Summer in Northumberland is true magic. The sky drifts from cornflower blue to a rich sun-warmed indigo, alive with wheeling swifts and curlew song. The hillsides turn from green to purple as valleys of wild heather comes into fragrant blossom. And the sea sparkles, welcoming dolphins, seals and whales to its shores and islands.
And the best way to experience it all? On foot of course. Set off from our historic Northumbrian estate for a day immersed in the beauty of the season in our majestic border county. And return to rest your legs and relax in calm, unhurried luxury – with cocktails and award-winning dining to look forward to.
Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 at our historic hall and plan your perfect walking holiday with our guide to the best summer walking trails in Northumberland.
Craster to Low Newton by the Sea
A local gem and a firm favourite of many, this shore walk takes you to from the sleepy fishing village of Craster to perfect peace at Newton Haven – with an ancient castle thrown in along the way.
Start in Craster, fuelling up with a Northumbrian kipper sandwich from the smokehouse before walking along the windblown headland towards Dunstanburgh Castle, a 14th century coastal stronghold. Head down to the beach and stroll along the shore towards Embleton Bay, watching shadows lengthen on the sand as you arrive at Low Newton. Flop onto the grass outside The Ship Inn for a well-earned drink and time to watch the world go by at a gentle pace before embarking on the return leg.
Steel Rigg and Hadrian’s Wall
No walking holiday to Northumberland is complete without a walk along Hadrian’s Wall. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site on foot to truly experience its unique, 2,000-year history.
A classic walk, taking in much of the wall’s most iconic scenery is from Steel Rigg to Crag Lough. Follow the trail, taking care over the steep ascents and drops which follow the original Roman trail. Scale the peak of Peel Crags and keep to the path to uncover an ancient milecastle and the site of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Just a little further on, Highshield Crags is waiting – a viewing point with a dramatic view of Northumbrian moorland and the azure blue of Crag Lough itself.
Linhope Spout
If you need to cool off, Linhope Spout is the walk for you.
Take a 3-mile walk through the Cheviot Hills to one of England’s best wild swimming spots. Begin in Hartside, walking towards Linhope Burn to follow a marked trail that takes you through gentle Scots Pine woodland, home to endangered red squirrels. Arrive at Linhope Spout, a 60 foot waterfall that cascades into a 16 foot deep plunge pool. Take a swim and drink in the view – encompassing nearby Hedgehope Hill – spectacular and second only to Cheviot in height.
Cheviot
Northumberland’s highest peak and a truly rewarding challenge, Cheviot stands at 815 metres. Perfect for summer’s long, light days – keep a gentle pace to walk through tussocky moors and scale heather-draped hills, meeting wild Cheviot goats as you follow the route to the top. The climb takes you to some of the most spectacular views in the county, a panoramic vista of Northumberland National Park with views stretching as far as Edinburgh to the north and the Lake District to the west.
Penny Pie
A hidden gem and just as beautiful, Penny Pie is another local favourite that takes you off the beaten track to enjoy the peace and tranquility of Northumberland.
Begin in Blanchland, a village that glows with the charm of a bygone age. Stroll along the banks of the gentle River Derwent before climbing up the valley and out onto open, rolling moorland. Follow the track towards Penny Pie House – named as it once sold pies for a penny to cattle drovers making their windblown journey to Hexham market. Head back down to the village through Slaley Woods, keeping an eye out for native grouse as you go, to rest your feet at the Lord Crewe Arms before heading back to the estate for an evening of well-earned indulgence.
Explore the very best of Northumberland, home to the country’s most peaceful national park, with an escape to Matfen Hall. Nestled in the heart of the region, with award-winning dining and bespoke chauffeured tours – it’s your luxurious home from home for the perfect summer walking break.