The Best Hidden Walks in the North East
Thursday 25th August, 2022 by hs-admin
Do you want to unwind, reduce your stress, and contemplate? If that sounds right up your ally, then walking is for you. Walking has been proved to even have a great impact on mental health and happiness.
Many people like to take long walks while listening to music, a podcast, or nothing at all. Whatever your style of walking, you can’t help but agree that it’s a wonderful way to take in your surroundings.
The North East is the perfect place to start your walking journey with luxurious locks and breathtaking beaches. Here at Host and Stay we have composed a list of our favourite hidden walking spots, making your walk feel that little bit more adventurous.
Embleton Bay, Northumberland – Gentle Beach Walk
This walk is a gentle paced beach walk making it perfect for the whole family on a sunny day. This is no ordinary beach however, known for its stunning views, you will experience one of Britain’s most picturesque beaches.
If strolling past the crumbling remains of Dunstanburgh Castle, and past the timeless beauty of Beadnell Harbour sounds like your idea of walking heaven then don’t miss Embleton Bay.
You may even see a Viking boat or two bobbing about on the water.
The stroll circles Embleton Bay and begins in Low Newton-by-the-Sea’s parking lot. Spend some time admiring the historic scenery of the Dunstanburgh Castle ruins or the nearby Newton Pool nature reserve. There are also two hidden hides that are ideal for observing coastal birds like the black-tailed godwits and so much more.
We aren’t finished though, once you have tired yourself out from the walk, reward yourself with a beer at a bar with a view of Beadnell Harbour.
Wanting to make your life a beach? Check out our amazing holiday lets close to the Bay in Alnwick here.
High and Low Force waterfalls, Upper Teesdale – Wonderful Waterfalls
Fancy taking a dip in endless waterfalls? Then High Force and Low Force is the place you need to be this summer. This is a well known spot for all the locals to visit during the summer months, with jaw dropping views from the top and whimsical waterfalls, this walk is one not to be missed.
The thunderous High Force, which is England’s tallest waterfall, is reached after a leisurely six and a half-mile hike in Upper Teesdale that gently follows the picturesque River Tees. You’ll pass by unique birdlife, old juniper woodland, and fascinating geology along the journey.
The Pennine Way National Trail is reached after passing over Wynch Bridge and through a kissing gate on the trek that begins at the Bowlees Visitor Center. When you get to Low Force, you’ll know you’ve reached the River Tees because a huge sculpture of a sheep marks the spot!
Going along the path and turning away from the river at Holwick Head Footbridge, you will ascend steep stairs through juniper woodland until you reach the spellbinding High Force waterfall. It pours over the 295 million-year-old Whin Sill, which is a hard rock, and then plummets 21 metres to a plunge pool below. The locals do take a dip in the pool below so be sure to pack your swimming costume.
Ready to take the plunge? Take a look at our accommodation options close to Teesdale now.
Hareshaw Linn, Northumberland – Scientific Discoveries
If you have just started your walking journey then this next option is a great one. The three-mile Hareshaw Linn track meanders through a wooded valley in the middle of Northumberland National Park to a magnificent waterfall. It has also been named a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the rare lichens and ferns that can be found there. This walk is brief but breathtaking.
As you may expect, there are a few steep inclines, and the ground can occasionally become wet, so make sure to wear good grippy shoes. The midway point is marked by a curved stone bench where you can stop for a break and search for the red squirrels who call “The Linn” home, along with great spotted woodpeckers, wood warblers, spotted flycatchers, badgers, and Daubenton’s bats.
Want to try out this scientific short walk? Have a look at our holiday homes today.
Blue Lagoon, Hexham – Oasis in a Quarry?
Now we know what you are thinking, a walk around an abandoned quarry can’t be fun, however, it has been transformed over the years into a stunning natural area near Hexham.
This hidden jewel in the North East countryside is home to emerald green waters below and stunning surrounding cliffs. The area has long drawn swimmers, sunbathers, and thrill seekers, according to the locals.
Over the recent years, there has been an increase in tourists to the area known as the “lagoon,” many of whom come solely to take the ideal photo of the water. This place is not just a great photo opportunity but also a freshening short walk which we just know you will love.
Fancy going down to the Quarry? We have lots of amazing places to stay during your trip to Hexham,
After a long day of walking, you will need somewhere to relax and soak your feet. Check out all our amazing holiday homes here that blissfully compliment yourself walking vacations needs.
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