If you fancy stretching your legs with the family, the picturesque surroundings of Alnwick Castle make for a delightful stroll and wander. Whether you have young children in pushchairs or older kids ready to explore a bit more independently, Alnwick is home to plenty of walking routes to keep your family active and entertained during your visit.
Short walks for families in Alnwick
Sometimes all you need is a nice stretch of the legs, and there are so many scenic walks around Alnwick that will take you and your clan less than an hour. It’s the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the area, to see some of the beautiful landscape of Northumberland, and to get some healthy fresh air.
1. River Aln Walk
Fancy a family walk along one of Alnwick’s most scenic routes? Take a walk around the River Aln. This route provides stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife, like sea trout, salmon, and herons. If you look close enough, you may even spot our resident population of otters.
The path is mostly flat and suitable for pushchairs. Along the way, you’ll find picnic areas, plenty of benches to rest, and toilets at the starting point.
Please note that this route is located next to open water. Children should always be accompanied by an adult.
2. Alnwick Garden Walk
For the months when Alnwick Castle is closed to the public over the winter. The Alnwick Garden walk offers a gentle stroll through our beautifully manicured gardens, perfect for families with young children. With 4.7km of pushchair-friendly paths, you can easily tailor the time you spend to your family’s needs.
Longer walks for families in Alnwick
Maybe your children’s legs aren’t so little anymore, so a longer walking route is in order. The beauty of Alnwick is that you can tailor your family walk to be as short or long as you wish.
1. Hulne Park Circular Walk
Hulne Park is part of the Duke of Northumberland’s estate — the perfect setting for a longer walk. It will take you through woodlands, past historic ruins, and across open fields.
This long Alnwick walking route is great for families with older children, especially if they like learning about history. You’ll find plenty of picnic spots and resting areas scattered along the route, and facilities are easily accessible at the park entrance.
2. Alnwick to Alnmouth Coastal Walk
Looking for a day-long walking adventure in Alnwick? The Alnwick to Alnmouth walk will get the sea breeze into your lungs and get your legs moving.
This route starts at Alnwick Castle and takes you to the charming coastal village of Alnmouth. The path is more varied than the others we’ve mentioned, with some sections suitable for pushchairs.
Once you’ve had your seaside fix, you can take a break at one of the quaint beachside cafes in Alnmouth. Public toilets and baby changing facilities are also available in both Alnwick and Alnmouth.
Winter walks for the family in Alnwick
From October to March, we close Alnwick Castle to the public for the season — however, this doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do. Alnwick is beautiful in the winter, and the season adds to its fairytale-like charm.
1. Hulne Abbey Winter Walk
Hulne Park remains open during the castle’s off-season, offering serene walks through frosty landscapes. It’s a 1-hour walk from the park’s entrance to the abbey — a stunning ruin in the quiet countryside. Simply follow the signs through the woodland trails towards the abbey and loop back when you are ready.
Before you set out on your winter wander, make sure to check the Hulne Park website to plan your route and to check their opening dates and times.
2. Alnwick Town Winter Walk
Winter is the most magical time to explore the historic town of Alnwick on foot. From the cobblestone streets to foggy-windowed cafes filled with chitter-chatter, this walk will take you past key landmarks like the Alnwick Playhouse and Barter Books. Did you know it’s one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Britain? Perfect if you have any bookworms and literary fanatics in the family.
Reward yourself by enjoying a hot drink or snack in one of the town’s family-friendly cafes. There are also public toilets conveniently located throughout the town for your convenience.
Make Alnwick Castle a stop on your walking route
As you wander around Alnwick, why not pop into Alnwick Castle and say hello? Learn about our castle’s vibrant history, get the kids involved with our fun activity schedule, get involved in our castle tours and talks, or stay for a bite to eat and a refreshing drink at one of our on-site cafes.
Family walks around Alnwick offer an exciting mix of history, nature, and adventure. From short, scenic strolls to longer, more challenging routes, there's something for everyone.
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