Bamburgh Castle stands proud and majestic on the rugged Northumberland coast. This circular walk starts in Bamburgh itself and heads to the serene Budle Bay, where you’re greeted by expansive views over tidal mudflats and salt marshes, towarsd Holy Island, where wildlife thrives in the quiet stillness of the landscape. As you stroll around the coastal path, the distant silhouette of Bamburgh Castle gradually comes into view, rising majestically above the village with its formidable stone walls and turrets. The route offers stunning views of the rugged Northumberland coastline and the sparkling North Sea. 

This is my favourite section of the wall to walk and is only around 3 miles (linear route). You’ll park at The Sill and walk Hadrian’s Wall from Steel Rigg to Housesteads, which is an unforgettable journey through history and stunning landscapes. The route begins at Steel Rigg, where you’re greeted by sweeping views of the dramatic, rugged terrain of the Pennines. As you follow the wall eastward, the path meanders over undulating hills, offering panoramic vistas of the Northumberland National Park. The ancient stone wall itself, once a mighty Roman frontier, snakes across the landscape, with remnants of forts, milecastles, and turrets along the way, each offering a glimpse into the past. You’ll pass where once stoof the iconic tree at Sycamore Gap, and eventually reach Housesteads, one of the best-preserved Roman forts along the wall, where you can be transported back in time as you explore its well-preserved structures and imagine life on the frontier. Once at Housesteads you can catch teh regular Hadrian’s Wall bus back to The Sill car park. 

Walking to Dunstanburgh Castle from Embleton is a scenic and invigorating journey that takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Northumberland and on my favourite beach in Northumberland. The path follows the coastline, where the sight and sound of the North Sea accompany you as you stroll through golden sands and grassy dunes. As you walk along the beach, the majestic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle gradually come into view, standing tall on a rocky headland overlooking the sea. The walk offers not only stunning coastal views but also a sense of history, as the castle’s imposing silhouette has stood as a sentinel over the area for centuries. The route is peaceful and largely unspoiled, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the landscape and the atmosphere of ancient history as you approach the dramatic and atmospheric ruins of one of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks.

Walking the Simonside Hills offers a truly enchanting experience, where the rugged beauty of Northumberland’s landscape unfolds at every turn. The path takes you through heathery moorlands and rolling hills, with dramatic rock formations that give the area its distinctive character. As you ascend, the views become increasingly spectacular, with wide vistas of the surrounding valleys, the distant Cheviot Hills, and the lush forests below. The terrain is varied, from grassy slopes to rocky outcrops, providing a mix of gentle walking and more challenging climbs. The Simonside Hills are also steeped in history and folklore, with ancient hillforts and mysterious rock carvings adding an intriguing historical dimension to the hike. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Northumberland, the Simonside Hills offer a rewarding and peaceful escape.

Walking to Warkworth Castle from Amble is a delightful journey that blends coastal beauty with historical charm. The route takes you along the peaceful banks of the River Coquet, with the gentle flow of water and the sound of birdsong creating a serene atmosphere. As you make your way towards Warkworth, the path offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside and the distant hills, with the castle gradually coming into sight atop a hill, its medieval towers and walls standing proud against the sky. The walk is gentle and relaxed, offering plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the scenery, before arriving at the impressive Warkworth Castle itself, a well-preserved fortress steeped in history. The combination of the scenic river walk and the dramatic castle ruins creates a memorable experience, making this route a perfect way to explore both the natural and historical treasures of Northumberland.