The best walks and hikes around Greystead
4.4
(351)
2,815
hikers
73
hikes
Hikes around Greystead explore the landscapes of Northumberland National Park and the area surrounding Kielder Water. The region is characterized by large man-made lakes, working forests, and river valleys like the North Tyne. The network of trails offers a mix of gentle riverside paths and more moderate routes through the forest, with many options for walks near Greystead and Kielder Water.
Best hiking trails around Greystead
- The most popular hiking route is Kielder Dam loop from Falstone — Northumberland National…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
10.7km
02:54
160m
160m
Hike the moderate 6.6-mile Lakeside Way and Wave Chamber Loop around Kielder Water, featuring unique art and scenic views in Northumberland
1.0
(1)
7
hikers
12.4km
03:22
190m
190m
Hike the Falstone and Kielder Dam Loop, a moderate 7.7-mile trail through Northumberland National Park with reservoir views.
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5.0
(1)
19
hikers
3.63km
00:56
20m
20m
Enjoy an easy 2.3-mile hike on the Falstone Circular Walk in Northumberland National Park, featuring river views and an old railway line.
4.6
(5)
53
hikers
13.9km
03:42
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
25
hikers
21.5km
05:45
260m
260m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
park here or round the corner for access to the waterfall trail
1
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At several points along this trail, hikers have hammered coins into fallen tree trunks. Arm yourself with pliers, and you'll be able to remove the coins and become rich.
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St. Cuthbert’s Church in Bellingham is an impressive 13th-century church building with a rare stone barrel vault, built to withstand repeated arson attacks by Border Reivers. The church exudes history, with old stained glass windows, cannonballs in the roof, monuments, and a mysterious gravestone called the Lang Pack, linked to a local legend about a failed burglary. Next to the church is St. Cuthbert’s Well, a spring said to have healing properties—a pleasant place to refill your water bottle or simply relax.
5
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Bellingham (Northumberland) This charming village on the River North Tyne is a first stop on the Reivers through the rugged north of England. As the gateway to Northumberland National Park and the iconic Pennine Way, Bellingham offers both natural beauty and cultural heritage, such as St. Cuthbert's Church and the Heritage Centre.
5
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Housed in the old village schoolhouse, Falstone Tearooms offers a warm and welcoming stopover for cyclists, walkers, and other travelers in the heart of Northumberland National Park. You'll find home-cooked meals such as breakfast, soup, sandwiches, and cakes, plus a small shop with local crafts and treats. The tearoom is dog-, boat-, and bike-friendly, has free Wi-Fi, and private parking. Located close to Kielder Water and the Reivers Route, it's the perfect spot to unwind with a cappuccino and a good story.
10
0
Bellingham Bridge is a distinctive stone arch bridge over the River North Tyne, believed to have been built in the 19th century and a Grade II listed structure since 1985. Part of the Reivers Route, it provides a tranquil passage with beautiful views of the flowing water and the surrounding countryside.
11
0
Lovely walk across the top of the dam and back again, easy walking
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly walking routes near Greystead?
Yes, the area offers several options suitable for families. For an easy and relatively flat walk, consider the Falstone loop. It's a short 3.6 km route that's great for a wide range of fitness levels.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Greystead?
Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep local guidance in mind. The Sidwood Trail is a quiet, secluded forest walk where dogs can often be off-leash away from farmland. Always check for signage regarding livestock and ground-nesting birds, especially within Northumberland National Park.
What's a good circular walk for views of Kielder Water?
For impressive views across the reservoir, the Kielder Dam loop from Falstone is an excellent choice. This moderate circular route takes you along the shoreline and over the dam itself, offering some of the best perspectives of the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe.
Where can I find a hike that leads to a waterfall?
The hike to Hareshaw Linn waterfall is a regional highlight. You can reach it via the Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Trail from Greenhaugh. This route takes you through ancient woodland before revealing the beautiful waterfall at the end of a gorge.
Are there any long-distance trails passing through the Greystead area?
Yes, the Pennine Way, one of the UK's most famous and challenging National Trails, passes near Greystead. You can hike sections of this historic route for a more demanding day out, experiencing the wild and remote landscapes of the Northumberland National Park.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The region is a haven for wildlife. Around Kielder Water & Forest Park, keep an eye out for red squirrels and ospreys. The wider area is also home to water voles, badgers, and a variety of birdlife. The quiet forest trails offer the best chances for sightings.
Is this a good area for stargazing?
Absolutely. Greystead is located within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, which has minimal light pollution and offers exceptional conditions for stargazing. On a clear night, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the stars. For dedicated events, the Kielder Observatory is nearby.
What are some good forest trails around Kielder?
Kielder Forest Park has an extensive network of trails. For a route that combines forest scenery with art and reservoir views, try the Kielder Water & Wave Chamber loop. It leads you through parts of the largest working forest in England to a unique art installation on the shoreline.
Where can I park for hikes starting near Greystead?
Parking availability varies by trail. For walks around Kielder Water, there are several designated pay-and-display car parks, such as those near Falstone. For more remote trails like the Sidwood Trail, you may find small, informal parking areas. It's always best to arrive early, especially on weekends.
Are there any routes that explore the area's history?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can plan walks that take in sections of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Boer War Memorial, Bellingham – Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Trail loop also passes by a local historical landmark.
How many hiking trails are available around Greystead?
There are over 70 curated hiking routes to explore around Greystead on komoot. These range from easy, short walks suitable for all abilities to more challenging and difficult trails for experienced hikers, covering the diverse landscapes of the national park and Kielder Forest.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The trails around Greystead are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the forests, the stunning views across Kielder Water, and the well-maintained paths through the unfettered landscape.
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