Northumberland: Alnwick – Where to… walk

Whether you’re planning a family holiday in Northumberland, or a couple looking for some peace and quiet, there is no better location than the beautiful setting of Alnwick. 

While the town has plenty of attractions of its own (a castle, exemplary gardens and even a treehouse to name just a few), but if you’re looking to lace up your walking boots, pull on your wellies, or just have an amble to see what you can discover in the local area, then you are spoilt for choice when it comes to walking routes. 

Here, we have rounded up just some of the places, sights and experiences you can discover by setting off from the Northumberland hotspot with nothing but your most comfortable shoes, a bottle of water and perhaps even a picnic.

Waterside Trail  

Setting off from the car park at The Alnwick Garden, this circular trail gives you a choice of two slightly differing lengths.

Following the River Aln for much of the route, you’ll also pass through farmland and be rewarded with some spectacular views.

Find out more here: http://www.northumberlandestates.co.uk/media/134227/waterside.pdf

Greensfield 

This short 2.1-2.9 mile walk (depending on your chosen route) takes you in a circle through the east of the town. 

A quick one to get the blood flowing and legs moving, this is perfect to work off those long lunches.

Find out more here: http://www.northumberlandestates.co.uk/media/134504/greensfield_2016.pdf

Abbeylands loop

Follow in the footsteps of blogger Andrew by taking a 4-mile loop from The Alnwick Garden, heading North West to Abbeylands House along the River Aln, then winding your way back through Alnwick itself to your starting point. 

Not only does this route take you through the historic town, but if you take time to look across the river on the first leg of your trundle, you will be treated to a spectacular view of the resplendent castle and fortification towering towards you.

Find out more here: https://www.andrewswalks.co.uk/alnwick-2.html

Castle Hill at Thrunton Wood

The first of two waymarked trails through the woods, this one is quite a challenge! 

Starting from the main car park, this is a demanding route with a long ascent – but don’t worry, it’s worth it in the end. 

You will not believe the views of the Cheviots from the top of Thrunton Crags – a perfect spot for you to rest and get your breath back.

In total the trail route is five miles long following the red waymarkers. Forestry England has marked the walk as ‘hard’ so if you fancy a little more help, mountain bikes and horses are welcome. 

Find out more here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/thrunton-wood/castle-hill-walk-thrunton-wood

Please note: at the time of writing (January 2022), many routes and access points for Thrunton Wood are closed due to Storm Arwen damage. Please check the website prior to setting off.

Crag Top walk at Thrunton Wood

The second of Thrunton Wood’s paths is a much more sedate, family-friendly affair. 

Following the green way markers, this is an easy route of one mile which will also provide you with great views of the Cheviot hills from the top of Thrunton Crags. 

Find out more here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/thrunton-wood/crag-top-walk-thrunton-wood 

Please note: at the time of writing (January 2022), many routes and access points for Thrunton Wood are closed due to Storm Arwen damage. Please check the website prior to setting off.

Hulne Park 

A glorious park, the former hunting ground of the Percy family, offers a number of routes, of varying difficulty, between 4 and 6.2 miles. 

Taking in some of the park’s most magnificent features including the ruins of Hulne Abbey, the Brizlee Tower and of course the stunning parkland, this has something for everyone. 

Due to the nature of the park, including a number of residents living within it, it has strict opening times, and unfortunately dogs and cyclists are not permitted. 

Find out more here: http://www.northumberlandestates.co.uk/media/134081/hulne_park.pdf

Please note: at the time of writing (January 2022), Hulne Park is closed to the public due to severe storm damage. Please check the website before planning your visit: http://www.northumberlandestates.co.uk/the-estate/walks-trails/ 

As always, preserving our countryside, and protecting land and livestock, is top priority. Wherever you roam, please ensure you follow The Countryside Code and use common sense when it comes to keeping dogs under control, closing gates, and giving livestock a wide berth.

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