Whether you are after hills to climb, coast paths to tramp, historic trails to follow or wild open spaces, Northumberland has it all. And here at the Tanky, we will look after you after a long day out, with places to dry your clothes and boots, a garden to enjoy a well earned post-walk drink, a hearty menu to refuel you and of course, comfortable beds to rest on.
The Cheviots
On our doorstep! The hills offer a range of walk lengths and difficulties, with spectacular views and a feeling of peace. In the Spring you’ll hear the curlews and larks, see lapwings circling above you as you pass their nests, buzzards crying and hares running. In the Summer you’ll be walking through the beautiful purple heather with the swallows and swifts wheeling above you as you raise the insects for their dinner, and you can find the odd laugh (loch) to swim in too. Autumn commonly brings lovely weather, changing colours and the gaggles of migratory birds to mark the advent of winter.
The Coast
Northumberland’s coast is spectacular. There really is no other word. You’ll walk along cliffs, on beaches, over dunes and past castles. You’ll see dolphins and seals and the whole range of wading birds from curlews and oyster catchers, to sand pipers and dunlin. The air will be full of the scents of the sea, and you will feel like all your troubles have left you as you look out over the vast horizon.
The Pennine Way
One end of the Pennine Way is in Kirk Yetholm, not far from us in Wooler. This iconic trail stretches all the way down to the Peak District if you’re after a big trek, passing through the Cheviots, across Hadrian’s Wall and through the wild and dramatic North Pennines for the Northumberland stretch. Just pick your spot and enjoy!
Hadrian’s Wall
If you want to feel what it must have been like to be a Roman soldier sent up to the Northern reaches of the Roman Empire, try walking the Wall in a skirt! Wild, beautiful, dramatic and often windy, the Wall is an extraordinary piece of history and a must see. Plan your trip around a visit to The Sill to find out more about the landscape and history of the North East.
Other Highlights
If you want to look out over the Cheviots, head up to Simonside where you’ll get amazing views! For a mixture of leisurely and more strenuous walking with local art to find along the way, visit Kielder Water & forest. And if you’re looking for dramatic moorland vistas, don’t miss out on the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with its breath-taking combination of moors, farmland and lead-mining remains.
