Walking
South Tyne Trail
South Tyne Trail
The South Tyne Trail follows the route of the River South Tyne from the source to Haltwhistle. Open to walkers and cyclists, it is almost 23 miles (36.5km) long and is a fantastic two-day experience in the North Pennines.
Welcome to the South Tyne Trail
Following the South Tyne Trail, on foot or by cycle, is a great way to get to grips with the River South Tyne. It runs from the source of the river, on high and lonely moors, all the way to Haltwhistle.
The 23 mile route makes an ideal two-day outing.
Day one…
…from the source to Alston, is 9.5 miles (15.5km) long and you’ll share your journey with curlew and golden plover. See the miles of stone walls, or dykes, that are such a feature of the North Pennines landscape. Visit Ashgill Force and in low water slip behind the torrent and view a watery world! Wet your whistle at the George and Dragon in Garrigill before stepping out on the home stretch to Alston. Why not pause here for the night and sample the delights of England’s highest market town?
Day two…
…from Alston to Haltwhistle consists of 13 miles (21km) of glorious walking. You’ll initially follow a path next to the narrow-gague railway operated by the South Tynedale Railway between Alston and Kirkhaugh. After Kirkhaugh the route continues to follow the disused Haltwhistle railway line, which closed in 1976. Marvel at the remarkable structure that is Lambley Viaduct as it spans the river – afording grand views east and west as far as the eye can see!
Cyclists’ are welcome too!
The entire route can be cycled from the source to Haltwhistle. Sometimes the walking route and the cycle trail are one and the same, sometimes the routes differ. Mountain bikes are ideal but the only rough patch is a two mile section near the source so any ‘sturdy’ bike should suffice. The cycle trail follows stoned bridleway tracks, quiet country lanes, two short A-road stretches and surfaced, disused, railway lines.
