Haltwhistle Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Haltwhistle with this detailed travel guide including attractions, accommodations, food scene and more.


Introduction to Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle is a town located in Northumberland, North East England, United Kingdom. The place has gained popularity for its scenic beauty, rich history and culture, and plethora of outdoor activities. This is a place where nature-lovers, history-enthusiasts, adventure-seekers, and peace-seekers converge. It is an ideal destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

List of Places to Visit in Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle has something for everybody. The place is replete with museums, historical sites, outdoor activities, scenic routes, and much more. Below is a list of places that should not be missed.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Roman Army Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history of the Roman army stationed in the area. It is located on the site of a Roman Fort, which was built to guard the border of the Roman Empire. The soldiers who were stationed here were from different parts of the Roman Empire, including Spain, Italy, and North Africa. The museum offers various displays, interactive videos, and educational programmes that give a detailed account of the Roman army’s life and battles.

Vindolanda

The Vindolanda fort was built during the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 84. It was used as a garrison fort along the famous Hadrian’s Wall and had a strong connection with the Roman army. The site is still under excavation, and visitors can witness archaeologists and volunteers working on site. The fort offers a glimpse of the daily lives of the Roman soldiers stationed here via exhibits of what they wore, wrote, ate, and used.

Natural Attractions of Haltwhistle: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in England. It was built around AD 122 under orders from emperor Hadrian as a defence fortification, from coast to coast across Northern England. The wall is dotted with numerous forts, settlements, and milecastles, this area is an archaeological delight and an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are some incredible hikes along the wall, including the challenging 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall Path that runs from coast to coast.

Kielder Water and Forest Park

Kielder Water is known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful forest surroundings. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in Northern Europe, created to help protect cities downstream from flooding. Visitors can enjoy cycling, walking, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and many other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle is a hiking and biking paradise, with a plethora of scenic routes and trails. Below are a few notable routes:

Pennine Way

Pennine Way is a legendary long-distance walking trail that runs for 268 miles from Derbyshire, across the Pennines, to the Scottish Borders. The route passes through Haltwhistle, and with over 12 days, hikers can complete the full length.

Wark Forest Trail

Wark Forest Trail provides a perfect route for mountain bikers to explore the beautiful scenery around Haltwhistle. The trail starts from Greenhaugh and is ten miles in length.

Best Things to Do in Haltwhistle: Activities and Tours

Haltwhistle is full of activities, tours, and events throughout the year to keep visitors entertained. Below we have listed some of the best things to do in Haltwhistle.

Haltwhistle Swimming and Leisure Centre

Haltwhistle Swimming and Leisure Centre is a state-of-the-art leisure centre with a gym, swimming pool and sauna facilities. It offers a great place to relax after a long day of exploring.

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge is known for its lush and majestic woodland surroundings on the banks of the River Allen. It has plenty of walking trails, wildlife watching opportunities and picnicking spots. During springtime, it is one of the best places to see bluebells.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haltwhistle

Below is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Haltwhistle

Day 1: Tour of Vindolanda and Roman Army Museum

Day 2: Hike the Pennine Way route

Day 3: Visit Hadrian’s Wall

Day 4: Cycling in Kielder Water and Forest Park

Day 5: Explore the local area such as Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Day 6: Visit the historic St. Mary’s Church

Day 7: Explore local museums such as The Great North Museum and Laing Art Gallery

Food and Drink Scene of Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle offers a wide range of food from local cafes, pubs, and restaurants. The cuisine is a mix of traditional British fare and international cuisine. Below are a few must-visit foodie spots:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sausage and mash
  • Fish and chips
  • Steak and ale pie
  • Sunday roast

Local Beverages

  • The local beer, The Twice Brewed Inn IPA, is brewed near Hadrian’s Wall.
  • Northumberland’s local gin, Hepple Gin, ranges from a London Dry, Sloe & Hawthorn to Douglas Fir

Where to Stay in Haltwhistle: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Haltwhistle has a range of accommodations to fit every budget. Visitors will find a variety of options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Below are some options to consider:

  • YHA Haltwhistle - a budget-friendly hostel
  • The Samson Inn - a charming country pub with affordable rooms
  • The Milecastle Inn - a historical and modern pub and hotel

What to Buy in Haltwhistle: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Haltwhistle has a range of souvenir shops selling everything from postcards to local crafts. For those looking for something a little more unique, it’s possible to buy locally made artwork such as pottery, jewellery or textiles. Other popular souvenirs include:

  • Hadrian’s Wall memorabilia
  • Northumberland ale or gin
  • Local fruits and cheeses

Local Culture and Customs of Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle, like many towns in Northumberland, has a rich heritage and strong connections with Roman cuisine, language, and customs. Haltwhistle also has a strong Christian tradition, with many churches celebrating regular Sunday services and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Haltwhistle

The best time to visit Haltwhistle is during the summer months between May and September, when the weather is mild and the days are longer. However, autumn can also be a beautiful season to visit the area, with the region boasting the famous “Northumberland Dark Sky” event, which draws visitors from across the country.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haltwhistle

Do:

  • Respect historical sites, museums and natural areas
  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities
  • Drink plenty of water when undertaking outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural landscapes and historical sites
  • Make loud noises or disturb wildlife when hiking

Safety and Health

Safety in Haltwhistle

Safety in Haltwhistle is not a significant concern. However, visitors should take reasonable precautions, such as not venturing into the countryside unprepared.

Health in Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle has a rural location with a limited number of medical facilities. Visitors should check with their general practitioners for information on required vaccinations.

Getting to Haltwhistle: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Haltwhistle

Newcastle International Airport is the nearest airport to Haltwhistle. It is an hour’s drive away and serves domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle Bus Station is located in the town centre, with multiple bus services to and from other major Northumberland towns.

Other Options

The nearest railway station is Haltwhistle Station, which connects the town to Newcastle and Carlisle.

How to Get Around in Haltwhistle

The best way to get around Haltwhistle is by car or bicycle. There are also several taxi companies in the area that provide transportation services.

Where to Go Next from Haltwhistle: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Located in the North East of England, Haltwhistle is perfectly situated to explore the surrounding countryside, towns, and cities. Some popular destinations nearby include:

  • Hexham- A small town with Roman heritage, located just 10 miles away from Haltwhistle.
  • Newcastle- the largest city in the North East of England and less than an hour’s drive from Haltwhistle.
  • Kielder Observatory- A world-famous centre for astronomy, located in Kielder Water and Forest Park

Conclusion

Haltwhistle offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities, which makes it one of the most visited places in the North East of England. This comprehensive guide should help visitors plan their trip to Haltwhistle and create an unforgettable experience.

Haltwhistle Train Station Haltwhistle Train Station