Family‑Friendly Routes in Northumberland

Easy Trails with Big Adventure Potential

‍

Northumberland offers more than epic wild hikes—it’s packed with gentle, scenic routes perfect for families and beginners. Discover coastal strolls, historic sites, river paths, and woodland wonderlands—all without summit anxiety or little legs giving up.

Why Northumberland Suits Family Adventures

• Sand and grass beaches, castle ruins, river paths, woods—variety to spark curiosity
  
  
• Easy terrain: flat or gently sloping, perfect for kids
  
  
• Plenty of amenities: cafés, playgrounds, toilets close to trailheads
  
  
• Great wildlife and heritage: birds, seals, Roman walls
  
  

Top Pick Routes

1. Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle Coastal Walk

• Distance: ~6.5 miles (10.5 km) circular or out‑and‑back
  
  
• Time: ~2.5–3 hrs
  
  
• Highlights: Sand dunes, harbour, castle ruins, seals, rock pools
  
  
• Family Notes: Mostly flat paths with beach access; finish with fish & chips in Craster
  
  

2. Beadnell to Low Newton Coastal & Wetland Trail

• Distance: ~4 miles (6.5 km) out‑and‑back
  
  
• Time: ~1.5–2 hrs
  
  
• Highlights: Sandy bay, dunes, wildlife hides, seals, wading birds
  
  
• Family Notes: Easy terrain, optional stop at The Ship Inn in Low Newton
  
  

3. Simonside Family Walk – Northumberland National Park

• Distance: ~3 miles (4.8 km) circular
  
  
• Time: ~1.5 hrs
  
  
• Highlights: Woodland, panoramic views, open moorland
  
  
• Family Notes: Moderate incline but short; dogs welcome—paths pram-accessible in parts
  
  

4. Walltown Country Park (Hadrian’s Wall)

• Distance: 3–5 km circuits
  
  
• Time: ~1–2 hrs
  
  
• Highlights: Roman wall remains, Visitor Centre, accessible paths
  
  
• Family Notes: Smooth trails, interpretive panels; pram and wheelchair friendly
  
  

5. Carlisle Park, Morpeth

• Distance: 1–2 km loops
  
  
• Time: ~30 mins–1 hr
  
  
• Highlights: Aviary, paddling pool, playground, floral clock
  
  
• Family Notes: Perfect for toddlers; café and toilets on site
  
  

6. Bolam Lake Country Park

• Distance: ~2.4 km (1.5 mi) loop
  
  
• Time: ~1 hr
  
  
• Highlights: Lake, woodland, wildlife (red squirrels, waterfowl), visitor centre
  
  
• Family Notes: Wheelchair/pram friendly, toilets and café, free parking for 1 hr
  
  

Advice for Family Walks in Northumberland

• Layer up: coastal weather changes fast
  
  
• Bring snacks & water: cafés may close early
  
  
• Check dog rules: some wildlife sections require leads
  
  
• Use maps/apps: signal can drop in remote areas
  
  
• Timing: late spring and summer work best for wildlife & amenities
  
  

Best Times to Walk

• Spring/Summer: beach days, wildlife, warm air
  
  
• Autumn: quieter trails, golden light, seasonal colours
  
  

Winter: calm countryside and crisp winter light; shorter walks still worthwhile

‍

Photo by Ray Harrington on Unsplash