Walk, Wander & Refresh: Scenic Hikes Near The Runhead Pub

August 28, 2025

Pull on your boots and a sense of adventure—because the best walks end with a pint at The Runhead! From riverside strolls to woodland trails and even a stretch of Hadrian’s Wall, we’re perfectly placed for exploring some of the North East’s most scenic routes. Whether you’re after a gentle wander or a longer hike, there’s a trail for everyone – and a cosy pub waiting at the finish.

Historic hiking along Hadrian’s Wall Path near Ryton, with Roman landmarks and walking trails easily reached from The Runhead pub
Scenic riverside walk at Newburn and Wylam along the River Tyne near Ryton, a family-friendly hiking route close to The Runhead pub
Hiking in Chopwell Woods near Ryton, a scenic walking trail with historic mining heritage, minutes from The Runhead pub

Hadrians Wall Path (Heddon-on-the-wall to Chollerford)
4.6 miles from Runhead
Length: 6 hours 9 mins

A great section of the longer Hadrians Wall walk. Few fragments of the wall remain in this section, however look out for turrets, milecastles and Chester’s Roman Fort in Chollerford. 

Newburn, Wylam, River Tyne Circular
2.3 miles from Runhead
Length: 2 hours 44 mins

A gorgeous riverside walk that takes in the beauty of the River Tyne. Historical sites like George Stephenson’s birthplace make this an interesting walk for the whole family.

Chopwell Wood Boundary Walk
4.8 miles from Runhead
Length: 2 hours 20 min

One of several routes round the popular Chopwell Woods, this mix of woodland trails and footpaths takes you round the periphery, with remnants of the coal mining industry scattered throughout.

Walking and hiking in Blaydon Burn Nature Reserve near Ryton, with woodland trails close to The Runhead pub for nature lovers.
Gentle riverside walk along the River Derwent Circular near Ryton, perfect for family hiking before visiting The Runhead pub
Woodland walk through Pontburn Wood near Ryton, a popular hiking route close to The Runhead pub with scenic views and nature trails.

Blaydon Burn Nature Reserve
1.4 miles from Runhead
Length: 58 mins

A delight for nature lovers, right on our doorstep! This walk takes in a winding woodland and waterside trail where you can take your time spotting birds and butterflies.

River Derwent Circular
4 miles from Runhead
Length: 58 mins

A gentle riverside and woodland walk taking you past Clockburn Lake, and through the trees of Derwenthaugh Country Park and returning past the site of Old Hollinside Manor.

Pontburn Wood
7.5 miles from Runhead
Length: 49 mins

A beautiful walk starting at the Pontburn Viaduct, a Grade II listed structure and passing through luscious woodland. This one can get muddy when it’s been raining so dress suitably! 

Countryside walking and cycling trail at Annfield Plain and Kip Hill near Ryton, ideal for hiking routes before relaxing at The Runhead pub
Scenic woodland hike on the Derwent Walk Railway Path near Ryton, close to The Runhead pub—perfect for walking, hiking and history lovers.
Moderate hiking trail at Milkwell Burn Circular near Ryton, surrounded by wildflowers and walking routes close to The Runhead pub

Annfield Plain and Kip Hill
10 miles from Runhead
Length: 2 hours 44 min

A great walking and cycling route, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Mostly concrete underfoot, making this one a good rainy day walk! 

Derwent Walk Railway Path
4 miles from Runhead
Length: 5 hours 36 min

A pretty woodland walk. It follows the former Derwent Valley Railway, a treat for any history buffs or rail enthusiasts! 

Milkwell Burn Circular
5.7 miles from Runhead
Length: 2 hours

A nice moderate circular trail with scenic wildflower meadows to enjoy in the Spring time. 

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