with historical sites surrounded by rural beauty, wherever you stay in Northumberland. Browse our National Trust and English Heritage sites to find your next day out - whether it’s a romantic weekend or a family day out in Northumberland. Don’t miss walking trails around Kielder Forest and the serene lakes of Kielder Water & Forest Park.
The best cycling routes in Northumberland
Keen cyclists are sure to enjoy Northumberland’s fresh air. Bring your own, or hire a bike in Northumberland from Pedal Power. Choose from a huge range of bikes, including mountain, road, and hybrid bikes — you could even enjoy a romantic day out in Northumberland with a tandem bike! Based in Amble town, Pedal Power can deliver your bike to you, wherever you’re staying.
Looking for a bit of guidance? Let the Pedal Power team set you up with maps for a self-guided tour or enjoy a fully supported local ride. Cycling in Northumberland is a great way to see all the county has to offer, even on a short weekend break. Explore iconic routes such as the Alnwick to Seahouses cycleway or the quiet lanes of the North Pennines - cyclists also flock to the traffic-free trails of Kielder and the rolling routes around Alnmouth and Warkworth.
Rock climbing opportunities in Northumberland
See Northumberland from a height with a climbing experience! Exploring, etc. is on hand to provide rock climbing and abseiling sessions for beginners and experienced climbers.
Is the weather preventing you from exploring Northumberland’s rock faces? Go for a family-friendly climb at one of the many leisure centres in Northumberland, including centres in Ponteland and Cramlington.
Where can I canoe or paddle board in Northumberland?
Did you know that Pete from Exploring, etc. also provides guided canoe trips? In pairs or groups, it’s a great way to explore and discover water sports in Northumberland.
Is paddleboarding more your thing? Head to Coquet Shorebase in Amble and make a day of it with a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) experience. If you’re staying around Kielder or Falstone, the Kielder Water and Forest Park is your ultimate destination. Whether a paddleboard, canoe or pleasure boat is your vessel of choice, embrace tranquillity and marvel at panoramic views from the centre of Kielder Lake.
Where are the best swimming pools in Northumberland?
Those looking for a lower-impact water-based activity will be thrilled to discover Northumberland’s wealth of indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Whether you prefer to do lanes or enjoy a gentle wild swim, you’re sure to find the ideal pool or waterway.
For the best of both worlds, visit Haltwhistle. Not only is this historical town close to some of the region’s most popular attractions (including Vindolanda and Housesteads Roman Fort) but it’s also home to the only outdoor swimming pool in Northumberland.
What are the best golf courses in Northumberland?
Some days, a relaxing activity is in order — and what could be more luxurious than a round of golf at a scenic golf course in Northumberland, followed by a spa session in a top Northumberland hotel? Both Matfen Hall Hotel, Spa and Golf Estate and Linden Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa offer the perfect combination of countryside pursuits and opulence - with some of the best spas in Northumberland. Golfers also enjoy the coastal links at Seahouses Golf Club and the scenic courses around Alnmouth.
Fine-tune your downswing then indulge in a spa treatment before tucking into a delicious meal. Many venues showcase local Northumberland produce such as beef, seafood and artisan bakery goods.
Running Events in Northumberland
Looking for a fun and exhilarating activity in Northumberland to join in whilst you are visiting the region? Look no further, as Events of the North, have the toughest and most challenging running marathons, in some of Northumberland’s most-known locations, including Kielder Water and Forest. Fancy taking on their ultimate Northumbrian marathon? Find out more about local running events with Visit Northumberland. Popular routes also include the coastal paths around Holy Island and the historic lanes near Hexham. In addition to these major events in Northumberland, many areas host a number of weekly Park Runs in towns such as Alnwick, Morpeth and Hexham, offering friendly, community-led 5km runs for all abilities.
We recommend after a long and strenuous run through the rugged Northumberland countryside, that you refuel with some local produce at one of our many fantastic Northern restaurants and pubs in Northumberland, serving everything from fresh local seafood to traditional Northern Sunday lunches. Try classics from coastal eateries in Seahouses or countryside pubs around Corbridge.
Explore Northumberland outdoor activities for all the family
Whether you’re a local or you’re visiting the area on holiday, you’ll find a whole host of Northumberland outdoor activities and sports to keep you occupied. From gentle afternoon strolls around ancient Northumberland castles to a weekend of water sports, plan your next Northumberland adventure with Visit Northumberland.