Northumberland National Park is one of the quietest and most peaceful landscapes in England, which makes it an incredible destination for dog owners looking for space, fresh air and plenty of room to roam. With sweeping hills, ancient Roman landmarks and miles of heather moorland, it is a perfect place to explore with your four legged companion.
This guide brings together some of the best dog friendly walks in Northumberland National Park. Each route has been selected because it offers interesting scenery, accessible terrain and dog friendly features that make the experience enjoyable for both you and your dog. From easy riverside meanders to longer hill walks, there is something here for every ability level.
1. Simonside Ridge
The Simonside Hills offer one of the most iconic views in the entire national park. The circular ridge walk takes you through forest tracks before climbing to a dramatic ridgeline with sweeping views over Rothbury and the Coquet Valley. Dogs will enjoy the varied terrain, the cool forest sections and the long, open ridge where they can explore safely as long as livestock is not present.
The rocky stretches provide plenty of interest without being too technical, and the route feels wild without being overly demanding. On clear days you can even see all the way to the Cheviots. It is a fantastic choice for active dogs that enjoy a good workout.
Distance: 5.5 miles / 8.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Simonside Forestry Car Park)
2. Hadrian’s Wall to Sycamore Gap
This famous stretch of Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most photographed spots in the UK, and the walk to Sycamore Gap is a brilliant option with dogs. The trail combines rolling hills, stone steps and wide open vistas, offering plenty of stimulation for adventurous pups. Sadly, the famous tree at the Sycamore Gap was illegally felled 2023, although there is new sprouts from the trunk that offer the opportunity to see a new tree grow in its place.
Dogs will love exploring the grassy slopes and following the twists of the wall, although owners should be mindful that sheep often graze in surrounding fields. The scenery is stunning, the path is well marked and the sense of historical significance adds to the experience.
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Steel Rigg Car Park)
3. College Valley and Hethpool Linn
College Valley – Photo Credit: Andrew Curtis
College Valley is one of the most tranquil and unspoilt places in Northumberland. The walk to Hethpool Linn follows quiet lanes and gentle paths through a hidden valley, eventually reaching a small but beautiful waterfall tucked between trees.
This is an ideal choice for dogs that prefer calm, peaceful surroundings without too many other walkers. The terrain is easy going and the valley floor is mostly open, which means your dog can enjoy plenty of relaxed exploration.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes (Hethpool Car Park)
4. The Cheviot via the Harthope Valley
For more experienced walkers, tackling The Cheviot from the Harthope Valley offers a challenging but rewarding day out. The climb takes you across rugged paths, peat bog sections and eventually up to the summit plateau, which is the highest point in Northumberland.
Dogs will enjoy the sense of adventure and the mix of terrain, but this walk is best saved for well conditioned dogs with good recall. The views across the Cheviots are incredible and the sense of remoteness is hard to beat.
Distance: 9 miles / 14.5 km
Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Langleeford)
5. Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Walk
This woodland walk near Bellingham is perfect for families and dogs that enjoy water. The trail winds through ancient forest filled with moss covered rocks, small bridges and riverside sections, eventually leading to the striking Hareshaw Linn waterfall.
The route is well sheltered and has plenty of interesting scents and sights to keep dogs stimulated. The path can be muddy after rain, but that tends to make it even more enjoyable for dogs that like to splash about.
Distance: 3 miles / 4.8 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Bellingham)
6. Linhope Spout
Linhope Spout is one of Northumberland’s most impressive natural features, a tall waterfall reached by a scenic valley walk. The route starts gently before narrowing alongside the burn, creating a peaceful and picturesque journey that dogs tend to love.
The final viewpoint offers plenty of space to sit and enjoy the surroundings, and the flowing water is usually a hit with water loving dogs. It is a straightforward walk with enjoyable variety throughout.
Distance: 2.5 miles / 4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Linhope)
7. Humbleton Hill
Humbleton Hill is a shorter but rewarding hill walk that is perfect when you want great views without committing to a long hike. The path climbs gradually to an Iron Age hillfort, and the entire route feels open, airy and very dog friendly.
Dogs will enjoy the open ground and gentle gradients, and owners will appreciate the panoramic views over Wooler and the Cheviots. It is a great introduction to hill walking for younger or less experienced dogs.
Distance: 2 miles / 3.2 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes (Wooler Common)
8. River Coquet Walk at Alwinton
This peaceful riverside walk begins in the village of Alwinton and follows the River Coquet upstream through beautiful countryside. The open meadows, gentle riverbanks and steady paths make it a relaxing outing for both dogs and owners.
Dogs can enjoy paddling in the shallows, exploring the grassy banks and taking in the scents of the surrounding farmland. It is a great low effort option if you want something calm and scenic.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes (Alwinton)
9. Windy Gyle
Windy Gyle is a brilliant high level route that follows part of the Pennine Way. The walk features long stretches of open ridgeline walking with far reaching views across the border hills.
Dogs will enjoy the freedom of the broad grassy paths, though it can get windy at the summit. The sense of scale and the wide open terrain make this a memorable adventure for energetic dogs.
Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km
Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes (Barrowburn)
Before You Go
- Livestock is common across Northumberland, especially during lambing season, so always check lead signs before letting your dog roam.
- Weather can change rapidly on higher routes like The Cheviot, so be prepared with layers, water and sturdy footwear.
- Make sure you pack the essentials for your dog as well as yourself.
- Many car parks are small or privately managed, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.
- If you enjoy this guide you might also like our dog friendly walk posts for the Lake District, Peak District, Snowdonia and the New Forest.
Map of the Routes
Explore these dog friendly walks and hiking routes using our handy map below, simply click the pins to get more information on each walk and directions to the nearest car park.
A high level Pennine Way route with long grassy ridges and big views across the border hills. Best for energetic dogs that enjoy long distances.
Distance (Miles): 7.5
Distance (KM): 12
Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A peaceful riverside route with access to open meadows, gentle riverbanks and quiet countryside. Ideal for relaxed off lead exploring.
Distance (Miles): 4
Distance (KM): 6.4
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A short but rewarding hill climb to an Iron Age hillfort with panoramic views over Wooler and the Cheviots. Great for dogs who enjoy open space.
Distance (Miles): 2
Distance (KM): 3.2
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A gentle valley walk following a burn to reach one of Northumberland’s most striking waterfalls. Dogs enjoy the peaceful scenery and accessible paths.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Distance (KM): 4
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A woodland trail filled with bridges, riverside paths and moss covered rocks leading to the impressive Hareshaw Linn waterfall.
Distance (Miles): 3
Distance (KM): 4.8
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A challenging route to the highest point in Northumberland, featuring rugged paths, steep climbs and wide views across the Cheviots.
Distance (Miles): 9
Distance (KM): 14.5
Difficulty: Hard
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A peaceful valley walk through open meadows and quiet lanes leading to a small but beautiful waterfall. Ideal for calm dogs that enjoy relaxed wandering.
Distance (Miles): 4
Distance (KM): 6.4
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking Availability: Yes
A popular and iconic walk along Hadrian’s Wall with rolling hills and the famous Sycamore Gap. Dogs enjoy grassy slopes and well marked paths.
Distance (Miles): 3
Distance (KM): 4.8
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
A scenic circular ridge route with forest tracks, rocky paths and sweeping views over the Coquet Valley. A great moderate walk with varied terrain for active dogs.
Distance (Miles): 5.5
Distance (KM): 8.8
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking Availability: Yes
Explore even more dog friendly adventures across the UK on our Wildpack Map, packed with points of interest for you and your pup, including hiking routes, campsites, road trips and more.
Final Thoughts
Northumberland National Park is one of England’s most underrated walking destinations, and exploring it with your dog makes it even more special. Whether you prefer peaceful riverside routes, atmospheric woodland or sweeping hilltop adventures, there is a walk here to suit every dog. With space, silence and unforgettable views, it is the perfect place for a dog friendly escape.
Completed the walks listed here? No problem! Northumberland is just a stones throw from the Lake District National Park, and there are plenty more dog friendly walks to explore there.