Alnwick, located in the picturesque county of Northumberland, is a perfect destination for those seeking a walking holiday filled with stunning scenery, historic sites, and charming villages. With its proximity to the Northumberland coast and the Northumberland National Park, Alnwick offers a diverse range of walking routes to suit all levels of ability. Alnwick, and Hourglass Holiday Homes, make the perfect base for seeing the best of Northumberland by foot.
Here are 3 of our favourite walks:
Easy – Hulne Park
This walk can be done straight from the door of your holiday home. Head out of Alnwick on Canongate, and into Hulne Park which extends over 3000 acres. You’ll walk through peaceful parkland filled with wonderful wildlife, and see beautiful views across the Northumberland National Park as you head higher. Head to Brizlee Tower which was built in 1781, and stop for a picnic there to enjoy the views before you head back down. Alternatively, our favourite is to enjoy the walk, then head back for lunch at The Dirty Bottles. *It’s important to note that no dogs are allowed in the park.
Moderate – Ingram Valley and Linhope Spout
Ingram Valley is a 20 minute drive from Alnwick, and worth a visit for a beautiful day in the lush green valleys of Ingram, in the Northumberland National Park. This hidden gem has peaceful surroundings and tranquil walking trails, as well as meadows, woodlands and rivers. Many take a picnic, head out for a walk, then spend a peaceful hour or two by the river. You’ll see families of all ages splodging in the water, playing ball games and just enjoying the natural surroundings. We like to head up to Linhope Spout waterfall, a walk that takes about an hour each way if you park alongside the River Breamish. Brave souls can jump into the waterfall (a popular pass-time), or alternatively you can just enjoy the scenery. More information on this walk can be found on the Northumberland National Park website and there are plenty of other routes of varying difficulties in this area of the Breamish Valley.
Hard – The Cheviots
There are some tough climbs in the surrounding Northumberland National Park, and each of them will feel like a significant achievement when you’ve completed them. Peaceful routes off the beaten track with views that will take your breath away. Cheviot is the highest peak in the area reaching 815m, and Simonside and Windy Gyle are other notable achievements. There are also lots of other similar routes that will challenge your fitness and earn you your dinner! With each of these we’d recommend proper route planning, taking a map and being prepared for all possible weather eventualities. We like the routes planned by local expert Paul Mithinson on Outdoors Magic in collaboration with Komoot. His 5 recommended walks are:
Harbottle Circular
Windy Gyle and the Border Ridge
Yeavering Bell and Humbleton Hill
The Cheviot via the Hen Hole
Wild Camp from Alwinton
These walking routes offer a mix of coastal views, historic sites, and natural beauty, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes surrounding Alnwick. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a longer hike, these routes provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Northumberland’s countryside and coastline. Lace up your walking boots, pack a picnic, and set off on an adventure from Alnwick to discover the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of this region. And if you’ve got a favourite walk near Alnwick, let us know; we love a new adventure. 
