Accessibility in Northumberland National Park

Are you considering a visit to Northumberland National Park or the county’s scenic coastline? We know that exploring somewhere new can come with extra challenges if you have a disability, so in this guide we’ve set out some of our favourite accessible walking routes, attractions and activities to help you make the most of what this fantastic part of North East England has to offer. We’ve also included a few tips about getting around in Northumberland, as well as ideas for places to stay.

Accessible walks in Northumberland National Park

There are dozens of amazing walks in Northumberland, and the good news is that several of our favourite spots to explore are accessible to all. 

Accessible country parks in Northumberland

For walks that are accessible to all, start with Northumberland’s fantastic country parks. All of these great green spaces have dedicated accessible parking and toilet facilities, and most also have accessible cafés and picnic areas. All of these parks are within easy driving distance of Newcastle (the most distant one, Druridge Bay, is just 40 minutes away from the city centre).

• Tyne Riverside Country Park is located close to Newcastle in a peaceful, flat area with lots of wide, level and well-made paths. As well as having great views over the river, the park is home to a sensory garden that people with access needs may enjoy. 
• A few miles north of Newcastle is Bolam Lake Country Park, a peaceful spot with a lake and woodlands. The one-mile path around the lake is fully accessible to wheelchair users, and there are various other routes around the grounds that will be suitable for most people with disabilities. 
• For a day out at the coast, head to Druridge Bay Country Park, which has a lake, woodlands and beach access. Many of the paths around the park are fully accessible to wheelchairs, and there’s also an accessible visitor centre overlooking the lake.

Accessible walking routes in Northumberland

• Head to the National Trust’s Wallington Estate near the A696 for a 3.7-mile/six-kilometre circular loop of the grounds. Most of the paths here are accessible, and the National Trust has produced a colour-coded access map to help you plan your day as easily as possible. Non-members will have to pay an admission fee to enter the grounds; designated accessible parking is available.
• Hauxley Nature Reserve is a great place to see rare bird and flower species and enjoy the Northumberland coast. This peaceful wetland nature reserve has a circular walk that's fully accessible to wheelchair users, as well as two accessible bird hides where you can spend some time finding out more about the area’s wildlife. There are also accessible toilets available, and while family pets aren’t allowed, guide dogs and other assistance dogs are welcome. 

Looking for more ideas? The Accessible Countryside website has lots more inspiration for accessible walks in the Northumberland National Park and surrounding area.

Accessible Hadrian’s Wall walks in Northumberland

If you’re looking to explore Hadrian’s Wall, there are a number of viewpoints and short walks worth exploring. Many of them can be reached via the AD122 bus route, which serves most of the key tourist attractions along Hadrian’s Wall. The buses have low floor access, and disabled bus pass holders can travel free of charge. 

• From Steel Rigg car park there is a short wheelchair-accessible footpath to the wall itself. 

• Walltown Quarry has a range of accessible paths with views over Hadrian’s Wall. A map with information about path makeup and gradient is available from the on-site visitor centre. 

Accessible attractions and activities

There are lots of things to see and do in Northumberland that are well adapted for people with disabilities. Some of our favourites include:

• Bamburgh Castle - The majority of this stunning seaside castle is accessible to wheelchair users. Used as a filming location in a number of iconic blockbusters, Bamburgh Castle and its grounds have a shuttle buggy to take those who need it between the entrance and the car park. Touch tours are also available for blind and visually impaired visitors. Check out the castle's accessibility statement for full details.

• The Alnwick Garden –The Alnwick Garden is a complex of formal gardens adjacent to Alnwick’s historic castle. Home to over 4000 species, it's an incredibly rich and diverse environment, with a mix of bamboo mazes, cherry groves, tree houses and water sculptures. The paths here have smooth and level surfaces, and there are a number of designated routes for wheelchair users. Sensory packs for children are also available (just ask at reception), and carers of paying visitors with disabilities are admitted free of charge. 

• Newbiggin Maritime Centre – Located on the Northumberland coast, the friendly Newbiggin Maritime Centre brings together an accessible museum, café and shop in a stunning seaside location. Located right next to an accessible promenade and accessible parking area, it’s a great stop-off point for anyone exploring this part of the North Sea coast. 

• Hexham Abbey – Located in the centre of the pretty town of Hexham, the gorgeous 12th-century Hexham Abbey sits in attractive green surroundings. The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, so don’t hesitate to come inside and admire the remarkable architecture and stunning stained glass windows. 

Accessible places to stay

Pitchup.com has a range of campsites and glampsites in Northumberland with disabled facilities. Whether you’re looking for a modern caravan park with lots of amenities or a simple farm site in a rural location, there are plenty of places to stay across the whole county. 

For cheap indoor accommodation, YHA youth hostel The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall has modern facilities and wheelchair access. More accessible accommodation options including hotels and guest houses can be found on the Visit Northumberland website.