The best walks and hikes around Belsay

Yes, Belsay is excellent for circular hikes. A great moderate option is the Shaftoe Crags – Salters Nick Gorge loop from Bolam, which offers panoramic views from the moorland and takes you through a gorge once used by smugglers. The route covers about 7.5 miles (12.1 km).

For a gentle walk that's great for all ages, the Wallington Hall and River Wansbeck loop is a popular choice. It's a short, easy trail of about 2.9 miles (4.6 km) that follows paths through a historic forested estate and along the scenic River Wansbeck.

Many trails in the countryside around Belsay are suitable for walking with dogs, but be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required. The grounds of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens have specific rules, so it's best to check their policy before visiting. Dogs are generally welcome on public footpaths like those found on the Wannie Line walk.

The Quarry Garden offers a unique walking experience through a dramatic, man-made ravine with its own microclimate. You'll see high rock walls of Carboniferous sandstone, exotic plants, lush ferns, and vibrant rhododendrons. It's a very picturesque and geologically interesting part of the Belsay estate.

While Belsay village itself is small, several hiking routes pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. You can plan a route that starts or ends in a nearby village like Bolam or Capheaton to combine your walk with a visit to a local pub for refreshments.

The main car park is at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens. Please note that parking fees may apply, especially for non-members of English Heritage. This car park is the most convenient starting point for exploring the estate's gardens, woods, and the castle itself.

The Wannie Line walk from Scots' Gap follows the route of a former railway line through the Northumberland countryside. It's a moderate trail of about 6.7 miles (10.8 km) that offers a relatively flat and straightforward path, making it great for experiencing the region's pastoral landscapes.

For a quieter experience away from the main estates, consider the St. Andrew's Church, Hartburn – Hartburn Grotto loop from Bolam. This easy walk takes you through peaceful countryside to a historic church and a unique 18th-century grotto, offering a more tranquil outing.

Getting to Belsay via public transport can be challenging as it's a rural area. Bus services run from Newcastle to nearby towns, but you may need to combine this with a taxi for the final leg to Belsay. It's best to check the latest bus timetables and routes in advance to plan your journey.

The immediate Belsay area is not known for significant waterfalls. The landscape is characterized more by its rolling hills, historic estates, and sandstone crags. For waterfalls, you would typically need to travel further into the Northumberland National Park.

The trails around Belsay are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the unique Quarry Garden and historic estates to the expansive views from the moorlands at Shaftoe Crags.

You can find over 50 hiking routes around Belsay on komoot. These range from short, easy walks suitable for families to more challenging moderate trails, offering plenty of options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.