We’ve been taking the dogs to Northumberland for over 20 years.
Over the past two decades, we’ve discovered some of the best local dog walking routes. From the beaches along the Northumberland coastal path right up to the Northumberland countryside and the National Park, there’s going to be something here for everyone. We usually plan our wanders based on the weather forecast.
Below, we’ve listed 12 of the best dog-friendly walks in Northumberland to help you get started with your plan.
This coastal path takes you from Craster village to the impressive ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. It’s a flat walk, ideal for all ages and dogs who love running through open grassy areas. There is only one car park in Craster. You will see it signposted as you enter the village. We paid £2 to park all day.
Finding Thrunton Woods was actually trickier than the walk itself. Our old sat-nav took us down a narrow lane to a farm, so it’s better to follow the Forestry England signs from the A697.
When we arrived, the gravel car park was nearly empty. The only other couple there chose the longer path to the right, while we followed the green waymarkers for the shorter Crag Top Walk. We didn’t see anyone else, or any other dogs, during the whole 45-minute loop.
The wide forest tracks change from dark stone to a reddish surface, winding through tall trees, bracken, and some open spots with views of the Cheviot Hills. Our two Golden Retrievers also found a shallow stream in the woods for a quick paddle.
Once the path was clear, we let them off their leads. They stayed in sight and came back when called. Since the forest is shared with walkers, mountain bikers, and horse riders, it’s best to keep dogs close and under control.
Wait til you see the scenery here, which features a gentle, relaxing beach walk that is perfect for dogs that love to run off-lead. Starting in Low Newton, you follow the coastline and head to Embleton Bay. It’s an easy walk with beautiful sea views and a car park at Low Newton.
Explore Northumberland With Your Dog
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The Cheviot Hills offer steep climbs and varied terrain for those looking for more of a challenge. This route is perfect for energetic dogs that love exploring open areas. The effort is worth it, as the summit offers breathtaking views. Numerous trails will get you there.
Our preferred dog walk in this area is the gorgeous Breamish Valley, which includes a walk to the waterfall of Linhope Spout. We use the postcode NE66 4LZ, which will bring you along streams and imposing hills, and you’ll see cars parked along the roadside. We go as far as the no-entry sign, park up, and then follow the signs from the Linhope Spout. It is easy to follow the signs, but the walk isn’t flat. When you get to the waterfall, you will have to climb steeply. It’s so worth it! Our dogs swim there, and kids enjoy jumping off the falls.
Top tip: take bug spray for the annoying midges!
Kielder Forest is a great spot for dog walks, combining lakeside paths and forest trails. Dogs can enjoy the varied terrain, and the walk offers beautiful scenery. Parking is available at the visitor centre; you can expect to pay £5 for an all-day ticket. There are also dog-friendly cafes nearby. With this great list of properties, you can also holiday with your dog at Kielder Water.
Explore the ancient woodland. This walk is perfect for nature-loving dogs and their owners. The path follows the river and offers excellent views, with a few steeper sections to add variety. Parking is available at Allen Banks: £4 all-day ticket or £2 for four hours. Alternatively, it is free if you have a National Trust membership. Just pop your details or scan your card into the machine.
This easy coastal walk starts at Bamburgh Castle, instantly recognisable as soon as you arrive, and follows the coastline to Seahouses. Read our complete guide to the Bamburgh to Seahouses walk with dogs here.
It’s a flat route with fantastic views of the castle and the sea, perfect for dogs that love to run along the beach and explore the grassy dunes without any seasonal restrictions. The small village of both Bamburgh and Seahouses offers dog-friendly cafes, pubs, and ice cream parlours at both ends of the walk, so you’ll have a good chance of wanting refreshments after this walk. This place certainly has much to offer for a perfect dog-friendly holiday. Because you can be adventurous and take in so much, for example, Budle Bay is also within walking distance of Bamburgh, and if you go up to Bamburgh Castle which allows dogs, you can get views of Holy Island.
Visit Druridge Bay, it is ideal for families and especially dogs. It offers a 7-mile stretch of sandy beach from Cresswell to Amble. Druridge Bay Country Park is a mix of woodland with bridle paths and a stunning lake approximately 1.5 miles around. We love the well-equipped play park for the kids; there is often an ice cream van here and there is a visitor centre with toilets and a cafe. Car parking is free for the first hour, and for 2 hours it is £2.50. Over 2 hours, it’s £4.50. You can spend a long day here, so pack food for a picnic by the lake or head to the beach, explore both, it’s worth it!
Breamish Valley is one of the most picturesque landscapes in England. It is an excellent place for dog walkers of all ages and families. Rolling hills, gentle rivers, and streams make it the perfect spot for picnics. Our dogs love playing in the water, and the kids have a paddle. We have enjoyed many disposable BBQ picnics here due to the expansive area, and you can always find a secluded spot to relax. Parking can be found at Ingram Bridge; alternatively, you can park at Bulby’s Wood.
My top tip for the best dog walkout is to start at the valley, where you can enjoy time by the streams. Then, drive your car as far as possible to Alnhamoor track. You will come to a no-entry sign park on the roadside to the left and follow the signs for Linhope Spout waterfall. It is inside Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and is not to be missed. Follow the signs to the 60-foot falls and plunge pools. Below is where you can enjoy a swim. It is rather a climb to reach the falls, but grab your camera as once you’re there, it’s worth the effort! On the way to the fall, keep an eye out for wildlife. If you are lucky, you could spot red squirrels!
This walk takes you through beautiful woodland, leading to the impressive Hareshaw Linn waterfall, which is 30 feet tall and remarkably impressive, especially after rainfall. It’s an excellent option for dogs that love exploring wooded paths, and there’s limited car parking, around 10 spaces, in the village of Bellingham.
This route follows a dramatic section of Hadrian’s Wall and passes through the famous Sycamore Gap. For over 200 years, a lone sycamore tree stood here and became one of the most photographed spots in Northumberland, featuring in films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
In 2023, the tree was sadly felled, but the natural dip in the Whin Sill landscape and the remains of the stump still make it an evocative place to pause. The walk offers sweeping countryside views, historic stonework, and plenty of wide-open space for dogs to explore. Parking is available at Steel Rigg.
When taking your dog on these walks, always check for any lead requirements, particularly in areas with livestock. For example, around Dunstanburgh Castle, there are cattle and sheep grazing. Many of Northumberland’s best beaches allow dogs, but it’s essential to check for seasonal restrictions. Don’t forget essentials like water for hot days for you and your dog; always clean up after them to keep these beautiful areas dog-friendly.
