The best walks and hikes around Edlingham

There are nearly 180 hiking routes around Edlingham, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find 83 easy trails, 84 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging hikes to explore the diverse landscapes of Northumberland.

Hiking around Edlingham features a varied landscape of rolling hills, grassy fields, and woodlands. You'll encounter moorland, sandstone crags like Redheugh Crag, and paths through valleys. The area's topography includes elevations suitable for moderate climbs, offering expansive views across Northumberland.

Yes, Edlingham offers several excellent circular walks. A popular option is the Coe Crag and Long Crag Circular Trail, which is a moderate 13.8 km route exploring the crags and providing scenic countryside views. Another great choice is the Coe Crags Summit – Long Crag Summit loop from Wandy Bridge, an 8.7 km moderate hike.

Edlingham is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Edlingham Castle, a 13th-century fortified castle, which is freely accessible via a grassy path. Nearby is the historic St. John the Baptist Church, built on an 8th-century site. An imposing Victorian viaduct also runs directly behind the castle, adding a striking man-made feature to the natural backdrop. Further afield, you might encounter ancient sites like the Lordenshaw Cup and Ring Marked Rock, an Iron Age hillfort with Bronze Age burial mounds.

Yes, the area features Corby's Letch, a scenic two-level waterfall. You can also find impressive sandstone formations like Redheugh Crag and explore Edlingham Woods, which hold the intriguing Bigges Pillar, offering additional viewpoints.

The routes in Edlingham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 860 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the blend of historical sites with natural beauty, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various abilities.

Edlingham offers several easy routes that are suitable for families. While specific family-focused routes aren't highlighted, the 83 easy trails available provide gentler terrain and shorter distances, perfect for walks with children. Many routes incorporate historical landmarks like Edlingham Castle, which can add an engaging element for younger explorers.

Many trails in Edlingham are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Northumberland countryside with your canine companion. However, as the area includes farmland and wildlife, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature conservation areas, and to follow the Countryside Code.

Absolutely. The rolling hills and moorland surrounding Edlingham provide numerous opportunities for expansive views. Ascending to locations like Freemanshill Moor (251 meters) or tackling Simonside Summit (429m) will reward you with sensational panoramas of the Cheviot Hills and the Northumbrian coastline. The View of Thrunton Wood – View from Top Crag loop from Thrunton Trout Fishery also leads through woodland and provides elevated viewpoints.

Edlingham offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer provides longer daylight hours and generally pleasant weather. Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage across the woodlands and hills. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, the landscapes can be stunning, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not listed here, Edlingham is a rural area, and many popular starting points for walks, especially those near attractions like Edlingham Castle or within areas like Thrunton Wood, typically offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions on komoot for detailed parking information before your visit.

While the majority of routes are easy to moderate, Edlingham does offer 12 more difficult trails for experienced trekkers seeking a challenge. These routes often involve greater elevation gain and longer distances, taking you to higher points like Simonside Summit for more strenuous climbs and rewarding views.