Admiring the views of Thrunton Woods from Coe Craggs – my favourite viewpoint on this walk!

Thrunton Woods walk near Alnwick 

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and take a step into the wild beauty of the Northumberland countryside, Thrunton Woods is a good place to know about. Tucked away in the heart of this stunning region, it’s a superb spot that not many people seem to know about, but those who do, rave about it. Whether you just want a wander through a woodland or want to stretch the legs for some epic Northumberland views or even have a ride on the mountain bike. Thrunton Woods has got something for everyone.

A Quick Introduction to Thrunton Woods

First things first, Thrunton Woods is managed by Forestry England – so it is a working forest where pine tree’s are harvested from time to time and is ever changing. Thrunton Woods is situated just north of the town of Rothbury, it’s an easy reach for anyone based in the North East. Whether you’re a local or visiting from a bit further afield, getting to Thrunton Woods is a doddle. The woods themselves cover a large area of about 250 hectares, with paths snaking through tall, atmospheric trees.

While not as famous as some of Northumberland’s bigger names like Hadrian’s Wall or Alnwick Castle, or not as well known for walks like the nearby Simonside Hills, Thrunton Woods has a charm that’s all its own. It’s peaceful, it’s green, and it’s beautiful in every season. You’ll find that, for such a serene place, it packs in plenty of history, wildlife, and activities.

Getting There – How to Reach Thrunton Woods

One of the things that make Thrunton Woods so special is that it’s hidden away in the countryside but still incredibly accessible. It’s located off the B6341 road between Rothbury and Alnwick, so if you’ve got a car, you can easily find your way to the woods. There’s a free car park right at the north-eastern edge of the woods (google ‘Thrunton Woods Car Park’) , and you”ll find some limited info on the signs there. There are no facilities at the car park – it’s basic – however Thrunton Tea Rooms are a 5 min drive away – look out for the signs for there! If you’re arriving by bus or on foot, it’s still possible, but be prepared for a bit of a walk, as public transport won’t take you directly to the woods.

What Makes Thrunton Woods So Special?

The Nature and Wildlife

Thrunton Woods is a place where nature truly comes alive. Whether you’re there for a short stroll or a more vigorous hike, you’ll encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. The woods are mostly made up of coniferous trees, so expect towering pines, spruces, and firs. They’re a perfect spot for birdwatching, with species like the woodpecker, redstart, and even the occasional spotted flycatcher fluttering around.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some wildlife like deer or the red squirrel! It’s a great spot for any budding naturalists or anyone who just loves being surrounded by the wild.

Peace and Tranquility

One of the main draws of Thrunton Woods is the sense of peace you get when you’re there. It’s a perfect place for those who want to get away from it all. The only sounds you’ll hear are the rustling of leaves, the occasional bird song, and maybe the distant chatter of someone else out for a walk.

It’s the kind of place where you can switch off from the stresses of everyday life and just enjoy being present in nature. Whether you’re walking solo or with a loved one, the serenity of the woods is something that really hits home.

The Views

While the woods themselves are stunning, the views beyond are equally impressive. Situated on the western edge of the Northumberland National Park, Thrunton Woods offers some breathtaking vistas, especially if you take a wander up towards the hills. On a clear day, you can catch sight of the nearby Simonside Hills, the Cheviot Hills in the distance, and across the vast, open landscape of Northumberland. It’s a perfect spot to stop, take a breath, and appreciate the beauty of the region.

Family-Friendly Fun

Thrunton Woods is also a great spot for families, especially if you’ve got kids who enjoy exploring. There are plenty of easy-to-follow paths, so you won’t have to worry about anyone getting lost. The woods are a great place to let little ones run around and use their imaginations.

In the spring and summer months, the woods are full of wildflowers, which can make for a lovely backdrop for a picnic. There are also plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities, so kids can keep their eyes peeled for creatures along the way.

Looking towards Castle Hill and the Cheviots from Thrunton Crags

THRUNTON WOOD Trails and Walks

If you’re into walking or hiking, Thrunton Woods has some cracking trails. There are 2 way marked Forestry England routes to choose from, depending on how long or strenuous you want your walk to be. These routes are shown at the signs in the car park and are colour coded.

1. CRAG TOP WALK – at 1 mile – this is the shortest route

Starting from the main car park, the Crag Top walk is a short route with great views of the Cheviots from Thrunton Crags. 

2. Castle Hill Walk (5 miles) is a more demanding route with a long ascent.

Starting from the main car park, the Castle Hill walk is a demanding route with a long ascent, where you will be reward you with great views of the Cheviots from Thrunton Crags. 

Find out more here https://www.forestryengland.uk/thrunton-wood/walking-trails-thrunton-wood

My favourite view at Thrunton Woods is at Coe Craggs – which you’ll see on the walk below – but not on the way marked trails 

MY FAVOURITE THRUNTON WOODS WALK:

My favourite route in and around Thrunton Woods is a bit of a leg stretcher at 8.5 miles. It is not an official way marked route – but has my favourite views and follows clearly defined footpaths. It has a bit of everything – the lofty crag views and a nice bit of woodland walking at the end. Note Thrunton Woods is still suffering from tree fall and disruption from the storms of 2021 (even a few years later) – so some areas of the woodland are closed off – you’ll see fallen trees. This route however is fully open and accessible.

My favourite Thrunton Woods route is 8.5 miles and goes in an anti-clockwise direction. From the car park you follows the well-defined trail path through the woods, then head onto Thrunton Crag. There has been a lot of forestry work here, but you’ll get soem cracking views over towards The Cheviots and Castle Hill from Callahy Crag. It’s a little big bogy around this section – so walking boots are a must! From there we head to Hard Nab and the southern path skirts around the woodland. The steepest section of the walk is up onto Long Crag but it doesnt take that long. My favourite section of the walk and views is from Long Crag to Coe Craggs – and Coe Craggs is definitely worth stopping and soaking up the views. We then descend down into the woods and the paths are a little tricky to follow here due to fallen trees – so keep referring to your navigation apps! Once down it a lobely lesirely stroll back to the car park!

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There’s miles of woodland paths winding in and around Thrunton woods

What to Bring for a Day at Thrunton Woods

Before you head out to Thrunton Woods, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Here’s a quick checklist of things to bring to make the most of your trip:

• Good Footwear – The paths can get muddy, especially after rainfall, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots.

• Water – Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on doing a longer walk.

• Snacks – If you’re planning on making a day of it, pack some sandwiches or a snack to enjoy while you take in the views.

• Map or Guide – While the trails are fairly well-marked, it’s always good to have a map or or phone app to hand!

• Binoculars – If you’re into birdwatching, don’t forget a pair of binoculars to get up close to the feathered residents of the woods.

Best Times to Visit Thrunton Woods

While Thrunton Woods is beautiful year-round, the best times to visit depend on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

• Spring is a particularly magical time, with bluebells carpeting the forest floor and the air filled with the sounds of birdsong.

• Summer is great if you want to make the most of long daylight hours and enjoy a picnic in the woods.

• Autumn brings a stunning array of colours to the trees, with the leaves turning golden and fiery red. It’s a photographer’s dream.

• Winter might be cold, but if you’re up for braving the chill, there’s something beautiful about the bare trees and the crisp air. Plus, you’ll have the place almost to yourself.

Thrunton Woods for Nature Lovers and History Buffs

While Thrunton Woods is mainly about getting outdoors and enjoying the stunning scenery, there’s also a bit of history to discover. The area around the woods has been home to various communities for thousands of years, with ancient stone circles and remnants of old settlements scattered throughout the landscape.

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In Summary: Why VISIT Thrunton Woods 

Thrunton Woods is an absolute gem of Northumberland, offering something for everyone – whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a family looking for an adventure, or just someone seeking a bit of peace and quiet in nature. The combination of tranquil woodlands, picturesque views, and a range of walks makes it one of the best places in the area to explore.

It’s a place that’s perfect for escaping from it all, whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or planning a longer hike. So, next time you’re in Northumberland, make sure Thrunton Woods is on your list of places to visit. It’s a slice of nature that’ll leave you feeling refreshed, recharged, and, most likely, already planning your next visit.

Happy exploring!