Northumberland National Park covers much of the county and is one of Northumberland’s greatest scenic attractions and an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The park extends from the crags of Hadrian’s Wall in the south to the summit of Cheviot at 815 m above sea level on the Scottish border ridge to the north, some 398 square miles of delightful wooded valleys and some of the finest stretches of open moorland in the country.

High Hills country is the northern part of the National Park and is dominated by the Cheviot Hills. This is wonderful walking country, with wide open vistas and a splendid solitude that will leave a profound impression. There are three main Cheviot valleys; The Harthope Valley, the Breamish Valley and Coquetdale.

To the south is Reiver Country named after the feuding border families who fought and raided each others homes in the 14th-16th century. The landscapes here are generally softer than in the Cheviots and quite varied. Again there are three main areas of special interest to visitors; Redesdale, the North Tyne Valley, and Hadrian’s Wall.

There are many ways to enjoy the countryside, from short leisurely strolls and picturesque village rambles to more challenging hill and moorland treks, and with more than 60 miles of way marked footpaths and bridleways to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice. For those exploring the area by bicycle there are many quiet country lanes and way-marked cycle routes.