Easy hikes and walks around Sweethope Loughs
4.7
(47)
664
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking around Sweethope Loughs offers a diverse landscape characterized by two freshwater loughs, Great Lough and Little Lough, which are the headwaters of the Wansbeck River. The area features surrounding hills, fir plantations, and moorland, contributing to varied terrain. Rocky outcrops like Great Wanney Crag and Little Wanney Crag add dramatic elements to the scenery, while numerous wooded areas provide shaded paths. This region provides a network of easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels.
Best easy hiking trailsâŠ
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5
hikers
5.58km
01:26
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
3
hikers
6.28km
01:41
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
11
hikers
6.62km
01:48
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
18
hikers
6.17km
01:38
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The River North Tyne starts at Deadwater near Kielder. The water flows from here into Kielder reservoir before making its way through Bellingham, under the first bridge at Wark where it meets up with the southern source at Warden Rock near Hexham at a placed known as Watersmeet.
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The village of Wark stands on the west bank of the River North Tyne some ten miles north-west of Hexham and five miles south of Bellingham. It is sometimes referred to as Wark-on-Tyne, to distinguish it from Wark-on-Tweed.
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The green is in the centre of the village. It has a large tree in the middle, which is lit up at Christmas.
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The War Memorial is a tall stone cross mounted on a square stone base upon which are the inscriptions. It stands on the edge of the village green and is surrounded by gravel with a curved wall marking the perimeter with the green.
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The iron bridge was built by Hawks, Crawshay and Sons of Gateshead in 1878. The river is fairly wide at Wark and the bridge has seven piers with an island dividing the waters underneath.
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Wark Bridge is an iron bridge spanning the River North Tyne. It carries a single-lane narrow roadway on an iron superstructure borne on stone pillars. It's a lovely spot for taking in the pretty river views.
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Wark Bridge is an iron bridge spanning the River North Tyne. It carries a single-lane narrow roadway on an iron superstructure borne on stone pillars. It's a lovely spot for taking in the pretty river views.
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The east reservoir was constructed first in 1872 to provide water to Newcastle, Gateshead and the surrounding area. As the population grew the second west reservoir was constructed in 1889. The area is a local nature reserve surrounded by mixed woodland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Sweethope Loughs?
There are 5 easy hiking trails around Sweethope Loughs, offering a variety of landscapes from waterside paths to wooded sections.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in Sweethope Loughs?
Easy hikes in Sweethope Loughs feature serene waterscapes of Great Lough and Little Lough, surrounded by hills, fir plantations, and moorland. You'll also find wooded areas and, on some routes, views of rocky outcrops like Great Wanney Crag.
Are there any circular easy walks in the Sweethope Loughs area?
Yes, several easy routes are circular. For example, the Hallington Reservoir loop from Barrasford offers waterside views, and the Stone Bridge loop from Kirkwhelpington traverses varied terrain including wooded sections.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Sweethope Loughs?
The easy trails around Sweethope Loughs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, varied terrain, and the opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty.
Are the easy hiking trails suitable for families with children?
Yes, the easy trails are generally suitable for families. Routes like the Wallington Hall and River Wansbeck loop offer gentle gradients and manageable distances, making them enjoyable for various ages.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails around Sweethope Loughs?
Many trails in the Sweethope Loughs area are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland or near livestock, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any historical points of interest along the easy routes?
Yes, some easy routes incorporate historical elements. For instance, the Wark Bridge â Wark on Tyne Castle loop from Wark leads through riverside landscapes and past historical points of interest, including the remains of Wark on Tyne Castle.
What is the typical length and duration of an easy hike here?
Easy hikes around Sweethope Loughs typically range from 3 to 4.2 miles (4.6 to 6.8 km) in length. Most can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on your pace.
Are there any routes that follow a river or offer riverside views?
Yes, the region is known for its waterscapes. The River North Tyne loop from Wark offers pleasant riverside walking, and the Wansbeck River, whose headwaters are the loughs, also features in some routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the easy trails?
The easy trails feature varied terrain, including well-maintained paths, wooded sections, and open countryside. You'll encounter gentle gradients, making them accessible for most fitness levels.
Are there any villages or other reservoirs to see on these easy walks?
Yes, some routes pass through charming villages like Little Swinburn and Great Bington. You can also find other reservoirs, such as Hallington Reservoir, which is featured in the Hallington Reservoir loop from Barrasford.
Most popular routes around Sweethope Loughs
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