The best walks and hikes around Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage
4.4
(254)
2,018
hikers
76
hikes
Hiking around Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage explores a landscape of rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and extensive forests in the Scottish Borders. The region is characterized by the Liddel Water valley and its proximity to the large Newcastleton and Kielder Forests. The terrain offers a mix of riverside paths, forest tracks, and more challenging upland routes. Hikers can experience a blend of woodland, riverside, and upland environments.
Best hiking trails around Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage
- The most popular hiking route is the Historic Stone Building – Kielder Castle loop from Kielder, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour to complete. This easy route features a historic stone building and gentle paths suitable for most abilities.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is the Great North Trail: Riccarton Junction Loop, a moderate 6.9 miles (11.1 km) path. This trail explores historical railway lines and scenic woodlands.
- Local hikers also love the Hermitage Castle and Hartsgarth Fell loop, a 12.1 miles (19.5 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 5 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage is defined by vast forest tracks, quiet riverside walks, and open moorland. The network of trails provides options for different fitness levels, from short, easy loops to longer, more demanding hikes.
- The routes in Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
3.9
(29)
93
hikers
12.9km
03:31
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
123
hikers
11.3km
03:26
410m
410m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(4)
79
hikers
41.2km
10:56
420m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(4)
26
hikers
19.8km
05:45
490m
500m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
23
hikers
4.44km
01:14
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Kielder Castle is a charming 18th-century hunting lodge in Northumberland, built in 1775 for the Duke of Northumberland. Today, it serves as a vibrant visitor center and the starting point for numerous walking and cycling routes, including the famous Lakeside Way. Although the castle is currently undergoing renovations, the information center remains open and the surrounding facilities are accessible. It's an ideal base for exploring England's largest forest. It houses the Kielder Visitor Center and the Cafe at the Castle.
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The Kielder Viaduct in Northumberland is a masterpiece of Victorian railway engineering from the 19th century, with seven skewed stone arches and an ornate baronial style replete with battlements and loopholes—custom-built for the Duke of Northumberland. Once transporting coal and timber to Scotland, it is now a monumental jewel on Kielder Reservoir, saved from demolition and reborn as part of the Lakeside Way: a scenic walkway. The viaduct is not only technically impressive but also culturally enriched with ornate wrought iron panels, designed by children and forged by local craftspeople.
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Lovely walk across the top of the dam and back again, easy walking
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This dramatic and historic landmark is tucked amongst the trees on the edge of Kielder village. The viaduct was built in 1862 to extend the route of the Border Counties railway line into Scotland. The railway company wanted to build it across the River North Tyne in front of the Duke of Northumberland's hunting lodge at Kielder Castle. Apparently the Duke insisted it should reflect the castle's Gothic style, hence why the structure is decorated with battlements and false arrow slits.
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This beautiful elegant viaduct consists of seven semi-circular masonry skew arches and was built in 1862 by the North British Railway to carry the Border Counties Line across marshy land. It is a dramatic and historic landmark tucked amongst the trees on the edge of Kielder village. The views of the forest and reservoir from the top are spectacular, and you can walk beneath it to marvel at its soaring skew arches.
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Kielder Forest is the largest man-made woodland in Northumberland, England. The United Kingdom's Forestry Commission initiated the first plantings in the 1920's. Kielder Castle is now the focal point for visitors to the forest, and was originally Built in 1775 as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Northumberland. The Castle houses a series of exhibitions about the forest and its wildlife, together with an information centre and Kielder Castle Cafe. It is now an activity hub and the start and finish location for a whole range of hiking, running and biking routes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, the region has several gentle trails perfect for families. The extensive Newcastleton Forest offers waymarked paths like the short Ponds Trail. For a route with a bit of history, the Keilder Viaduct loop is an easy walk that crosses a historic viaduct and is suitable for most abilities.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on most trails in Upper Liddesdale and Hermitage, especially in the vast forest areas. Always keep them under control, particularly near farmland with livestock. The forest tracks provide plenty of space for dogs to explore, but be mindful of wildlife and other trail users.
What is the landscape like for hiking in this region?
The hiking landscape is defined by a mix of vast coniferous forests, open moorland, and tranquil riverside paths along the Liddel Water. The terrain is characterized by the rolling hills of the Southern Uplands, offering everything from gentle forest tracks to more demanding upland treks with expansive views.
Are there any circular walks available?
Many of the best routes in the area are circular. For a unique woodland experience, the Kielder Castle to Silvas Capitalis loop is a popular moderate option. It takes you through Kielder Forest to a distinctive giant head sculpture.
Where can I find challenging, long-distance hikes?
For those seeking a challenge, the area offers several difficult trails. The Kielder Lakeside Way is a substantial 41 km trek around the reservoir. Another demanding option is the Hermitage Castle and Hartsgarth Fell loop, a 19.5 km hike that provides a true sense of wilderness and fantastic views.
What historical sites can I see on a walk?
The region is steeped in the history of the Border Reivers. The most significant landmark is the formidable Hermitage Castle, a semi-ruined 13th-century fortress. Many walks in the vicinity offer views of the castle and explore the landscape where this turbulent history unfolded.
Where is the best place to park for hikes near Hermitage Castle?
There is a dedicated car park at Hermitage Castle which serves as an excellent starting point for several walks in the immediate area. For trails starting in Newcastleton or Kielder Forest, you will find designated parking areas near the trailheads and visitor centers.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the hiking trails?
The village of Newcastleton is the main hub for amenities in the area. You can find a selection of pubs, cafes, and shops there to relax and refuel after a hike in the surrounding forests. Kielder village also offers options for food and drink, particularly near the castle and visitor centre.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Upper Liddesdale and Hermitage?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the vast forests, the well-maintained tracks, and the blend of natural beauty with the region's rich history.
How many hiking trails are there in Upper Liddesdale and Hermitage?
There are over 80 curated hiking routes available on komoot for this region. These range from 30 easy walks suitable for all abilities to over 50 moderate and difficult trails for those seeking more of a challenge.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The forests and moorlands are a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and roe deer, especially within Newcastleton and Kielder Forests. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with the chance to spot ospreys and other birds of prey over the hills and water.
Are there any good hikes with views?
Yes, several trails reward hikers with stunning views. The Deadwater Fell loop is a challenging route that climbs to a summit offering panoramic vistas across Kielder Forest and the surrounding Borders landscape.
Most popular routes around Upper Liddesdale And Hermitage
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