The Trails

The Trails near Hexham is one of those walking routes that locals bang on about for good reason. It's a proper network of footpaths threading through the Northumberland countryside, offering everything from gentle riverside strolls to hillier hikes that'll test your legs a bit. The landscape shifts constantly as you move through - you'll get woodland sections, open moorland, and the odd glimpse back towards the valley.

Walkers will get the most from this. If you're after dramatic views or a single standout monument, you might find it a touch underwhelming, but the appeal lies in the variety and the fact that you can string together different loops depending on your fitness and how much time you've got. Most people spend two to three hours out here without feeling rushed.

There's no admission charge and no formal visitor centre to speak of - it's all self-guided, which means you'll want to sort a map or download route details beforehand. The ground can get muddy after rain, so proper boots are wise rather than trainers.

If you're staying at Langley Dam Glamping or Panoramic Pods, The Trails makes a straightforward morning or afternoon excursion. It won't replace a visit to somewhere like Hadrian's Wall (which isn't far), but it's exactly the kind of outdoor break that justifies a holiday in this part of the North East. Families with older kids who can manage two hours on foot will enjoy it; younger children might start complaining after ninety minutes.