Best trails in Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park covers an area of more than 1,050 square kilometres between the Scottish border in the north to just south of Hadrian's Wall, and is one of the least populated and least visited of the National Parks. The park lies entirely within Northumberland and covers roughly a quarter of the county. In the north are the Cheviot Hills, a range of hills that mark the border between England and Scotland. Further south, the hills give way to areas of rolling moorland, some of which have been covered by forestry plantations to form Kielder Forest. The southernmost part of the park covers the dramatic central section of Hadrian's Wall, dating from the Roman occupation. The 10,000-year history of human habitation of the region is explored through the many archaeological sites, ranging from prehistoric monuments and Roman remains to Pele towers, constructed as a defence against Border Reivers. The park offers visitors a chance to explore these historical sites as well as numerous other opportunities for walking and hiking.
Top sights
Top trails
- (1431)·Moderate·5.0 mi·Est. 2.5–3 hrEnjoy lovely views and beautiful moorland scenery as you make your way through the woods, pass Criss-Cross Rock, climb to the summit of Simonside, and continue on to the top of Dove Crag, before heading back down to the road that leads back to the car park. Take care on the rough and steep sections of this trail, especially in wetter conditions when the paths become muddy and slippery. Appropriate footwear is required. Please take care if out with dogs as there are farm animals and ground...
- (679)·Moderate·5.8 mi·Est. 3–3.5 hrThis circular walk takes you to the fell sandstones in Simonside Hills that were created hundred of years ago. Simonside Hills is important to the Bronze Age and contains years of history. Additionally, you will be able to see wildflowers and plants such as butterwort, cranberry, and heath. Make sure to look up from time to time to see the different bird species. On this route, you will see Dove Crag, Old Stell Crag, and Little Church Rock. The path can sometimes be rough and muddy,...
- (677)·Moderate·6.5 mi·Est. 3–3.5 hrThis is a picturesque trail along a section of the Hadrian's Wall Path. The route begins at the car park located next to Housesteads Visitor Centre. Take a stroll through the amazing ruins and follow the path leading to Sycamore Gap. Then, continue to Peel Gap and return via Military Way. There are breathtaking views across the top of the hill. Please note that you may encounter livestock along this route, so it is advised to use leads if you bring your dog. Some parts can get rather muddy...
- (892)·Moderate·2.9 mi·Est. 1.5–2 hrExplore the enchanting Hareshaw Linn Waterfall on this trail leaving from Bellingham's village and taking you through beautiful woodlands. It features a local legend about coins growing on trees. The walk follows a solid stone and rocky path for the entire length, which can have a little surface mud and is very slippery in wetter conditions. Appropriate, grippy footwear is required. The route includes several climbs and descents, and there are several flights of steps, a couple of gates,...
- (563)·Moderate·1.7 mi·Est. 0.5–1 hrThis is a circular walk along Steel Rigg to Sycamore Gap, then returning via the Roman Military Road. Standing at Sycamore Gap, you will be able to see the vast and impressive views of Handrian's Wall in the distance. Sadly, the Sycamore Gap tree (often lovingly referred to as the Robin Hood tree), has now been felled. The historical value of this area stands firm, despite this sad loss. There is a lovely cafe nearby (The Sill), ideal for a warm drink and a cake at the end of your walk....
- (574)·Moderate·4.4 mi·Est. 2–2.5 hrEnjoy this moderately challenging route through woodlands and up craggy peaks with lovely views over the surrounding area. You can also keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the wild flowers in spring and summer. This trail takes in Little Church Rock, Criss-Cross Rock, and the summits of Simonside and Dove Crag which offer good spots for a break and picnic. Take care on the rougher sections of this trail, especially in wetter conditions when the rockier sections become slippery....
- (476)·Moderate·3.5 mi·Est. 1.5–2 hrThis is an exciting circular trail that allows you to explore Hadrian's Wall, Steel Rigg, and Crag Loch in Northumberland National Park. On this route, you will be able to see the most majestic views of Hadrian's Wall, which was built with a toll booth. The wall prevented people from moving in and out of Roman Britain freely. Start the trail from the Steel Rigg View car park and follow the Hadrian's Wall signpost, which will lead you to the foot of Peel Crags. The climb up the stone steps...
- (427)·Moderate·4.9 mi·Est. 2.5–3 hrThis trail takes in a great mix of natural and historic sights as you wind your way from Housesteads Roman Fort, also known as Vercovicium, along Hadrian's Wall passing milecastles, and past Crag Lough to Sycamore Gap, once the site of a large and famous sycamore tree. Take care on the rougher sections, especially in wetter conditions when the trail is muddy and slippery. Appropriate footwear is required.
- (483)·Moderate·4.5 mi·Est. 2.5–3 hrThese spectacular hills are full of wildlife including curlew, red grouse, wild goats and even red squirrels. This trail takes you to the top of Simonside, where you have a 360 degree view taking in the Cheviot Hills and North Sea coastline. Below, in the forest, there is a Bronze Age cemetery and swords from this era, unmarked by fighting, have been found on the lower slopes of Simonside. Today, Simonside appears as an open expanse of wilderness, with a great deal of modern forestry. It is...
- (478)·Hard·8.5 mi·Est. 5–5.5 hrThis is a wonderful trail in Northumberland National Park, taking you up the Cheviot via Scald Hill and descending via Cairn Hill before returning through the valley. There are boggy and pathless sections as well as river crossings along the route where extra care will be needed. The trail starts from a parking area along the narrow lane that winds along the Harthorp Burn. Follow the road at first, and once you’re across New Burn, look out for the footpath to your right. Take this path,...
Visitor info
Several points of interest within Northumberland National Park are wheelchair-friendly. The National Landscape Discovery Centre in Once Brewed is wheelchair accessible, with accessible washrooms and a paved path leading to a viewpoint with sweeping views of Hadrian's Wall.
The Walltown Visitor Centre is wheelchair accessible, with accessible washrooms and an accessible path around Walltown Country Park. Across the street, the Roman Army Museum is also fully accessible.
Additional information about accessible features at Northumberland National Park can be found on their website: https://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/visitor-info/accessibility/.
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Frequently asked questions
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Activities
- Backpacking trails in Northumberland National Park
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Attractions
- Beach trails in Northumberland National Park
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- Forest trails in Northumberland National Park
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- Lake trails in Northumberland National Park
- Long trails in Northumberland National Park
- Moderate trails in Northumberland National Park
- Pub walks in Northumberland National Park
- River trails in Northumberland National Park
- Short trails in Northumberland National Park
- Trails with views in Northumberland National Park
- Waterfall trails in Northumberland National Park
- Wildflower trails in Northumberland National Park
- Wildlife trails in Northumberland National Park
Points of interest
- Dove Crag
- Hareshaw Linn
- The Cheviot
- Coventina's Well
- Winshields Crags
- Linhope Spout Waterfall
- Simonside
- Humbleton Hill
- Hedgehope Hill
- Windy Gyle
- Little Church Rock
- Commanding Officer's House
- Headquarters Building
- Angle Tower
- Milecastle 39 (Castle Nick)
- Tipalt Burn
- Drake Stone
- Thirlwall Castle
- Brocolitia Fort
- Cawfields Quarry
