Brinkburn walks

A circular walk with a lot of interest. From the prehistoric rock art, bronze age burial cairns and iron age hill fort at Lordenshaw, to the lovely scenic walk over the Simonside hills, to the iron age hill fort overlooking Great Tosson through to the tranquil return through the Simonside forest.

The walk starts from the entrance to Meldon Hall Gardens close to Hartburn, Northumberland. The location is steeped in history having been passed from the last Saxon Earl of Northumberland to the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaler. Passing on the route Angerton hall built in1842 by John Dobson, Low Angerton where the ruins of a 16th century bastle can be seen and Meldon Church which dates from around 1200

This walk along the dunes and golden sandy beach passes a number of nature reserves. There is an abundance of wildlife but also grazing animals along this stretch, it is nature at its best.

From the stunning Souter Lighthouse to the small fishing harbour at Amble, this section of the route passes many monuments and includes a ferry ride across the Tyne. Industry, tourist sites, lovely beaches and history are all covered in this section of the walk. The walk involves paved foothpaths as well as dirt footpaths and sand dunes. Many of the sections are accessible and details are given in the individual section details.

Amble marks the start (or end) of the England Coast Path, however this will be extended further into Northumberland in time. Amble is known as the 'friendliest port' and is a good place to explore before starting the walk along the dunes with stunning beaches and nature reserves to explore along the way.

From Cresswell, the England Coast path continues to wind its way across the dunes but for much of the walk you will see the Newbiggin Power Station up ahead, the first suggestion of the North East's industrial heritage. The walk finishes at the Newbiggin Maritime Centre which provides information on the maritime history of the area. This is a walk of contrasts.

Escape the hordes and enjoy some archaeological delights

A lovely circular walk with a lot of interest via hill forts, ancient settlements, open moorland and riverside views. This version means fording the river at the end but a dry alternative is also given.

A good 20 mile route around Kidland Forest, starting from Alwinton. This can be done in either direction, but I prefer the way described, as it has one steep 10% climb and then undulates. Please note that there is forestry work taking place in 2025, so please avoid this route when logging is taking place, but enjoy it on weekends.

This walk explores the hills that lie just inside the southern boundary of the Northumberland National Park at the head of Coquetdale. The hills in the southern part of the Northumberland National Park offer some fine walking. This route starts from the small village of Alwinton and follows paths, tracks and quiet country lanes for the most part. However some sections are pathless and a good sense of direction is necessary. The walk is best avoided if low cloud is covering the hills. Also do be prepared for some boggy areas especially after rain.

An easy circular walk from Alwinton; taking in the ruins of the castle at Harbottle and then up to the Drake Stone in the Harbottle Hills. Descend to Harbottle Lake and return via the forest path. Great views on a clear day.

Broadly flat 5 mile walk starting in a layby 200 metres from Bellasis bridge (see practical information). Note: Do not be tempted to park on the grass, as there are many hidden ditches and gulleysYou will also have to cross the River Pont on stepping stones, but these are very secure.The river is just a narrow trickle at the moment (August 2025).Not passable in a wet winter.

A leisurely Northumberland walk that offers the chace to visit Holwick Hall (NT) and also explores a section of the North Sea Coast. The route follows a section of the Northumberland Coast Path.

A great easy circular walk starting from the village of Craster and passing by the famous castle of Dunstanburgh and the sand dune of Embleton. Dog friendy.

A very short and easy amble along the shoreline to the dramatic Dunstanburgh Castle. For these reasons it is very popular.

An easy circular walk to Dunstanburgh Castle from Embleton Village via the beach in Embleton Bay and returning on quiet farm roads. This walk has a little more interest than its companion walk from the ever popular Craster.

This is a section of the Angel's Way. It starts in Backworth and follows a rural route passing the ruins of Burradon Tower. After that, it passes through Burradon, Camperdown and Killingworth finishing at the picturesque Killingworth Lake.