Walking In Northumberland

For those who are all about getting their hiking boots on, then Northumberland is a fantastic place to visit as the county is full of long trails which take you through some of the most spectacular sights that Northumberland has to offer.

One of the most impressive long hikes in Northumberland is the Northumberland Coast Path, which takes visitors across the beautiful coastline, high sand dunes and a great variety of wildlife. Stretching 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, walkers will see sandy beaches, rocky headlands, dramatic castles and attractive coastal villages. Most of the paths are public rights of way, but in some places, beaches, minor roads, tracks and permissive paths must be used. The route is generally level with a few steep climbs, and the walking surface is generally good; however, it can become muddy and slippery in winter or after heavy rainfall.

Another long walk, which is incredible throughout Northumberland, is Hadrian’s Wall, which allows you to follow in the footsteps of the Romans! Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail is a famous 84-mile-long footpath which follows the Wall as it snakes along ridges. Whilst there are plenty of shorter routes that let you experience the wall, long-distance trails can be completed on the wall, allowing visitors and experienced walkers to see large portions of the famous wall. Walking to the top of the Steel Rigg requires a little more effort, but the views from this dramatic crag are worth the climb.

Throughout Hadrian’s Wall, you can see wonderful sites such as Chesters Roman Fort, which is one of the northernmost outposts of the ancient Roman Empire. For those who are fascinated by Roman history, the Hadrian’s Wall path can be one of the most special walks throughout Northumberland. If you are looking for more interesting things to do in Northumberland, check out our things to do in Northumberland guide.

Visitors can find what was once one of the most photographed spots in the United Kingdom with a short walk through Hadrian’s Wall to the Sycamore Gap. With the short but steep uphill walking route, visitors will find the remains of a once iconic landmark, which was sadly felled by an act of vandalism. Although the tree no longer stands, the Sycamore Gap tree is always remembered as it featured in the 1991 blockbuster film ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’. Speaking of the walk itself, the 3-mile circular walk along Hadrian’s Wall towards Housestead Roman Fort is the perfect circular route for those who want to get out for a short walk. We recommend this walk for those who still want to experience Hadrian’s Wall, but do not want to spend all day walking and hiking.

Northumberland has some of the best group accommodations in England. Northumberland not only features some of the most prestigious holiday homes, but trails like the Walltown Crags Walk help the county stand out from other places in the UK. Walltown Crags is best known for its dramatic views and is one of the most spectacular trails throughout Northumberland as it dives through the sweeping, volcanic rock edge landscapes! The site is found between Birdoswald Fort and Housesteads Roman Fort, making this walk perfect for those wanting a day out. Not to mention, Haltwhistle is nearby, making it the ideal place to stop for coffee and cake before you make your way home.