in Northumberland.
Do you have commitment issues when it comes to long walking routes? Or maybe your family holiday is filled with little legs that just can’t hack long hikes? Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered, as we have picked five of the best short walking routes in Northumberland to enjoy this Christmas.
1) Hauxley Nature Reserve
If you love to mix your wandering with wildlife watching, head to Hauxley Nature Reserve. A great place to watch birds, butterflies, red squirrels and otters, there are a number of circular trails around the reserve, so you can easily return to your original starting point once you’ve completed your chosen route. Leave time for a break in the Look Out Cafe, which has wonderful waterside views of the ponds to entertain you while you taste locally sourced refreshments.
There is also a 1km accessible trail suitable for those who have the pushchair in tow or require wheelchair access, with two accessible bird hides en-route.
Where to park: There is car parking on site (NE65 0JR), charges apply.
2) Wallington House
Wallington House, Garden and Estate’s River Walk promises a day of fascinating history, peaceful riverside views and exciting adventures over stepping stones and in secret gardens. At just over 2.5 miles, the whole family can enjoy this gentle route.
Explore the secret, walled garden with its lily pad-covered ponds, then cross the River Wansbeck via stepping stones. Once you reach the route’s woodland areas, find hints of magic in the forest, where tiny doorways fit for fairies hide in the tree trunks.
The circular route ends at Wallington courtyard, where you can grab some refreshments and rest your legs at the tea room.
Where to park: Wallington has a designated car park, please note there is an entry charge for Wallington House and pre-booking is recommended.
3) Morpeth and Bluebell Woods
Discover the 2.5 mile walk through the bustling, stylish streets of Morpeth to tranquil Bluebell Woods. Starting in the centre, head up Cottingwood Lane, then take the path through the woods and cut into the open fields where, if you’re lucky, you may spot some deer. Follow the path around the outskirts of the hospital and you will arrive at Bluebell Woods, where you can admire the carpet of bright blue in the springtime, and the idyllic woodland surroundings for the rest of the year.
Once you’re out of the woods, you can return, full circle, to Morpeth centre.
Don’t miss Sanderson Arcade, which holds an array of shops and eateries. Or time your walk with a Wednesday morning and peruse Morpeth Markets, selling fresh, local produce. There is also a Farmer’s Market on the first Saturday of each month.
Where to park: There is plenty of parking in Morpeth town centre, but a parking disc is required. These can be easily purchased from retailers, Tourist Information Centres and libraries. You can also use a disc from another council if you already have one.
4) Hexham and Corbridge
Stroll along the banks of the River Tyne on the 5 mile trail between two historic, quaint, cobbled towns, Hexham and Corbridge.
Begin in Hexham where beautiful Sele Park and the stunning grounds of Hexham House make for a peaceful start to your walk. From there, you will wander along woodland trails, past Dilston Castle, and along Devil’s Water where a series of waterfalls tumble into plunge pools. Then, you follow the rushing river until you reach the 17th century stone bridge which takes you into Corbridge.
Corbridge is filled with cosy cafes and local pubs to fill up on refreshments once you have made it to this beautiful small town.
Where to park: Park in Hexham and take the Go North East bus from Corbridge to Hexham once you have finished your walk.
5) St Cuthbert’s Cave
St Cuthbert’s Cave, nestled away in the remote countryside of Belford, oozes mystery due to its spiritual past. It is said that the ancient monks of Lindisfarne laid St Cuthbert’s body to rest here in AD875, the seventh century Anglo-Saxon monk, bishop and hermit, who possessed the power of spiritual healing.
Starting in Holburn, this circular, 3 mile route takes you to the eerie cave on both surfaced and unsurfaced tracks, and offers sweeping views of the rugged Cheviot Hills. When you reach the cave, if you can, go up the hill above it to see the wonderful view over Holy Island.
Where to park: The National Trust car park in Holburn
Mostly circular, all beautiful, and none over 5 miles, take your pick from our five short walks in Northumberland for you to enjoy this winter, perfect for Christmas walks, Boxing Day ambles and New Year’s Day strolls. Make sure to check opening times where relevant to avoid disappointment.