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Hexham Group

Weekly walks all year round, highly regarded footpath maintenance work and a great way to make new friends – three good reasons to join Hexham Ramblers!

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

A moderate walk on open moorland with great views over Blanchland village to the moorland on the other side of the Derwent valley.  

We start with a gentle climb out of Blanchland, passing the old Shildon mine works on the way to Pennypie House. We then cross the heather-covered Bulbeck Common to join the Carriers Way, enjoying a mostly flat walk on Birkside Fell.  After lunch at Blackburn Head, we take an easy climb up Newbiggin Fell before descending down into the Derwent Valley and returning to Blanchland. 

We use well maintained paths although some do cross wet moorland and have rubbled stone underfoot. There are only two stiles to navigate but care is needed on the loose surface of the final descent to the Derwent River valley.

Sunday, 17 December 2023
Start time:
10:15 am
Estimated finish time:
3:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
14.5km / 9.0mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
circular

Advance booking is required for this walk. To reserve your place, please e-mail the walk leaders, Miriam and John, through the contact box above - and remember to include your mobile number in the mail. 

Booking opens on Monday, 11th December.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available

Starting point

Grid reference:
NY 96467 50450
Nearest postcode:
DH8 9TA
what3words:
mammoths.output.decades
Start time:
10:15 am

Meet at Blanchland car park. Parking is free of charge, but a £1 donation is requested.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking