Walking in Northumberland: The Definitive Guide from Fell Farm Hideaway
Best Walks Near Fell Farm Hideaway (local walks)
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(Guests staying at Fell Farm Hideaway can reach this route within five minutes via car)
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(Guests staying at Fell Farm Hideaway can reach this route within 10 minutes via car)
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Best Walks in Northumberland Near Hadrian’s Wall
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Hadrian’s Wall – Housesteads to Steel Rigg
Woodland and Riverside Walks
After a day exploring these Northumberland walks, returning to the quiet of your cabin at Fell Farm Hideaway allows you to truly unwind.
Hallington Reservoir Circular Distance: 4–5 miles (depending on route taken) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Best for: Quiet waterside walking, birdlife, local scenery Dog friendly: Yes (on lead near livestock and wildlife) Just a short distance from Fell Farm Hideaway, Hallington Reservoir offers a peaceful circular walk that feels wonderfully removed from busier walking routes. The path traces the edge of the water before gently rising through surrounding farmland and open countryside. The terrain is generally manageable, with gradual inclines rather than steep climbs, making it suitable for most walkers who enjoy steady rather than strenuous routes. The reservoir itself is a haven for birdlife. On calmer days, the still surface reflects the wide Northumberland sky, creating an atmosphere that feels expansive yet tranquil. Because it is less widely known than some of the more famous walking spots in the county, Hallington often provides a quieter experience — particularly midweek. For guests staying with us, this is one of the easiest walks to access and works well for either a shorter morning circuit or a longer, slower afternoon outing. Insider tip: The light in late afternoon can be particularly beautiful here, especially when the water is calm and the surrounding fields begin to soften in tone.
Colt Crag Reservoir & Woodland Walk Distance: 3–4 miles (extendable) Difficulty: Easy Best for: Gentle walking, woodland edges, peaceful views Dog friendly: Yes (livestock present in surrounding fields) Colt Crag Reservoir offers a quieter and more intimate walking experience than many of Northumberland’s larger water routes. The path around the reservoir is relatively level and well suited to a relaxed pace. The surrounding landscape combines open farmland with pockets of woodland, offering varied scenery without demanding terrain. This walk is particularly appealing for guests seeking a calm, restorative outing rather than a more challenging hill walk. The combination of water, sky and farmland captures much of what makes walking in Northumberland distinctive — space without crowds. Because of its proximity to Fell Farm Hideaway, Colt Crag is ideal for guests who prefer to leave the car behind and enjoy a nearby route at their own pace. Insider tip: Early mornings here can feel especially serene, with mist occasionally rising from the water and very little foot traffic.
Hadrian’s Wall: Housesteads to Steel Rigg Distance: 4–6 miles (circular options available) Difficulty: Moderate Best for: Iconic views, history, photography Dog friendly: Yes (livestock frequently present – leads required) No walking guide to Northumberland would be complete without Hadrian’s Wall. The stretch between Housesteads Roman Fort and Steel Rigg offers some of the most dramatic scenery along the entire Wall. Rolling ridgelines, expansive skies and sweeping views across Northumberland National Park make this a rewarding walk in all seasons. The terrain here is undulating rather than flat. Short climbs are rewarded with wide views that seem to stretch endlessly across the landscape. On clear evenings, this section is particularly atmospheric — especially as light fades and the countryside settles. For guests staying with us, this route is an easy drive from Fell Farm Hideaway, making it ideal for a half-day or extended circular walk. Insider tip: If you prefer a quieter experience, start earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. The light is softer, and the path feels more expansive and peaceful.
Allen Banks & Staward Gorge Distance: 3–5 miles (various loops) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Best for: Woodland walking, riverside paths, autumn colour Dog friendly: Yes (on lead near wildlife and grazing areas) Managed by the National Trust, Allen Banks offers a different character to the exposed ridges of Hadrian’s Wall. Here, the River Allen cuts through steep wooded banks, creating sheltered woodland trails that feel almost hidden from the wider countryside. The paths weave alongside the river before climbing gently through mature trees, offering seasonal interest year-round. In spring and summer, the canopy filters the light beautifully. In autumn, the colours are exceptional. Even on breezier days, the wooded nature of the gorge provides a more protected walking experience. This is a particularly good option for guests seeking a gentler day’s walk, or those who enjoy combining walking with wildlife spotting and photography. Insider tip: After rainfall, the river is especially atmospheric — but do wear suitable footwear, as sections can become damp underfoot.
Hexham Riverside & Tyne Green Circular Distance: 3–4 miles Difficulty: Easy Best for: Gentle walking, riverside scenery, combining with cafés and shops Dog friendly: Yes (generally flat and accessible) For those looking for a gentler day out, the riverside paths around Hexham and Tyne Green offer an easy and scenic alternative to the more elevated routes along Hadrian’s Wall. Following the River Tyne, this walk is largely flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for a relaxed morning or afternoon stroll. The wide path allows you to walk side by side, and the open river views provide a sense of space without strenuous climbing. Hexham itself is worth allowing time for — with its historic abbey, independent shops and cafés offering a welcoming pause after a walk. Many of our guests enjoy combining this route with lunch in town before returning to the quiet of the farm. Insider tip: Early evenings along the river can be especially peaceful, with soft light reflecting off the water and far fewer visitors than at peak weekend times.
Vindolanda & the Surrounding Countryside Distance: 4–7 miles (various extensions) Difficulty: Moderate Best for: History enthusiasts, open countryside, quieter stretches of Hadrian’s Wall Dog friendly: Yes (leads required near livestock) Vindolanda offers one of the most fascinating Roman sites in Britain, but the surrounding countryside is just as rewarding for walkers. The landscape here feels slightly quieter than the more famous Wall sections, yet still carries a strong sense of history and openness. Rolling farmland, stone walls and expansive skies create a walk that feels both rural and timeless. There are several circular options that combine sections of Hadrian’s Wall Path with lesser-used connecting trails. These provide a satisfying sense of distance without becoming overly demanding. From Fell Farm Hideaway, this area is easily reached and works well for guests planning a full day combining walking with time exploring the archaeological site itself. Insider tip: If visiting the fort and museum, walk first and explore second. The landscape feels more immersive when you’ve approached it on foot.
Corbridge & the Tyne Valley Distance: 4–6 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Best for: Village charm, open farmland, riverside views Dog friendly: Yes Corbridge blends countryside walking with one of Northumberland’s most attractive villages. Circular routes from the village take you out into gently rolling farmland before returning via riverside paths. The gradients are manageable and the views broad without feeling exposed. This is a particularly enjoyable option for guests who appreciate combining a countryside walk with time spent browsing independent shops or enjoying a relaxed lunch. Like much of Northumberland, even well-known areas such as Corbridge retain a sense of space that is increasingly rare elsewhere in the UK. Insider tip: Midweek visits are noticeably quieter, particularly outside of school holidays.