Kirkwhelpington, Northumberland
★★★
This straightforward loop is the shortest and probably the most interesting of several National Trust-advertised trails starting from the grand mansion at Wallington, Northumberland. After a meander through the wonderful gardens (best in summer), a path leads down to a set of stepping stones across the River Wansbeck, which can be followed upstream eventually looping back towards the start. You must buy a ticket for Wallington itself to access most of this route – allow half a day to explore the house, grounds and the walk itself.
Chronological photo guide
Location
Start / finish at Wallington, off the B6342 2 mi east of Kirkwhelpington
O.S. Grid Reference: NZ 028844
GPS coordinates: 55.153770,-1.959343
No public transport within 1 mi
Car park – compulsory admission fee for Wallington
Key info
4 km / 2 mi | ▲ 40 m |
1 hr
Features:
Wallington ★★★★;
River Wansbeck
⬤ Easy | Clear path with a little ascent / descent – potentially a few muddy spots. Stepping stones may be impassable after heavy rain – in which case there is a less interesting detour available via nearby roads.
Clockwise circuit: start & Wallington House – China Pond – Garden Pond – Walled Garden – stepping stones across River Wansbeck – follow south bank upstream – Boathouse Pond – start




















On our last visit
Wildlife: Mallard ducks, small birds.
Weather: Mostly sunny, temperature in high teens.
August 2021