Whatever your age, getting out in the fresh air is a great way to ensure you get enough exercise, so why not explore the Northumberland countryside?
It’s well known that getting enough exercise has many health benefits, whatever your age.
But did you know that studies have shown that exercising outdoors lowers a person’s heart
rate and blood pressure?
Walking is a great way to get some exercise, while taking in beautiful scenery.
Here at Home Instead South East Northumberland, we’ve put together a list of a few of our favourite beauty spots for a gentle walk suitable for all ages. All of these beauty spots are accessible, meaning that they can be enjoyed by everyone.
Bolam Lake Country Park
Lying just outside of Morpeth near Ashington, with a range of woodland and lake view
walks around the Park, Bolam Lake has a fully accessible route around the lake, meaning it
can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Surrounded by picturesque grassland, you can even learn about the history and the wildlife in the visitor centre. And once you’ve finished your walk, why not relax in the café for a well-earned tea and cake?
Northumberlandia
Also known as the ‘Lady of the North’, Northumberlandia is a unique piece of public art set in a 46 acre community park not far from Cramlington. When viewed from above, you can see the landform sculpture of a reclining lady. Built with carefully chosen clay, rock and soil from the nearby Shotton mine, Northumberlandia features accessible flat gravel paths, making this a perfect relaxing walk for a summer’s day.
Cresswell Pond
A stone’s throw from Druridge Bay’s stunning coastline, and around a 20-minute drive from Bedlington and Morpeth, Cresswell Pond is perfect for keen birdwatchers. This shallow brackish lagoon provides a year-round haven for wading birds. Created because of subsidence of old collapsed mine works near Ellington, a traditional mining town near Ashington, this pond is a mixture of fresh water and salt water from the sea. There’s even a path leading down to the bird hide, accessible by ramp, which could be perfect for grandparents to share a love of ornithology with their grandchildren.
Duke’s Trail, Kielder Water
This pleasant stroll through Kielder Castle’s grounds and woodlands was specifically designed for use by wheelchair users (with assistance), and families with buggies. Home to England’s largest forest, as well as Europe’s largest man-made lake, you are sure to be stunned by Kielder’s natural beauty. You’ll find plenty of parking, and if you live in Ponteland, the trail is just over an hour away by car.