If you are enthusiasts for long, invigorating walks, discovering stunning coastal views, and exploring historic sites, Northumberland, a county in the North East of England, is the place to be. With its dramatic coastline stretching over 64 miles, dotted with a plethora of castles, quaint fishing villages, and untouched beaches, Northumberland offers a rich selection of coastal paths perfect for long-distance walking.
1. The Northumberland Coast Path
The Northumberland Coast Path, part of the North Sea Trail, is a must-walk route that spans 64 miles from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north. The path takes walkers through a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches and rocky cliffs to picturesque coastal villages.
The trail is typically completed in 4 to 6 days, depending on your pace. It’s a relatively flat walk, so it’s accessible to walkers of most abilities. You’ll pass through the historic fishing villages of Craster, famous for smoked kippers, and Seahouses, a bustling harbour town with boat trips to the Farne Islands, a renowned bird and wildlife sanctuary.
A highlight is the impressive Bamburgh Castle, sitting majestically on a rocky outcrop overlooking vast stretches of unspoilt beach. Further along the route, you’ll pass the haunting ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, a testament to the turbulent history of the region.
2. The St Oswald’s Way
Starting at the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the 97-mile St Oswald’s Way takes you on an adventure through some of the most beautiful parts of Northumberland. The walk integrates the coastal path with a more inland route, offering a diverse landscape. It’s traditionally divided into six stages, each ranging from 11 to 20 miles and offering an array of sights and experiences.
The route begins with the tidal causeway leading to the Holy Island, a place of pilgrimage for centuries. You can explore the island’s rich history, including the Lindisfarne Priory, before setting off southward. On your journey, you’ll encounter the impressive Warkworth Castle and the tranquil Alnmouth, a postcard-perfect village.
As you move further inland, the St Oswald’s Way takes you through rolling countryside and lush woods, offering a respite from the coastal winds. The route ends at Heavenfield, a historic site on Hadrian’s Wall, but not before you’ve enjoyed some of the best walking Northumberland has to offer.
3. The Berwickshire Coastal Path
Although not entirely in Northumberland, the Berwickshire Coastal Path is a worthy addition to this list. The walk begins in Berwick-upon-Tweed, England’s northernmost town, and winds its way up the coast for 28.5 miles to Cockburnspath in Scotland. The path offers a blend of English and Scottish coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and charming coastal towns.
One of the main attractions along this route is the town of Eyemouth, with its bustling harbour and colourful houses. From there, the path takes you to St Abbs, a quaint village boasting a picturesque harbour and a thriving wildlife reserve. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some seals lounging on the rocks.
4. The Coastal Challenge Walk
For those seeking a real challenge, the Coastal Challenge Walk is a 26-mile route that starts and ends in the town of Alnmouth. The route takes you along the coast, passing through the coastal villages of Boulmer, Craster, and Seahouses, before heading inland to the village of Bamburgh.
The Coastal Challenge Walk is a test of endurance, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. The sight of the imposing Bamburgh Castle against the backdrop of the North Sea is a sight to behold. After a stretch of walking along lovely beaches and dunes, you’ll make your way inland through fields and pastures, before returning to Alnmouth.
While the walk is long, it’s not particularly difficult, with mostly flat terrain and well-maintained paths. That said, it’s still a challenge due to the distance, so ensure you’re well-prepared before you set off.
These four long-distance coastal walks offer a delightful mix of Northumberland’s breathtaking coastal scenery, historic landmarks, and charming villages. Whether you’re in for a multi-day hike or challenging one-day adventure, Northumberland’s coastal paths are sure to provide a memorable walking experience.
5. The St. Cuthbert’s Way
Another fantastic long-distance coastal walk in Northumberland is the St. Cuthbert’s Way. This 62.5-mile route takes you from the market town of Melrose in Scotland to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland. The journey is a blend of coast, hills, rivers, and valleys, with stunning views and fascinating heritage sites along the way.
The walk starts at Melrose Abbey, where St. Cuthbert started his religious life in the 7th century. From there, it takes you through the Eildon Hills, down into the Tweed Valley, and across the rugged Cheviot Hills. The magnificent sight of the Northumberland coastline then unfolds before you as you approach the end of your journey.
One of the many highlights along the route is the crossing of the tidal causeway to Lindisfarne, an experience that is entirely dependent on the tides. The Holy Island, home to the Lindisfarne Castle and Priory, is a fitting end to this epic walk. All in all, the St. Cuthbert’s Way offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and spiritual significance, making it an unmissable long-distance coastal walk in Northumberland.
6. The Hadrian’s Wall Path
The Hadrian’s Wall Path is a remarkable 84-mile long-distance walking trail that takes you from coast to coast across the width of Northern England. This path, which follows the line of the Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating insight into the Roman history of the region.
The walk kicks off in the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne and winds its way across the country to the Solway Firth on the west coast. Along the way, you’ll encounter rolling landscapes, Roman forts, turrets, and milecastles, each offering a glimpse into the past. The imposing sight of the Sycamore Gap, a tree growing in a dip in the wall, is one of the most iconic views along the route.
Although the Hadrian’s Wall Path is not exclusively a coastal walk, it does take you along the beautiful Northumberland coastline at the start and finish of the route. This, combined with the rich history and stunning interior landscapes, makes it a must-try walk for any long-distance walking enthusiast.
From the dramatic coastline and historic sites to the picturesque villages and diverse landscapes, Northumberland’s long-distance coastal paths offer something for every walker. Whether you choose to walk the Northumberland Coast Path, the St Oswald’s Way, the Berwickshire Coastal Path, the Coastal Challenge Walk, the St. Cuthbert’s Way, or the Hadrian’s Wall Path, you are in for a truly memorable walking adventure.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the landscapes, and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region. After all, it’s not just about the destination, but also the journey. Happy walking!
