The Best Locations for Dog Walks in Northumberland

With its rolling hills and glistening coastlines, there’s countless wonderful locations for dog walks in Northumberland. Showcasing some of the most scenic dog walking spots, it’ll be sure to get your tail wagging! 

Stretching a whopping 5,000km, Northumberland hosts many iconic landmarks including Alnwick Castle and Hadrians Wall.

For this reason alone, it can be overwhelming to even think about where to start planning your outdoor adventures. So, it’s time for walkies, where should we go?

We’ve compiled a handy guide on some of our favourite locations for dog walks in Northumberland. Keep reading to find out more…

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle Walk

If your furry friends are a fan of fresh, sea air, then the Craster to Dunstanburgh castle walk is sure to blow away those cobwebs!

This 5-mile blustery trail will take you straight along the beautiful Craster coastline. There’s panoramic sea views along the way, and Dunstanburgh Castle standing tall at the finish line.

With a facinating history dating back over 700 years, Dunstanburgh Castle is a must.

The scenic trail travels through the quaint fishing village of Craster. Here you’ll find a convenience store to stock up on all the essentials for your afternoon excursion.

For an off-lead adventure, follow the trail through peaceful open farmland. Be mindful of any sheep or wildlife along the way! The route continues straight to the castle itself, providing the perfect photo backdrop.

Even the most energetic dogs will need a pit-stop to refuel after taking in all that sea air. Be sure to stop off at The Jolly Fisherman for a crisp pint served alongside their ‘jolly-famous’ crab sandwich.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of the dolphins that occasionally put on a show for diners during the summer season!

Hadrian’s Wall Path

An iconic landmark of Northumberland, a walk alongside Hadrian’s Wall is a must on any visit to the county! Stretching over 84 miles coast to coast, that’s a lot of walking!

The route begins in the town of Wallsend, sitting to the east of Tyne and Wear. There’s plenty of sights to see along the way, with the trail traversing along the riverside in Tyneside and through the farmland of Tynedale.

This much-loved route showcases some of the best scenery in Northumberland, cutting through the rolling hills of the National Park. The remains of Britains most famous wall acts as a waymarker, making it easy to keep to the route.

Be sure to pack plenty of food and drink for your canine companions, as the rural nature of this Northumberland walk means amenities are scarce.

Hadrian’s Wall Walk Route Map

Boulmer Beach

Boulmer beach, pronounced ‘Boomer’ by the locals, is a glorious, 2-mile, stretch of coastline. If you’re looking for a peaceful, quiet beach walk, then Boulmer beach is the perfect place for you.

This beach is situated in a very secluded area, acting as the main attraction of this small fishing village. Boulmer beach is dog-friendly, and four-legged friends are regularly seen off-lead, enjoying the brisk sea air.

A small, family-run, dog-friendly pub is situated on the shores of Boulmer beach. The Fishing Boat Inn allows canine companions in their front bar area and back patio.

Accessible directly from the beach via a set of wooden steps, it’s the perfect place to soak in the scenery with a tipple in hand.

If you’re feeling peckish, order from a heartwarming menu of home-cooked food. They even serve tasty sausage treats for their four-legged customers!

Kielder Forest Dog-Friendly Walks

As the largest forest in England, there are countless dog-friendly Kielder Forest walks to follow. Each trail winds through the towering woodland, providing the perfect secluded spot to enjoy a stroll away from the hustle and bustle.

One of the most scenic of routes through the Kielder forest is the Lakeside Way. Stretching 26 miles in length, the trail hugs the shores of the largest man made reservoir in Europe and promises sights of an abundance of magnificent wildlife.

The Warksburn Walking Trails are a favourite amongst furry friends. A much shorter walk at only 1.5 miles, each route loops back on itself, starting and ending at the Warksburn picnic area.

There’s plenty to explore along the way, including the Kielder burn, the Black Dyke and a Pine shelter belt, ideal for providing shelter from the elements on those rainy days.

The Forest Bar and Kitchen overlooks the shores of Kielder water, providing panoramic views of the serene surroundings. A pet-friendly place to eat in Northumberland, it’s the perfect place for a pit stop during your walk.

Longhoughton Steel Beach

North of Boulmer, Longhoughton Steel Beach is a hidden gem settled on the coast of the rural village of Longhoughton.

This remote, isolated beach can be accessed from the village itself following the Low Steads Farm track. Pass directly through the farm making sure to watch out for Meg, the Farmer’s Border Collie, as she may try to herd you!

The path continues past the farm, surrounded by miles of picture-perfect farmland, eventually leading down to the beachfront. The walk from Longhoughton village to Longhoughton beach takes roughly 40 minutes each way.

Truly unique compare to other local walking routes, this walk is a wonderful way to soak in the stunning 360-degree views across Northumberland.

Dogs are welcome on this beach with no restrictions. And to top off your day, head to the small, dog-friendly café Company B. With complimentary dog treats, coffee and fresh, home-made cakes!

Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle is a walk that the whole family can enjoy, dogs included. This Northumberland fortress towers high above the River Coquet from it’s hilltop position in Morpeth.

Here you can marvel at the medieval architecutre of the castles cross shaped tower, built over 600 years ago.

Your pooch is sure to enjoy a stroll to reach the hermitage, where the peaceful trail runs alongside the river. You’ll embark on a short boat trip to reach the building, believed to have been carved from rock for the first Earl of Northumberland.

There’s regular events held on the grounds of Warkworth Castle, along with lots of space for little ones and their furry friends to run free.

A stone’s throw from Warkworth Beach and the charming town of Amble, there’s an array of wonderful walks nearby. How does a spot of fish and chips with a far-reaching view from Amble South Pier sound?

Fancy a four-legged adventure with a dog walk in Northumberland? Find your perfect base with a stay in one of our Northumberland holiday cottages.

And for some inspiration on where to eat during your stay, give our guide on dining out in Northumberland a read! 

Images courtesy of: Jonathan Wilkins – (CC BY-SA 2.0)

This blog was updated based on original content written by Northumbria Coast and Country Cottages.