Whether you’re raring to get out on one of the country’s largest mountain bike trail networks, enjoy a peaceful woodland walk or discover the amazing nature that calls the forest home you can’t visit Northumberland without including a trip to Kielder.
Storm Arwen: Please note that due to storm damage some trails and areas are currently closed. Please click HERE to view the latest update before planning your visit.
Forest walking - Start your adventure at Kielder Castle (NE48 1ER), with a wide range of walks for all abilities and ages available. Whichever you choose you’ll have a fantastic experience, enjoying epic views of the forest, Kielder Water and the jaw-dropping Northumberland landscape as well discovering peaceful forest gems.
The Lakeside Way is the perfect trail to explore – a fantastic multi-user path encircling the entirety of Kielder Water. Enjoy the full 26-mile trail (or even run it at the annual Kielder Marathon!) or explore the shorter north and south sections on foot or by bike.
There are plenty of other trails to enjoy – why not explore the neighbouring woodlands of Sidwoodm Hindhope Linn, Warksburn, Pundershaw or Falstone? View all walking trails HERE.
Cycling and Mountain Biking - There’s nowhere better! Whether you’ve just bought your first bike or a dedicated mountain biker with over 100 miles of trails (forest road and single-track) there’s the perfect one for you here at Kielder. Soak up stunning views along the 26-mile Lakeside Way multi-user trail or get the adrenaline flowing with a full range of mountain bike routes ranging from the green Borderline and blue Osprey trails through to the red/black Deadwater trail – amazing downhill sections with views from Deadwater summit across Northumberland and the Scottish Borders make this a must-ride for experienced bikers.
Bring your own bike or pre-order a rental from our friends at The Bike Place – why not explore even further with an e-bike?
Please Note: Following Storm Arwen the Lonesome Pine and Bloodybush trails are currently closed for repairs.
Plan your mountain bike adventure HERE.
A perfect family day out - Get lost in the Minotaur Maze, hunt for Gruffalo or become a forest superhero with Superworm. With such a range of walking and cycling trails available there’s plenty for little legs to explore as well!
Discover the forest’s wildlife - With so many amazing creatures calling the forest home there’s no end to what you might discover during your visit. Red squirrels, roe deer, otters, bats, and many more species rely on the forest for shelter and food, as well as the largest natural colony of ospreys in the UK (live camera footage of nests shown daily at Kielder Castle April-August each year).
Kielder Salmon Centre, near Kielder Castle, provides fascinating insights into the Environment Agency’s local activity, including rearing salmon and protecting pearl mussels.
Make a night of it - Did you know that Kielder is part of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park? With very little light pollution it’ the perfect place to soak up stars, galaxies and, if you’re very lucky, even the Northern Lights!
Visit Kielder Observatory for a fantastic introduction to the wonders of the universe or enjoy an evening walk under the stars (remember to wrap up warm!).
We’re also happy to welcome overnight motorhome and campervan stays in selected car parks for just £10.00 per night.
Kielder Forest Drive - England’s largest forest is also home to its longest forest drive – a spectacular 12-mile route on forest roads between Kielder Castle and Blakehopeburnhaugh on the A68 and open May to December. Rising to over 450m above sea level, be sure to stop at Blakehope Nick to enjoy the stunning views from the Nick, designed by Newcastle University School of Architecture.
Toll road - £3 per car payable at Kielder Castle entrance/exit point. Please note the forest drive is an unsurfaced road and best suited for 4x4 vehicles, not suitable for low-to-the ground vehicles.
Food to go - Hot food, drinks and snacks are available from our partners The Street Diner at Kielder Castle (NE48 1ER), with pizzas on the menu at selected weekends. Inspired to start planning your own forest adventure? Click HERE to learn more!