- Feel Good
- 30th Oct 2024
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The new Reiver Trails to explore Kielder, Hadrian’s Wall and beyond
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Autumn has arrived, making it the perfect time to escape to the countryside and experience Northumberland’s stunning seasonal landscapes.
While the new Reiver Trails are set to be fully completed by 2025, some are already open and ready to explore. With nine different multi-user trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re up for a scenic bike ride or just a peaceful stroll.
The best part? These trails link the iconic Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland National Park with the breathtaking Kielder Water and Forest Park, giving you the chance to soak in some of the most beautiful spots in the area.
The Reiver Trails are an exciting new initiative designed to highlight some of the hidden gems in Northumberland’s countryside. These trails weave through the beautiful Kielder Forest, offering scenic routes that take you through lush woodlands and charming villages, all with breathtaking panoramic views.
Whether you’re into walking, cycling or horse riding, there’s a trail to suit your style. In the future, some of the routes will be made accessible for wheelchairs, buggies and balance bikes, so everyone can join in the adventure.
You can start planning your countryside escape now with the new website, which has everything you need – from downloadable maps to tips on where to find the best scones and cake along the way.
While seven of the nine trails are on the longer side (a challenge for most to tackle in one go!), shorter routes connected to the main trails will be added over winter, making it easier to explore at your own pace.
There will also be designated “Gateways” along the Reiver Trails, providing parking, route information, free cycle maintenance, e-charging, and storage facilities. Some locations will even offer facilities for horse riders.
Though work is still ongoing to mark the routes and complete the website, many enthusiasts are already enjoying some of the trails. The full project is expected to wrap up by Easter 2025.
So, whether you’re lacing up your boots, hopping on a horse or gearing up your bike, the Reiver Trails are a fantastic way to experience Northumberland and the National Park’s seasonal beauty.
Here’s some of our favourite Reiver Trails
FOR A LEISURELY COUNTRYSIDE ADVENTURE…
Falstone Trail
Length: 24.30 km (15.10 miles)
Duration: walking – 4 hours, cycling – 2 hours and horse riding – 3 hours
The Falstone Trail is a scenic loop starting and finishing in Bellingham, taking you through the stunning North Tyne valley. Using quiet peaceful roads and forest tracks, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Kielder Water as you cross the dam and explore both sides of the tranquil North Tyne.
Bull Crag Trail
Length: 10.14 km (6.30 miles)
Duration: walking – 1 hour 50 minutes, cycling – 30 minutes and horse riding – 1 hour
The Bull Crag Trail is a family-friendly circular route starting and ending at Kielder Waterside. Just over six miles long, it’s perfect for beginners to the Reiver Trails, following the shoreline of a Kielder peninsula with views of the reservoir throughout.
FOR A RELAXING BUT HARDER ROUTE…
Stonehaugh Trail
Length: 18.02 km (11.20 miles)
Duration: walking – 4 hours, cycling – 1 hour 15 minutes and horse riding – 2 hours
The Stonehaugh Trail is a scenic circular route around Wark Forest, starting and ending at Stonehaugh campsite. Based near the remote village of Stonehaugh, on the southern edge of Kielder Forest, this beautiful trail offers a fantastic way to explore the Reiver Trails.
Wark Forest Trail
Length: 39.27 km (24.40 miles)
Duration: walking – 6 hours, cycling – 3 hours and horse riding – 4 hours
The Wark Forest Trail is an adventurous loop connecting Stonehaugh with The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre. It takes you beyond Hadrian’s Wall, passing Steel Rigg, through quiet roads and deep into the forest at Scotch Coulthard. The trail loops back via a hidden valley and the National Cycle Route, offering a scenic day out.
IF YOU’RE UP FOR A CHALLENGE…
Crossborder Trail
Length: 46.68 km (29.01 miles)
Duration: walking – 6 hours, cycling – 2 hours 50 minutes and horse riding – 4 hours
The Crossborder Trail is a must for adventurers, taking you through the heart of Reiver Country. This original trail links Kielder Forest to Newcastleton Forest, crossing from England into Scotland at the historic monument Bloodybush Toll. It’s a fantastic day out, packed with history and stunning landscapes.
Image credit: Trail Bikes
Cross Crag Trail
Length: 47.48 km (29.50 miles)
Duration: walking – 11 hours 50 minutes, cycling – 4 hours and horse riding – 6 hours
The Cross Crag Trail is a circular route through the heart of Kielder Forest, connecting Stonehaugh and Kielder Waterside. Along the way, you can visit the exact centre of the forest and learn about Lord Robinson, the visionary behind Kielder Forest, whose memorial is located just off the trail.
Image credit: All Trails
The Reiver Trails project is made possible thanks to funding from Northumberland County Council and Forestry England. It’s being delivered by the Kielder Water and Forest Park Development Trust, with support from partners like Northumberland National Park Authority and other organisations and individuals working together to bring it to life.
BROWSE THE FULL RANGE OF REIVER TRAILS
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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