Ranging from challenging long distance routes 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. We asked a few of Northumberland’s walking experts to give us their highlights on Northumberland’s long distance walks.
Discover castles, golden beaches, wildlife and history on the Northumberland Coast Path. It’s made for walking; if you want something remote, head north of Bamburgh Castle and past Stag Rock to a wilder coast, the sea on one side, sand dunes on the other and on the far horizon stands Lindisfarne Castle. Alternatively, the path from Craster to Dunstanburgh offers a gentler walk, but you’ll love it all, wherever you go, so much so that you’ll be coming back for more.
So much history; at one end Hadrian’s Wall, at the other, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and in between some of the best walking in Northumberland. Perhaps the best section and certainly the most magical is the Pilgrims’ Way, the traditional path between the mainland and Lindisfarne. You’ll never forget it, three miles across the sea, barefoot of course, the mud between your toes and the seals ‘singing’ you a serenade as you walk in the footsteps of the saints.
Hadrian's Wall Path National Trail, is an unbroken 84-mile signposted trail stretching from coast-to-coast, from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-solway in the west.
It passes through some of the most beautiful parts of England - from rolling fields and rugged moorland to the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Carlisle.
If you don't have time to walk the whole route, there are many circular walks available which take in some of the most scenic areas around the Wall.
This cross-border route links the two landmarks perhaps most associated with the iconic religious figure, Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders, and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The route is among the most varied and exciting of its type – encompassing everything from the rugged terrain of the Cheviot Hills, to the enormous sandy beaches of the Northumberland coast. Furthermore, the trail is dotted with ancient castles, churches and abbeys, as well as charming villages and an array of wildlife.
As you follow England’s backbone into the country’s northern outpost ignore the ‘go back, go back, go back’ protestations of the Red Grouse, listen for the plaintive calls in the spring of the ‘Pennine Whistler’, or Golden Plover, and the eerie cries of the Curlew, then immerse yourself in the song of the soaring Skylark, as you cross the ancient frontier of the Roman Empire and the route ahead takes you through England’s most tranquil place, the Northumberland National Park.
The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail is the famous 84-mile long-distance footpath which follows the Wall as it snakes along ridges and crags.
Walk Hadrian’s Wall with modern day Centurion Gambax, discover about life in the Roman Army whilst taking in the spectacular views at Cawfields.
From relaxed family ambles to challenging long distance hill and moorland trails, Northumberland National Park boasts more than 600 miles of marked footpaths and bridleways.
Take inspiration from Northumberland National Park rangers who share their favourite walks to help you put your best foot forward.
Walk in the footsteps of the legendary tea seller and fund raiser Isaac Holden, discovering glorious dales and crossing wild moors with stunning views across the North Pennines.
The 36-mile circular trail starts in Allendale at Isaac’s Well and goes over to Nenthead and Alston and returns by Ninebanks (YHA Ninebanks). The route is way marked and has distinctive Isaac signs.
Thanks to Footsteps - Walking the Beauty of Northumberland, North East Guides, Northern Experience Wildlife Tours and Ancient Britain for sharing their vast knowledge with us.
