The best walks and hikes in North Pennines AONB

Yes, there are over 450 hiking routes to explore in the North Pennines. The trails range from easy riverside walks to challenging ascents over exposed moorland, offering options for all ability levels.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the dramatic landscapes, from the open heather moors to the deep dales. The area's famous waterfalls and the sense of tranquility on the quieter trails are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

The North Pennines is famous for its waterfalls. For a challenging day out, the Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout loop takes you to one of England's largest cataracts. The area around High Force and Low Force in Teesdale also offers spectacular scenery and numerous walking paths.

Absolutely. The region has many gentle walks suitable for families. A great option is the Tunstall Reservoir loop, which is a short, relatively flat walk of about 2 miles (3.2 km) offering lovely water views without any major climbs.

Dogs are welcome on most public rights of way. However, the North Pennines is an important area for ground-nesting birds and livestock grazing. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially between April and August, and always around farm animals.

While many trailheads are best reached by car, some areas are accessible via public transport. Bus services connect towns like Alston, Stanhope, and Middleton-in-Teesdale to larger hubs such as Hexham and Barnard Castle. From these towns, you can access local footpaths and sections of long-distance trails.

Most popular trailheads and visitor centres, such as Bowlees Visitor Centre (for High Force) and Cow Green Reservoir, have dedicated pay-and-display car parks. For walks starting in villages like Dufton or Blanchland, on-street parking may be available, but it's important to park considerately and not obstruct local residents.

A significant and particularly dramatic section of the Pennine Way, England's oldest National Trail, crosses the heart of the AONB. Other notable long-distance routes include the Weardale Way, which follows the River Wear, and Isaac's Tea Trail, a circular 36-mile (58 km) route exploring the area's industrial heritage.

Yes, due to its vastness, it's easy to find solitude in the North Pennines. Exploring the network of trails around the various dales, such as Allendale or Weardale, will often lead you to quieter paths away from the main tourist hotspots like High Force.

The North Pennines is renowned for having the darkest mainland skies in England and is a designated Dark Sky Discovery area. Many trails are located near the 16 official Dark Sky Discovery Sites. You can enjoy a late afternoon hike and stay on after sunset for some incredible stargazing opportunities, particularly from exposed moorland viewpoints.

The hiking terrain is incredibly varied. You'll find deep, glacier-carved valleys like High Cup Gill, expansive heather moorlands, and lush river valleys in the dales. The region's UNESCO Global Geopark status reflects its unique geology, which has created a landscape of dramatic waterfalls, rolling hills, and distinctive rock formations.