Specialist Walks

Distance: Approx 6 – 8 miles
Ascent/Descent: Undulating
Grade: 2, Moderate
Please allow a full day for this walk.

This walk is accessible by public transport as it begins and ends in the Market Place, Haltwhistle.

You say ‘litchen’; I say ‘liken’. Let’s call the whole thing ‘moss’. Except, of course, we can’t do that because mosses and lichens are not the same thing at all! Mosses and lichens play a hugely important role in a healthy ecosystem by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air.  But what makes a moss a moss and a lichen a lichen, what can they tell us about the environment, and how do they feed and spread?  Join our local expert, Gordon Beakes, to learn more about these fascinating organisms which thrive on everything from rocks and walls to trees and the woodland floor.

Ice, fire and water have all had a hand in creating our local landscape. Join Ian Jackson, local geologist and author of the best-selling book, Northumberland Rocks, and travel back in time with him to explore how ancient rocks have created an outstanding landscape which is now designated as a World Heritage Site. 

There are a couple of steep ascents to negotiate but the views and the knowledge gained will be well worth the effort. 

This walk is accessible by bus from Hexham.

From the pretty little village of Wark we will take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River North Tyne, and through the woods, enjoying the spring flowers. There will be plenty of opportunities to take photos along the route.

If water levels permit, and it is safe to do so, we will visit Gold Island, which stands in the River North Tyne. With any luck, the beautiful bluebells which grow there will be out!

Our return route offers excellent views across the North Tyne Valley.

The walk will be led by Kevin Hilton, who is an accomplished photographer. The group will also be encouraged to share their own knowledge and photographic techniques so be sure to bring your camera or mobile phone with you to capture what you see. A close-up lens may be helpful but no tripods, please.

Distance: Approx 4 miles
Ascent/Descent: Approx. 550 feet
Grade: 2, Moderate

24th JAN: WALK UPDATED

This walk which begins with a steady climb to Hareshaw Linn, a beautiful 9 metre high waterfall. The tree lined route is full of wildlife, such as red squirrels, which you may be lucky enough to spot. This is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest which hosts rare ferns and lichens.

Following the walk, we will take a tour of the award winning First and Last Brewery and learn more about the science, art and history of beer making. We will also have an opportunity to sample some of their wares! There will be non-alcoholic options available for non-drinkers and designated drivers.

Nick Leeming is a highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic birdwatcher who has lived in Haltwhistle for many years. His bird walks in the Spring Festival are legendary and are always fully attended so early booking is advised.

The walk will start in Haltwhistle Market Place and follow a route down to the river South Tyne. Do not be surprised if many interesting birds are spotted whilst still in the town, but the plan is also to visit a range of different habitats including woodland, farmland and moorland. The actual route will depend on the weather and the birds.

Please do not wear bright clothing; the birds do not like it!

Also note that this is NOT a photography walk, but please bring binoculars if you have any.

Distance: Approx 6.0 miles
Ascent/Descent: Approx 390 feet
Grade: 2, Moderate

UPDATED APRIL 11TH

The walk today starts and finishes at Wydon Farm, near Haltwhistle. Along the route we will see a castle that is reputedly haunted by a ‘Grey Man’, the ghost of a minstrel who was accused of being a spy. We will walk through pastures, along a former railway line and over a historic viaduct spanning the River South Tyne. Finally, we will return to Wydon Farm where our delicious and well-deserved tea awaits.