Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Discover England’s last frontier, home to castles, never-ending seascapes and tales of border battles. Our guided walking holidays in Northumberland will introduce you to the hidden gems of this unspoilt county, including sweeping sandy beaches and the remote wild beauty of the Cheviot and Simonside Hills.
Highlights:
Nether Grange, Alnmouth, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 2RZ (Google Map)
4:00pm – You’re welcome to check into the country house hotel from 4pm onwards.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way onward.
Enjoy a full day’s walking with fellow guests and leave all the planning and navigation to us; it’s what we do best. Nobody knows the UK’s best places to walk like us. Our knowledgeable leaders make sure you’re never short of the inside story on local features, viewpoints and places of interest.
On our Guided Walking holidays, we believe that choice is key. Our walks descriptions will help you choose according to your interests and fitness. The walks are grouped together with care by local experts to give the best experience.
Walking Grades Explained:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong type of clothing!” goes the adage. Come prepared for all eventualities and you’ll walk in comfort as well as safety. Britain’s famous for its changeable weather, so here’s our advice on what to wear and bring.
Essentials
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You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival. (D, T)
Accommodation: Nether Grange
These walks are subject to the tide so may be walked in reverse.
Option 1 – Craster to Alnmouth
Distance: 7½ miles (12.5km)
Ascent: 450 feet (140m)
In Summary: Walk south along the coast from the quaint fishing village of Craster to Alnmouth.* Walk on the low cliffs and the beach, with fantastic sea views throughout.
Highlight: Explore the atmospheric harbour at Craster, and let your nose lead you to famous kipper smokehouse.
*due to a stretch of beach walking, this walk may be reversed to avoid doing so at/near high tide
Option 2 – Dunstanburgh Castle
Distance: 10½ miles (17km)
Ascent: 700 feet (220m)
In Summary: Walk from Embleton to the iconic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, then follow the path all the way back along the beautiful Northumberland Coast to Alnmouth.*
Highlight: Dunstanburgh Castle occupies a glorious cliff-top position. Look out for fulmars, razorbills and kittiwakes nesting nearby.
*due to a stretch of beach walking, this walk may be reversed to avoid doing so at/near high tide
Distance: 12½ miles (20km)
Ascent: 700 feet (220m)
In Summary: Starting further north at High Newton this grand coastal walk takes in the sweeping arc of Embleton Bay, Dunstanburgh Castle and Craster, before continuing to Alnmouth.*
Highlight: A glorious opportunity to see the best of the Northumberland Coast. With luck you may see seals, as well as the rich array of birdlife.
*due to a stretch of beach walking, this walk may be reversed to avoid doing so at/near high tide
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Wether Hill & Brough Law
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (330m)
In Summary: Discover two of the dominant Iron Age hillforts in the Breamish Valley, Wether Hill and Brough Law. In the Spring, oystercatcher and sandpiper nest on the river gravel and higher up on the hillsides, lapwing and curlew, true moorland birds are a common sight and sound. Scottish black-faced and the local Cheviot sheep graze the pastures as they have done for centuries.
Highlight: Great vantage points for views of the surrounding area.
Option 2 – On the Edge of Northumberland National Park
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 1230 feet (370m)
In Summary: The hillsides in the valley were terraced in the Bronze Age and the early occupants who lived here grew crops and raised livestock. Iron Age settlements and their circular hillforts can be found on both sides of the valley, reflecting a long history of occupation in this part of Northumberland.
Highlight: Discovering a prehistoric landscape.
Option 3 – Hill Forts & High Hills on the Egde of Northumberland National Park
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,500 feet (450m)
In Summary: Walk through the historic landscape of the Ingram Valley, with great views of the River Breamish and pre-historic forts. Head to the Old Fawdon Hill trig point with 360° views , including the eastern boundary of Northumberland National Park.
Highlight: Walking through an historic landscape.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – St Cuthbert’s Way
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)
In Summary: Follow the St Cuthbert’s Way, onto the northern edge of the Cheviot Hills. Pass Tom Tallon’s Crag, with fine views into Scotland, and then descend to the little market town of Wooler.
Highlight: An opportunity to get away from it all and appreciate these tranquil landscapes.
Option 2 – Carey Burn
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,450 feet (440m)
In Summary: A rambling walk to Wooler through the lower slopes of the Cheviots. Our walk takes in the peaceful valley of Carey Burn and the historic battle site of Humbleton Hill.
Highlight: Look out for the distinctive white-breasted Dippers feeding in the clear waters of Carey Burn.
Option 3 – Yeavering Bell
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)
In Summary: Head deeper into the Cheviots, including a fairly steep ascent onto Yeavering Bell. Our return route crosses the moor, then descends along the St Cuthbert’s Way to Wooler.
Highlight: The view from the top of Yeavering Bell is one of the finest in the whole of the Cheviots.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Spy Law, Riverside and Countryside
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 560 feet (180m)
In summary: After leaving Alnmouth, meander alongside the River Aln and gently ascend to Spy Law with views on all sides of the countryside. The walk continues moving seawards displaying the Northumberland coast in front of you before returning through colourful cereal fields overlooking the Aln estuary and the once port of Alnmouth towards to sea.
Highlight: A chance to appreciate the variety of scenery that Northumberland has to offer.
Option 2 – To High Buston Hamlet
Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 600 feet (180m)
In summary: Walk around the historic village of Alnmouth and then visit the picturesque village of Lesbury before meandering alongside the River Aln. The walk gives views of countryside and coast, and passes through the Hamlet of High Buston. Learn of the links of the Buston family to King John in 1209 and the traditional “dunking” of the local freemens’ sons. The route returns through undulating countryside culminating in a sight of Alnmouth with colourful houses overlooking the estuary and the sea.
Highlight: An appreciation of how the land and seascape framed local life through the centuries.
Option 3 – Coast, Railway and River
Distance: 10.5 miles (17km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: This walk gives the visitor a chance to see traditional villages and hamlets of Northumberland and learn about life in this area at various times in the past. The trail passes through green countryside with river, inland and coastal views. The Shilbottle miners’ route to the sea also forms part of this walk. The Hamlet of High Buston is visited along with the villages of Alnmouth, Lesbury and the route passes by the village of Shilbottle with substantial medieval and industrial records.
Highlight: Countryside walking steeped in history with inland and coastal views.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Beadnell to Bamburgh
Distance: 7 miles (11½km)
Total ascent: 300 feet (100m)
In Summary: Enjoy an iconic beach walk from Beadnell to Seahouses with time to look at the harbour then it’s on to Bamburgh and its castle.
Highlight: Look out for seabirds and seals flying and bobbing about amongst the waves on this excellent coastal walk.
Option 2 – High Newton to Bamburgh
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 400 feet (120m)
In Summary: Follow the beautiful coast from High Newton along the sands to Beadnell’s old harbour. Pass the busy port of Seahouses, with excellent views of the Farne Islands, before continuing on the beach to Bamburgh.
Highlight: The final leg along the sands to Bamburgh, with great views of the imposing castle that was once the seat of early Northumbrian Kings.
Option 3 – Embleton to Bamburgh
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Ascent: 450 feet (140m)
In Summary: A fantastic longer walk from Embleton to Bamburgh with great views of castles and islands on distant horizons. Wide sandy bays, nature and history combine on this a remarkable walk along the Northumberland Coast.
Highlight: Look out for seabirds and seals, and the rich array of other wildlife that makes its home in this glorious coastal habitat.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival. (D, T)
Accommodation: Nether Grange
Option 1 – Budle Bay and Lindisfarne
Distance: 6 ½ miles (10.5 km)
Ascent: 540 feet (165 m)
In Summary: Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Budle Bay. Bring your binoculars and see if you can spot some of the wildfowl and waders that spend their days here. The Bay is an important bird sanctuary and offers some beautiful sweeping views over to Lindisfarne. Our walk finishes in Bamburgh. We then hop on the coach to the tidal island of Lindisfarne, where we’ve plenty of time to explore its historic sites or nature reserve.
Highlight: Fabulous chance to stop a plentiful array of birdlife at Budle Bay
Option 2 – Above Budle Bay and around Lindisfarne
Distance: 8 miles (12.5 km)
Ascent: 540 feet (165 m)
In Summary: Discover the Northumbrian legend of the Laidley Worm as we walk inland to Spindlestone Heugh before joining the coast path from Budle Bay to Bamburgh. A short coach journey then takes us to the tidal island of Lindisfarne – Holy Island, where there’s plenty of time to explore.
Highlight: Lindisfarne itself!
Option 3 – The Pilgrims Crossing and Lindisfarne
Distance: 10 ½ miles (16.5 km)
Ascent: 540 feet (165 m)
In Summary: Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims of old and take off your boots and socks and join us in a barefoot crossing of the sands over to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Expect mud, plenty of seaweed stuck in your toes, a bit of splashing, and a whole lot of fun as we make our way across following this ancient pilgrim’s path.
Highlight: the opportunity to step back in time and follow an authentic pilgrimage route across the sands
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Wether Hill & Brough Law
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (330m)
In Summary: Discover two of the dominant Iron Age hillforts in the Breamish Valley, Wether Hill and Brough Law. In the Spring, oystercatcher and sandpiper nest on the river gravel and higher up on the hillsides, lapwing and curlew, true moorland birds are a common sight and sound. Scottish black-faced and the local Cheviot sheep graze the pastures as they have done for centuries.
Highlight: Great vantage points for views of the surrounding area.
Option 2 – On the Edge of Northumberland National Park
Distance: 7½ miles (12km)
Ascent: 1230 feet (370m)
In Summary: The hillsides in the valley were terraced in the Bronze Age and the early occupants who lived here grew crops and raised livestock. Iron Age settlements and their circular hillforts can be found on both sides of the valley, reflecting a long history of occupation in this part of Northumberland.
Highlight: Discovering a prehistoric landscape.
Option 3 – Hill Forts & High Hills on the Egde of Northumberland National Park
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,500 feet (450m)
In Summary: Walk through the historic landscape of the Ingram Valley, with great views of the River Breamish and pre-historic forts. Head to the Old Fawdon Hill trig point with 360° views , including the eastern boundary of Northumberland National Park.
Highlight: Walking through an historic landscape.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – St Cuthbert’s Way
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,050 feet (320m)
In Summary: Follow the St Cuthbert’s Way, onto the northern edge of the Cheviot Hills. Pass Tom Tallon’s Crag, with fine views into Scotland, and then descend to the little market town of Wooler.
Highlight: An opportunity to get away from it all and appreciate these tranquil landscapes.
Option 2 – Carey Burn
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Ascent: 1,450 feet (440m)
In Summary: A rambling walk to Wooler through the lower slopes of the Cheviots. Our walk takes in the peaceful valley of Carey Burn and the historic battle site of Humbleton Hill.
Highlight: Look out for the distinctive white-breasted Dippers feeding in the clear waters of Carey Burn.
Option 3 – Yeavering Bell
Distance: 9½ miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)
In Summary: Head deeper into the Cheviots, including a fairly steep ascent onto Yeavering Bell. Our return route crosses the moor, then descends along the St Cuthbert’s Way to Wooler.
Highlight: The view from the top of Yeavering Bell is one of the finest in the whole of the Cheviots.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Spy Law, Riverside and Countryside
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 560 feet (180m)
In summary: After leaving Alnmouth, meander alongside the River Aln and gently ascend to Spy Law with views on all sides of the countryside. The walk continues moving seawards displaying the Northumberland coast in front of you before returning through colourful cereal fields overlooking the Aln estuary and the once port of Alnmouth towards to sea.
Highlight: A chance to appreciate the variety of scenery that Northumberland has to offer.
Option 2 – To High Buston Hamlet
Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 600 feet (180m)
In summary: Walk around the historic village of Alnmouth and then visit the picturesque village of Lesbury before meandering alongside the River Aln. The walk gives views of countryside and coast, and passes through the Hamlet of High Buston. Learn of the links of the Buston family to King John in 1209 and the traditional “dunking” of the local freemens’ sons. The route returns through undulating countryside culminating in a sight of Alnmouth with colourful houses overlooking the estuary and the sea.
Highlight: An appreciation of how the land and seascape framed local life through the centuries.
Option 3 – Coast, Railway and River
Distance: 10.5 miles (17km)
Ascent: 750 feet (240m)
In summary: This walk gives the visitor a chance to see traditional villages and hamlets of Northumberland and learn about life in this area at various times in the past. The trail passes through green countryside with river, inland and coastal views. The Shilbottle miners’ route to the sea also forms part of this walk. The Hamlet of High Buston is visited along with the villages of Alnmouth, Lesbury and the route passes by the village of Shilbottle with substantial medieval and industrial records.
Highlight: Countryside walking steeped in history with inland and coastal views.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Beadnell to Bamburgh
Distance: 7 miles (11½km)
Total ascent: 300 feet (100m)
In Summary: Enjoy an iconic beach walk from Beadnell to Seahouses with time to look at the harbour then it’s on to Bamburgh and its castle.
Highlight: Look out for seabirds and seals flying and bobbing about amongst the waves on this excellent coastal walk.
Option 2 – High Newton to Bamburgh
Distance: 10 miles (16km)
Ascent: 400 feet (120m)
In Summary: Follow the beautiful coast from High Newton along the sands to Beadnell’s old harbour. Pass the busy port of Seahouses, with excellent views of the Farne Islands, before continuing on the beach to Bamburgh.
Highlight: The final leg along the sands to Bamburgh, with great views of the imposing castle that was once the seat of early Northumbrian Kings.
Option 3 – Embleton to Bamburgh
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Ascent: 450 feet (140m)
In Summary: A fantastic longer walk from Embleton to Bamburgh with great views of castles and islands on distant horizons. Wide sandy bays, nature and history combine on this a remarkable walk along the Northumberland Coast.
Highlight: Look out for seabirds and seals, and the rich array of other wildlife that makes its home in this glorious coastal habitat.
Accommodation: Nether Grange (B, L, D)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
| Version 1 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: March 3, 31 | $1,890 | $2,170 |
| 2023: April 7, 21 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
| 2023: May 5, 19, 26 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: June 2, 9, 30 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: July 7, 14 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: August 11 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: September 1, 15, 22 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: October 13 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
| 2023: November 10, 17 | $1,890 | $2,170 |
| Version 2 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: June 23 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: July 21 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: August 4, 18 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
Pricing
Pricing is per person (pp) based on single/twin/double occupancy.
Supplement applied for single in a double room.
Rates are in $ CAD. Rates include room upgrade (better) and membership fees.
Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Ask us for the best available pricing for your dates & choice of airline. We can assist in your travel to/from the Country House.
This tour is also available in 3 and 4 night duration.
This holiday includes active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet.
While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative route to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons, potentially at short notice. Sometimes things happen beyond our control – the weather, traffic jams or changes at the places we visit. If we need to adjust your holiday programme, for whatever reason, your leader will help smooth the way.
Travel Details:
Address is: Nether Grange, Alnmouth, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 2RZ
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is Alnmouth, on the main line between Newcastle and Edinburgh.
By Taxi:
The 1½-mile journey from Alnmouth railway station takes approximately 5 minutes. You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended taxi company, Knight’s Taxis. As a guide price, it cost £6 per 4-seat taxi in 2019. 8-seat taxis are also available at a higher rate. Please pre-book your taxi at least 7 days in advance by contacting:
Knight’s Taxis*
Tel: +44 (0) 7760 751667
Email: info@knightstaxi.com
The return taxi journey can be arranged on your behalf by the Nether Grange Manager.
*Knight’s Taxis is not owned or managed by us.
By Car:
Take the A1 to Alnwick. Exit on the A1068 heading towards Alnwick. At the roundabout turn right (not well signed) and follow the A1068 towards Alnmouth. After 2¾ miles go straight ahead at the first roundabout then left at the second roundabout onto the B1338. Cross a bridge as you approach Alnmouth, turning right at the next roundabout, then almost immediatley left into The Wynd. Follow the one way system into Marine Road, passing the golf clubhouse on the left, and round into Northumberland Street. After 100yds turn right into the narrow Pease’s Lane. Nether Grange is on the left. Please note that Nether Grange does not have a car park, there is very limited on-street parking available on a first come basis. You can park in available slots on Marine Road, Pease’s Lane and elsewhere in town. There is a pay and display car park at the end of Marine Road.
Sitting pretty in the centre of the quiet harbour village of Alnmouth, Nether Grange stands in an area rich in natural beauty and historic gravitas. There are moving views of the dramatic North Sea coastline from the house too. This one-time 18th century granary was first converted into a large family home for the High Sheriff of Northumberland in the 19th century and then reimagined as a characterful hikers’ hotel. Many of the 36 bedrooms look out across the sea, while a large lounge, conservatory and adjoining bar are there to entertain you. Easily accessible from the house are the coast path while inland lies the Northumberland National Park. North are the Farne Islands and their spectacular seabird colonies and close by is Lindisfarne and its romantic castle accessible at low-tide via an ancient pilgrim’s path. Nearby too is the medieval market town of Alnwick and its eponymous castle, as well as the atmospheric ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, perched on a grassy peninsula to the south of Embbelton Bay. Best of all though is Bamburgh Castle, built to resemble a magnificent medieval fortress but actually an impressive Victorian folly.
Address: Nether Grange, Alnmouth, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 2RZ
Room Amenities: Tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries, Wi-Fi
Stay in one of the house’s smartly presented rooms up an impressive sweeping staircase. Full of warm tones or coastal colours and comfy touches they’re a great base for exploring the area. With 36 bedrooms, Nether Grange has plenty of space and there’s a range of ‘Classic’ and ‘Premium’ Rooms to choose from.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Hotel Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, boot room and drying room, extensive garden, multi-purpose activity room, lounges, library and board games to borrow
After a day walking on the coast, come back to the house and its specially tailored walkers’ facilities. Relax by sitting in the elevated terrace gardens with a cooling drink and a cracking sea view or challenge a fellow guest to a game of croquet or giant chess, backed by views of the beach and sea beyond. The spick and span sky-blue painted bar with its mismatched blue and stripy seats boasts all the requisite cosiness and British bonhomie, plus a selection of local beers and your favourite tipple. Settle in.
