5 Best Hiking Trails in Northumberland, England

Hadrian’s Wall National Trail in Northumberland, England

Situated in the northeast region of England, Northumberland is the most northerly county in the country, nestled below the Scottish Borders.

Home to a world-famous, unspoilt coastline which enjoys acclaim as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Northumberland boasts rugged wilderness and convenient access to the vibrant cultural hub of Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Northumberland is home to rich heritage, vibrant culture and some of the most breath-taking vistas in the UK.

With undisturbed wildlife thriving across the region and an array of attractions to discover around every corner, it’s no wonder the nation is making a beeline for the natural treasures of Northumberland.

Here’s a look at some of the region’s very best hiking hotspots. From the stunning scenery on the journey itself to the view from the top, we can guarantee that each route you’ll take comes complete with a picture-perfect backdrop.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hike alongside history with a walking holiday on the 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall National Trail. From cityscapes to rugged moorland, this coast-to-coast route offers everything you’ve ever dreamt of when it comes to a picturesque trek.

If you don’t have time for the full route, from the Wallsend shipyard to the coastal village Bowness-on-Solway, explore the midsection between Chollerford and Steel Rigg.

This rural section of the route is set amongst Northumberland’s stunning moorland, and passes the restored Roman fort at Vercovicium (Housesteads).

Offering both superb views of the rolling hills and excellent visibility of the Wall, this 12-mile stretch certainly deserves a visit.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Escape to the remote Holy Island of Lindisfarne for a real sense of seclusion and serenity. This tidal island is separated from the mainland twice a day due to the changing tides, meaning sweeping coastal views are easy to find on this world-famous causeway.

Catch a glimpse of Lindisfarne Priory’s ancient ruins, a monastery founded by Saint Aidan in 635AD. From 16th century castles to lime kilns built in 1860, history and heritage border this three-mile walk at every point.

Begin your adventure at the gates of Lindisfarne Castle, following the trail to Lindisfarne Nature Reserve and the limestone quarry, before retracing your steps back to the castle.

Dunstanburgh Castle

Sitting proudly above the crashing waves of the Northumberland coastline, the 14th century fortress, Dunstanburgh Castle, sits atop a volcanic outcrop.

Catch a glimpse of the stunning stronghold from the shore, and explore the untouched wildlife on the rocky reefs at low tide. The six-mile journey to Dunstanburgh and beyond shows off the very best of the Northumberland Coast.

Start your walk in the quaint harbour village of Craster, following the rugged rock formations of the coastal path past the castle and on to Low Newton-by-the-Sea – a charming village made up of cream-washed cottages, perched above a sublime sandy beach.

The Cheviot, College Valley

With over 12,000 acres waiting to be explored, the six-mile journey from Langleeford to the summit of the Cheviot in the College Valley is a treasure trove of outstanding natural beauty.

From discovering the unbeatable panoramas at the top of the Cheviot to diving into Northumberland’s rich history with a visit to ancient hill forts, the College Valley has much to offer.

You might even spot the remains of a B-17 bomber, which crashed here in World War II.

Hareshaw Linn

For all things flora and fauna, explore the scenic three-mile route from Bellingham to the waterfall through the serene Hareshaw Dene.

This officially designated Site of Specific Scientific Interest is home to wonderful wildlife, as well as rare ferns and lichen. If you’re lucky, you may come across woodpeckers, wood warblers and even red squirrels on this woodland walk.

The 30-ft waterfall, Hareshaw Linn, makes for the perfect picnic spot, and is only a stone’s throw from the vibrant village of Bellingham.

From the heights of the rolling Cheviot Hills to captivating coastal tours, Northumberland has an adventure to suit every explorer.

Take a hike and experience the very best of this charming county –you never know what you might find.

Author Bio: Jess Sheldon is a travel blogger for Cottages in Northumberland, providing a wide range of Northumberland cottages where visitors can rest their weary legs after a long day exploring the county’s stunning landscape.

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Janna Graber

Travel Journalist and Managing Editor at Go World Travel Magazine

Janna Graber is an award-winning American travel journalist who has written for national magazines, newspapers and websites. She is the managing editor of Go World Travel Magazine, and a member of the Society of American Travel Writers. Since studying abroad in Austria, she's been in love with world travel, and has covered travel in more than 60 countries. She's the author of three travel anthology books, including "A Pink Suitcase: 22 Tales of Women's Travel" and "Adventures of a Lifetime".

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