Easter in Northumberland – Coast, Castles & Hadrian’s Wall
Spend Easter exploring some of the very best of Northumberland on this four-night guided walking holiday, combining spectacular coastline, historic castles, Holy Island of Lindisfarne and Hadrian’s Wall.
Based on the Northumberland coast, we’ll spend four days discovering a different side of the county. We’ll walk across to Holy Island of Lindisfarne, follow beautiful stretches of the coast around Bamburgh and explore the landscape and history of Hadrian’s Wall.
There’s plenty of time to enjoy the places we visit too, rather than simply walking through them. From castles and ancient history to huge beaches and quiet coastal paths, this is a varied Easter break with a great mix of walking, sightseeing and time together as a small group.
As with all Large Outdoors trips, you can come along on your own. We organise the accommodation, guided walks and transport during the trip, leaving you to simply arrive and enjoy Easter in Northumberland.
Holiday at a Glance
Duration
4 nights · 4 walking days
Walking grade
Leisurely
Distance
Approx. 8 - 10 miles per day
Price
From £645pp
Group size
Maximum 8
Accommodation
Hotel
Transport
Car-free · Transport included
Meals
Breakfasts included
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Select a date to check availability, room options and prices.
Upcoming departure dates
Thursday 25 March - Monday 29 March 2027 (Easter Weekend)
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
A four-night Easter walking holiday in Northumberland
Northumberland is made for exploring on foot. Big open beaches, dramatic castles, historic villages and miles of coastal paths make it one of our favourite places for a walking break – and this longer Easter trip gives us time to explore beyond the coast too.
One of the highlights is Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Cut off from the mainland by the tide twice each day, the island has a fascinating history and a wonderful sense of place. We’ll time our visit around the safe crossing of the causeway, with time to explore the island as part of our day.
We’ll also discover the Northumberland coast around Bamburgh, where the huge castle dominates the landscape above the beach, before heading inland on another day to explore Hadrian’s Wall and the surrounding countryside.
With four days of guided walking, the itinerary has plenty of variety without feeling rushed. There’s a good balance between walking and having time to enjoy the places we visit, with all our transport during the trip taken care of.
You’ll be joining a small, sociable group, and there’s no need to come with anyone else. Many of our guests travel on their own, making this an easy way to spend Easter exploring Northumberland with other people who enjoy getting outdoors.
Trip Highlights
Cross the tidal causeway to Holy Island of Lindisfarne
Walk the Northumberland coast beneath Bamburgh Castle
Explore Hadrian’s Wall and the surrounding Roman landscape
Follow coastal paths through fishing villages and sweeping beaches
Four different guided walks showcasing coast, castles and history
Suggested Itinerary
Here’s what we’ve got planned - of course, we may have to offer alternatives or make amendments if the weather misbehaves or other unexpected situations arise! Please note, walk order may change due to weather or tide times for Lindisfarne.
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If you’re arriving earlier in the day, Alnwick is a great place to spend a few hours before the trip begins, with plenty of shops, cafés and places to explore, including Alnwick Castle.
Hotel check-in is available from 15:00. If you’re travelling by train, we offer a free pre-booked collection from Alnmouth station at 18:00.
Our Large Outdoors host will be waiting to welcome you in the hotel bar that evening. We’ll get everyone together, make introductions and run through the plans for the days ahead.
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Distance: 6–8 miles
Today is all about one of Northumberland’s most extraordinary places – the tidal Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
Rather than simply driving across the causeway, we’ll make the journey to the island on foot, following the traditional Pilgrims’ Way across the tidal sands. For centuries, pilgrims have made their way across this landscape towards Lindisfarne, and the poles marking the route across the sands remain one of the most distinctive sights on the Northumberland coast.
Once safely on the island, we’ll have plenty of time to explore. Lindisfarne has a remarkable history stretching back more than 1,300 years, with its ancient priory, castle and connections to some of the earliest Christian communities in Britain.
Our walking today is deliberately shorter, giving us time to enjoy the island rather than rushing through it. We’ll explore some of its coastline and quieter corners, with free time to visit the priory or castle, wander around the village or perhaps sample some locally produced mead before we leave.
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Distance: 8–10 miles
Today we leave the coast behind and head inland for a day on one of Britain’s most remarkable historic landmarks – Hadrian’s Wall.
Starting near Steel Rigg, we’ll follow the wall east towards Housesteads Roman Fort before retracing our route. This out-and-back walk means we can spend as much of the day as possible actually walking alongside the wall, through one of its most impressive and atmospheric sections.
The route takes us through the classic Hadrian’s Wall landscape, where the wall follows the natural ridge of the Whin Sill. Along the way there are sweeping views across the Northumberland countryside, Roman remains and plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate just how extraordinary it is that this frontier was constructed almost 2,000 years ago.
Don’t be fooled by the relatively modest mileage today. Hadrian’s Wall rarely travels in a straight, flat line and this section has plenty of short climbs and descents. We’ll take them at a leisurely pace, with regular stops and breaks along the way.
There’s no rush today. We’ll make time for refreshments and to enjoy the history and landscape before making our way back to the coast.
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Distance: approximately 7–9 miles
We begin today beneath the unmistakable walls of Bamburgh Castle before setting off along the Northumberland coast towards Seahouses.
Our route follows this beautiful stretch of coastline, with wide beaches, dunes and fantastic views back towards Bamburgh Castle. We’ll reach the bustling harbour village of Seahouses, where there’ll be time to stop for a brew and enjoy a break before making our way back along the coast towards Bamburgh.
Back in Bamburgh, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. You might choose to visit Bamburgh Castle (entry not included), take a look inside the historic St Aidan’s Church, explore the village or simply find somewhere for tea, coffee and refreshments.
It’s a lovely day combining a classic Northumberland coastal walk with plenty of time to enjoy two of its best-known villages.
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Distance: approximately 5–8 miles
For our final day, we’ll enjoy another stretch of the Northumberland coast, with the exact route chosen to make the most of the weather and conditions.
We might head to the fishing village of Craster and walk along the coast towards the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, or explore the coastline around Alnmouth and Warkworth, with its impressive medieval castle overlooking the village.
Whichever route we choose, expect another lovely coastal walk with sea views, historic landmarks and time for a final brew or early lunch before we say our goodbyes.
For those travelling by train, we aim to drop you at Alnmouth station between 15:00–16:00. We recommend booking a flexible return ticket where possible.
Essential Information
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Meeting Locations & Times
Name & Address:
Premier Inn Alnwick
South Road
Alnwick
NE66 2PFCheck-in: From 15:00
Welcome meeting: 18:00 in the hotel barYour Large Outdoors host will meet you in the hotel bar at 18:00 for a welcome, introductions and a briefing about the days ahead.
Travelling by Train
The nearest railway station is Alnmouth, approximately 4 miles from Alnwick.
Station Pickups
We provide a free pre-booked collection from Alnmouth railway station at 18:00 on Day 1.
This must be booked in advance so we know to expect you.
Travelling by Car & Parking
If you are driving, travel directly to the hotel in Alnwick. Parking is available at the hotel for the duration of the trip.
Transport During the Trip
All transport required for the planned itinerary is provided by Large Outdoors. Once you have arrived in Alnwick, there is no need to use your own vehicle during the trip.
Departure & Return Travel
On Day 5, we aim to finish between 15:00 and 16:00.
Guests travelling by train will be dropped at Alnmouth railway station.
We recommend booking a flexible or open return ticket where possible, as the exact finishing time can vary depending on
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Accommodation Location
We stay in Alnwick for all four nights, giving us a great base for exploring the Northumberland coast, Holy Island of Lindisfarne and Hadrian’s Wall.
Name & Address:
Premier Inn Alnwick
South Road
Alnwick
NE66 2PFAccommodation Type
We stay at the Premier Inn Alnwick, offering comfortable hotel accommodation throughout the trip.
Rooms & Sleeping Arrangements
Accommodation is in comfortable en-suite hotel rooms.
Depending on the room option booked, you'll either have your own room or share a twin room with another Large Outdoors guest of the same sex.
Twin and double rooms are also available for two people booking together, subject to availability.
Bathrooms, Bedding & Towels
Bathrooms: All bedrooms have private en-suite bathroom facilities.
Bedding: All bedding is provided.
Towels: Towels are provided.
Breakfast
Breakfast is included each morning at the hotel, with a choice of cooked and continental breakfast options.
Lunch
Lunches are not included.
We'll provide opportunities to pick up lunch during the day or before setting out, depending on the day's itinerary. On some days there may also be an opportunity to stop at a café for lunch or refreshments.
You're very welcome to bring along any additional food or snacks you'd like for the day.
Please bring a reusable water bottle.
Evening Meals
Evening meals are not included in the trip price.
We'll organise opportunities for the group to eat together in Alnwick, usually at a local pub or restaurant.
The cost of evening meals and drinks is paid separately.
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Accommodation & Meals
Included:
4 nights’ hotel accommodation in Alnwick
Breakfast each morning, including Day 5
Not included:
Lunches and snacks
Evening meals and drinks
Guiding & Support
Included:
Experienced Large Outdoors walking guide throughout the trip
Support and assistance from your Large Outdoors host throughout
Transport & Transfers
Included:
Transport to and from all walking start and finish points
Pre-booked collection from Alnmouth railway station on Day 1
Return transfer to Alnmouth railway station on Day 5
Not included:
Travel to Alnwick or Alnmouth at the start of the trip
Onward travel from Alnmouth at the end of the trip
Additional Costs & Exclusions
Not included:
Entrance fees to attractions, including castles, abbeys and visitor attractions
Personal travel or activity insurance
Personal purchases and other expenses during the trip
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Walking Grade
This trip is graded Leisurely.
The walks are taken at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for stops, refreshments and exploring the places we visit. Daily distances are generally around 6–9 miles.
Terrain
The terrain varies throughout the trip and includes coastal paths, beaches, dunes, tidal sands, field paths and some uneven or potentially muddy ground.
Our Hadrian’s Wall day is more undulating, with a series of short but noticeable climbs and descents as the route follows the natural ridgeline. We’ll take our time on these sections and have regular breaks.
The Pilgrims’ Way crossing to Holy Island can involve walking across wet sand and shallow water depending on conditions and tide times.
Fitness & Experience
You don’t need to be an experienced long-distance walker, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours and covering up to approximately 9 miles in a day over varied terrain.
A reasonable level of general fitness and confidence walking on uneven ground is recommended.
If you regularly enjoy countryside walks of around 6–8 miles, including some hills, you should be well prepared for this trip.
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Walking Clothing & Footwear
Comfortable walking boots or shoes with good grip
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Comfortable walking trousers and suitable layers
Warm fleece or jacket for cooler weather
Walking socks and spare clothing
Daypack & Essentials
Small daypack for your daily walks
Reusable water bottle
Snacks and any personal medication
Sun protection, including sunglasses and sun cream
Personal first-aid items
Holy Island Crossing
Our planned walk across the Pilgrims' Way to Lindisfarne involves crossing tidal sands, which can be wet, muddy and uneven.
We recommend bringing footwear suitable for the crossing, along with a small towel and a spare pair of socks. Some people choose to make the crossing barefoot, depending on conditions.
Clothing for the Hotel & Evenings
Bring comfortable casual clothing and footwear for relaxing at the hotel and joining the group for evening meals.
Full Kit List
We've put together a useful walking kit list to help you prepare for your holiday.
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Booking Confirmation
Once you've booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and our full booking terms.
Deposits & Balance Payments
If you've paid a deposit, we'll automatically email you a reminder when your remaining balance is due. Balances are normally due 12 weeks before departure.
Your Trip WhatsApp Group
Ahead of your trip, we'll invite you to join a dedicated WhatsApp group for your holiday.
It's a great way to say hello to your fellow walkers, ask questions and get to know everyone before you arrive. Most of our guests join us on their own, so it's a nice way to break the ice.
Joining is entirely optional.
Final Details
A couple of days before departure, we'll send you a final reminder with your guide or host's name and contact number, along with any important last-minute information.
Keeping Up to Date
Everything you need to plan your trip, including meeting locations, times, accommodation and travel arrangements, is provided on this page.
We recommend checking back here from time to time before departure, as we'll update the page if any arrangements change. You don't need to wait for your final email to organise your travel.
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Can I join this walking holiday on my own?
Absolutely. Many of our guests come along on their own. Our small, sociable groups make it easy to meet other people and enjoy the trip together.
Do I need to be an experienced walker?
No. This is a Leisurely graded holiday, with a relaxed walking pace and regular breaks. You should be comfortable walking approximately 6–9 miles over varied terrain, including some hills on Hadrian’s Wall.
Will we definitely walk across to Holy Island?
We plan to follow the traditional Pilgrims’ Way across the tidal sands to Lindisfarne. However, the crossing depends on safe tide times, weather and conditions underfoot. If necessary, we'll adapt the itinerary.
Do I have to walk barefoot to Holy Island?
No. Walking barefoot is optional. You can wear suitable footwear for the tidal crossing, although you should expect wet and potentially muddy conditions.
Can I travel by train?
Yes. We offer a free pre-booked collection from Alnmouth railway station at 18:00 on arrival day, with a return drop-off on the final day.
Are entrance fees to castles and attractions included?
No. Visits to attractions such as Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne Priory are optional, and any admission fees are paid separately.
Are evening meals organised?
Yes. We'll organise opportunities for everyone to eat together, usually at local pubs or restaurants. Evening meals and drinks are not included in the holiday price.
Do I need my own transport during the holiday?
No. All transport required for the planned walks is provided by Large Outdoors, so you can leave your car at the hotel or travel to Northumberland by train.
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Select a date to check availability, room options and prices.
Upcoming departure dates
Thursday 25 March - Monday 29 March 2027 (Easter Weekend)
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
Questions Before You Book?
Not sure whether this walking holiday is right for you? We're always happy to help with questions about the walks, accommodation or joining us on your own.
Email hello@largeoutdoors.com or get in touch through WhatsApp.