Cragside Country Park

5 miles (8 km)

This is a circular walk around the gardens of the beautiful Cragside Estate in Rothbury, Northumberland. On the walk you will pass peaceful woodland, Nelly Moss Lakes and two waterfalls. The grounds also boast the largest rock gardens in Europe, an Iron Bridge, and three acres of stunning formal gardens. Also of note is Nelly's Labyrinth - a network of paths and tunnels cutting through a large rhododendron forest. Cragside house is also well worth exploring - it was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity and is still full of ingenious gadgets.
If you'd like to continue your walking in the area then you could head a few miles north to Thrunton Woods where there are miles of peaceful woodland trails with views of the Cheviots. A walk in the Simonside Hills is also a great option, with miles of walking trails and wonderful views. Our Rothbury Circular Walk will take you up into the hills from the town, with lovely trails through Coquetdale and a visit to the interesting archaeological sites on Garleigh Moor above the town.