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Best bird watching hiking trails in Northumberland
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Best bird watching hiking trails in Northumberland

Birdwatchers rejoice! These trails are teeming with avian life, offering plenty of opportunities to spot rare birds and fill your heart (and binoculars) with joy.

Here are some great trails to explore in Northumberland.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Slaley Forest Circular

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (7) · 10.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 24 min

2

Easy

Ponteland Park Loop

Northumberland, England · star 4.0 (5) · 8.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 42 min

3

Easy

River Wansbeck Streamside Walk - Morpeth

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (4) · 4.2 km · Est. 53 min

4

Easy

Bolam Lake and Shaftoe Crags Loop

Northumberland, England · star 4.0 (1) · 15.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 18 min

5

Easy

Bolam Lake Country Park and Woodland Loop

Northumberland, England · star 4.0 (3) · 10.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 14 min

6

Easy

Rothbury to Kirkwhelpington Walk

Northumberland, England · star 4.0 (2) · 23.7 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

7

Easy

Heddon on the Wall to Chollerford Walk

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (4) · 25.7 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

8

Easy

Ladyburn Lake Loop

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (3) · 2.8 km · Est. 35 min

9

Easy

Branton Lakes, Cochrane Pike and Ewe Hill Loop

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (7) · 14.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 26 min

10

Easy

Bamburgh Coast and Hills Loop

Northumberland, England · star 5.0 (7) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

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Reviews for bird watching hiking trails in Northumberland

Dan Leadbitter avatar

Slaley Forest Circular

Dan 555 路 reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Tracy Dover avatar

Ponteland Park Loop

Tracy 路 reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Great walk, easy to follow the app, lots of countryside.

Jewel Pfeffer avatar

River Wansbeck Streamside Walk - Morpeth

RavineAspenseeker70 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Glenn Reay avatar

Bolam Lake and Shaftoe Crags Loop

GlennsHikingTrails 路 reviewed 11 months ago

star star star star star

Lovely walk and excellent views from Shaftoe Craggs and an easy route to follow. Mainly dog friendly, although there are sections on the road and through farmers fields where they will need to be kept on a lead.

Chris Falzon avatar

Bolam Lake Country Park and Woodland Loop

HappyHiker 路 reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Northumberland

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape.聽

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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