The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Irthington
4.3
(789)
3,976
hikers
5
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Irthington are set within a landscape shaped by history and natural features. The region is characterized by the presence of Hadrian's Wall, the meandering River Irthing with its varied characteristics from farmland to a deep, wooded gorge, and diverse terrain including rolling downlands and ancient woodlands. These physical features provide a range of environments for outdoor exploration. The area offers paths along riverbanks and through agricultural fields, providing accessible routes for families.
Best family friendly…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(4)
28
hikers
20.2km
05:20
190m
190m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
8
hikers
4.68km
01:14
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
6
hikers
4.34km
01:08
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
2
hikers
7.84km
02:01
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
2
hikers
6.43km
01:41
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a great snack shed, and the local owners were incredibly friendly. The lady of the house made us soup, which was served with a bread roll. This was very welcome on a wet, windy day, and we had a very nice conversation with her too. The place has some seats, overhead cover, and a shed full of snacks, microwave meals, and drinks, all neatly boxed and priced.
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This impressive Augustinian priory, founded around 1169, is just a stone's throw from Hadrian's Wall. Its ruins tell stories of kings, wars, and pilgrims. King Edward I stayed here in 1306 during his final campaign against the Scots, and Robert the Bruce later attacked the monastery. The church ruins still stand tall, with a dramatic triple-arched structure. Built partly with stones from Hadrian's Wall, they include Roman inscriptions. Inside, you'll find the Lanercost Cross (1214) and the Lanercost Dossal, a work of art designed by William Morris.
11
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Lovely little stop and so much to offer. Didn't really need anything, but want to support places like this so stopped for ice cream and drinks .
0
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Really great, the hikers are thought of here.
0
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Amazing rest spot. This small shed and picnic benches are in a kind stranger’s front garden (open from dawn to dusk, I assume when they close their front gates). It started as a way for the owner to earn some extra pennies as a 13 year old and has morphed into a hiker’s rest paradise. In the shed, you can finds frozen microwave meals and a microwave, a drinks fridge, and all kinds of snacks. The prices are incredibly reasonable. :)
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0
To the right of the church entrance door is a tap with fresh water. :)
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Irthington?
There are 6 family-friendly hiking trails around Irthington featured in this guide. Most of these, 4 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Irthington?
The trails around Irthington offer a diverse landscape, from gentle paths through agricultural fields and rolling downlands to quiet riverbank walks. You might also encounter ancient woodlands, providing varied scenery for your family adventure.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Irthington are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the The Sally Inn – Wellbeck Snack Shed loop from Irthington is an easy circular walk perfect for a family outing.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can we see on these trails?
Irthington is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore sections of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or walk along the River Irthing. Notable attractions include the historic Lanercost Priory and the dramatic Irthing Gorge, home to the Crammel Linn waterfall. You might also spot peregrine falcons and ravens in the gorge area.
Are there any trails suitable for pushchairs or strollers?
While specific pushchair-friendly routes are not explicitly detailed for all trails, the easy-rated routes generally feature gentler paths. We recommend checking the route details and terrain descriptions for individual tours like the Wellbeck Snack Shed – The Sally Inn loop from Irthington to assess suitability for your specific pushchair.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Irthington?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for family hiking, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the varied terrain, including woodlands and river paths, can be beautiful in autumn with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Many trails in the Irthington area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. Please be mindful of local signage and regulations.
Where can we find refreshments or places to eat near the trails?
Several routes incorporate stops or pass near places offering refreshments. For instance, the The Sally Inn – Wellbeck Snack Shed loop from Irthington and the The Sally Inn – Solway Aviation Museum loop from Irthington both feature The Sally Inn, a local pub, as part of their names, suggesting convenient spots for a break.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Irthington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 750 ratings. Reviewers often praise the blend of historical sites like Hadrian's Wall with beautiful natural landscapes, making for engaging and varied family walks.
Are there any lakes or larger bodies of water to visit nearby?
Yes, a short distance from Irthington, you can find picturesque lakes perfect for a family visit. Talkin Tarn Lake is a popular spot, offering opportunities for walking and wildlife watching in a serene setting. Castle Carrock Reservoir is another beautiful option.
How long do the family-friendly walks typically take?
The duration of the walks varies depending on the route and your family's pace. The easy trails, such as the The Sally Inn – Wellbeck Snack Shed loop from Irthington, can be completed in about 1.5 hours, covering around 4.7 km. Longer routes like the Wellbeck Snack Shed loop from Irthington might take closer to 2.5 hours for 7.8 km.
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