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- 7th Mar 2025
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Your ultimate Kielder guide: stargazing stays, scenic forest walks and hidden gems
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Kielder is a true outdoor paradise, home to England’s largest forest and Northern Europe’s biggest man-made lake.
Whether you’re a cyclist, hiker or someone who loves the great outdoors, there’s plenty to explore at Kielder Water and Forest Park.
But it’s not just about adventure – there’s plenty of peace and quiet too. From scenic forest walks, stunning waterside viewpoints or just being at one with nature, Kielder Water and Forest Park has something for everyone.
Wildlife, dark skies and award-winning art and architecture make Kielder a truly unique place. The sky here is especially spectacular offering some of the best stargazing in the country. It’s no wonder Kielder is part of an internationally acclaimed Dark Sky Park, complete with its own observatory.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Kielder is the perfect spot to connect with nature, offering something special all year round.
THINGS TO DO IN KIELDER
See the Kielder ospreys
Kielder is the perfect place to see ospreys, especially after the exciting 2021 season, which saw seven breeding pairs. Visit between March and September to spot these incredible birds hunting over the water. Check out the new viewing cabin at Tower Knowe or hop on the Osprey Watching Cruise at Kielder Waterside run by Wild Intrigue.
Stargaze at Kielder Observatory
Perched above Kielder village, Kielder Observatory offers breathtaking stargazing in Europe’s second-largest Dark Sky Park. It’s an experience that’s out of this world for all ages, with events covering everything from family fun to deep dives into space phenomena like the aurora and dark matter. Pre-booking is essential, and make sure to take in all the stunning views on the way up.
HLN TOP TIP: Here’s our beginner’s guide to stargazing in Northumberland.
Kielder Castle
Kielder Castle, once a hunting lodge for the Duke of Northumberland, overlooks Kielder Burn and the North Tyne River. Now, it’s a family hub with walking, cycling and forest trails. Enjoy the Gruffalo Trail, mountain biking, local food, art and nearby attractions like the Salmon Centre and Kielder Campsite.
Kielder Waterside
Kielder Waterside offers 250 square miles of stunning Northumberland countryside, perfect for all kinds of adventures. Whether it’s relaxing by the reservoir, enjoying water sports or trying activities like archery and crazy carts, there’s something for everyone. There’s even activities for little ones, it’s the perfect family getaway.
Kielder Forest
Kielder Forest offers endless opportunities for adventure. Explore the Minotaur Maze, stargaze or walk the 26-mile Lakeside Way. It’s also home to mountain biking trails, wildlife and live osprey cams. Plus, it’s the UK’s biggest red squirrel reserve.
Calvert Kielder
At Calvert Kielder, adventure awaits for all ages and abilities with activities like the Kielder ZipCoaster (Europe’s 1st AvatarOne™ rollercoaster zip wire), high ropes course, and the King Swing for adrenaline junkies. For a more laid-back experience, enjoy archery, axe throwing, canoeing and sailing on Kielder Water.
Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre
When in Kielder, don’t miss the Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre at Leaplish Waterside Park. It’s home to one of the largest collections of owls, eagles, hawks, falcons and vultures in the North of England. Enjoy close-up views, shows and learn all about these incredible birds.
HIDDEN GEMS TO DISCOVER
Kielder’s landscape is full of unique art and architecture, all inspired by its rich history and stunning natural surroundings. Explore these pieces while walking or cycling, where you’ll even discover some by chance. The art is spread across the lake, the forest, the hills and Northumberland National Park, with most being easily accessible.
Some of our favourite pieces include Bakethin Hide, a wildlife-watching spot, the striking Kielder Belvedere shelter, James Turrell’s Kielder Skyspace and gorgeous Timelapse viewpoint.
On opposite shores of Kielder Water, you’ll find two small buildings: Freya’s Cabin and Robin’s Hut. Designed by Studio Weave, these quirky structures were built to reflect the unique weather and light conditions of the area. Freya’s Cabin, with its golden wood, feels like part of the forest, while Robin’s Hut faces the sun, making the landscape more mysterious.
PLACES TO STAY IN KIELDER: LODGES, COTTAGES AND STAYS
For more inspiration to explore the region, check out Visit Northumberland’s website.
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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