River walk at Wallington
Take a tranquil walk along the banks of the River Wansbeck, crossing over bridges and stepping stones, it's the perfect spot for a stroll whatever the season. Explore the woods and see what wildlife you can find on this riverside walk.
Near to
WallingtonStart point
Wallington Courtyard, grid ref: NZ028843Trail information
Caution
At certain times throughout the year, water levels can be high on the River Wansbeck, which means the stepping stones may be underwater. Speak to the team on your arrival at Wallington who can advise if the stepping stones are open on your visit. If they are closed, please take extra care and head along the road to cross the river using Paine’s Bridge instead.
Total stages: 9
Total stages: 9
Start point
Wallington Courtyard, grid ref: NZ028843
Stage 1
Start in the courtyard with the clocktower behind you and head to the gateway in the left-hand corner. Pass through the gateway, turn left onto East Drive and away from the house to the main road.
Stage 2
Take care as you cross over the road and enter the East Wood. Head straight ahead down the Serpentine Walk to reach Garden Pond.
Stage 3
Follow the path around the edge of Garden Pond and enter the beautiful walled garden through the doorway known as Neptune Gate. You can pause here to explore the garden or simply walk straight ahead along the terrace with the conservatory on your left and exit via the far doorway.
Stage 4
On leaving the walled garden, head down Gooseberry Walk until you reach a gateway beside the road. You’ll see the Paradise Gates at the bottom of the walled garden behind you, and Garden House on your left.
Stage 5
Cross the road and enter the small woodland opposite via a gate. Follow the path to the River Wansbeck and carefully cross over the stepping stones. Be aware that when the river levels are high, the stepping stones may be underwater. Please take extra care and head along the road to cross the river using Paine’s Bridge instead.
Stage 6
Once over the river, there is a choice of paths, either through the meadow along the edge of the river or on a hardened pathway through Deanham Wood.
Stage 7
Pass under Paine’s Bridge, through a gate and continue to follow the pathway into the woodland known as Wallington Dean.
Stage 8
Continue on the path alongside the river and through the woods, eventually crossing over the river again at Trout Bridge. Follow the path as it rises uphill.
Stage 9
Once at the top of the valley, you have a choice of two paths. To the right is a shorter route, which takes you through the West Wood and back to the courtyard at Wallington. To extend the walk, take the path to the left and along Fenwick’s Drive further into the West Wood. When you reach a junction in the paths, turn left and keep straight ahead. Turn right and pass Top Pond on your left. The path then bends to the right. Continue straight ahead and back towards the house and courtyard.
End point
Wallington Courtyard, grid ref: NZ028843
Trail map
River walk, Wallington route map | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
More near here
Wannie Line walk
Follow this circular walk along the Wannie and Rothbury railway lines and discover Wallington's post-industrial landscape.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Things to see and do in the garden at Wallington
Discover the colourful, fragrant plants in the Walled Garden, take in the different spaces and areas and look out for the peaceful Mary Pool. Come along and enjoy live music from local musicians in the glorious surroundings of the Walled Garden every Sunday in June.
Visiting Wallington with your dog
Wallington is a two pawprint rated place. Find out where you can walk your dog at Wallington, from the miles of parkland and woodland trails to the historic walled garden.
Eating and shopping at Wallington
Stop by the Clocktower Café at Wallington for a selection of hot and cold drinks, and homemade bakes. Then browse the shop for gifts, books, homewares and more.
Tips for walking near livestock at Wallington
The wider estate at Wallington has several cattle and sheep farms. Read our guide to staying safe around the animals when you’re walking along the estate's footpaths and trails.
Walking in the North East
Explore some of the best walking routes in North East England with the National Trust. From scenic coastal walks and historic countryside trails to family-friendly and dog-friendly paths, discover unforgettable walks across Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, and County Durham.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.