Filled with Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the North of England is one of the best places to saunter through on a free weekend. From the Lake District to the Yorkshire Dales, there’s plenty of dense forest, serene lakes, and rolling hills to embrace in this part of the country. Everyone should be able to appreciate the natural beauty around us, so we’ve found the best accessible walking routes in Northern England so you can walk for miles without stiles.
Miles Without Stiles is an initiative to help everyone, no matter their accessibility needs, enjoy the British countryside. This means these routes have smooth paths, no steep inclines, and, most importantly, no stiles. They have three tiers for walks that explain the accessibility level of each trail:
- For All: these walks are fully accessible including wheelchair users and only have a 1:10 gradient. These paths are fully tarmacked and smooth.
- For Many: these are for users with more robust scooters or wheelchairs, the path may be rougher stone rather than tarmac.
- For Some: Only a few wheelchair users may find these accessible due to steeper gradients, low steps, and rougher paths.
We've included what type each walk is below so you know what to prepare for before you get there. Some of the routes require both train and bus travel, these routes are also labeled. To make these routes easier to get to grab a PlusBus ticket to ensure a smooth onward journey.
Miles Without Stiles: Lake District
Orrest Head Walk
Type: for many
This circular route takes you to the summit of Orrest Head, from which you can see the entirety of Windermere from a 360-degree view. The ascent is easygoing, apart from a couple of steep sections, but it is still doable on a scooter, with approximately 120m of elevation throughout the whole route. Just make sure you follow the blue signs for the full accessible route.
Walls Drive, Ravenglass
Type: for all
A historic walk, you’ll head along the estuary toward the old Roman Bathhouse for the Ravenglass Roman fort. A blend of natural beauty and man-made history, this route requires a class 2 or 3 scooter in order to see one of the largest surviving Roman structures in England. 2.2km in distance, give one of England’s lesser-known historic towns a chance this walking season. If you're looking for something slightly more challenging, look out for the Ravenglass to Saltcoats walk. Designed for some, you can try both walks in the same day if you're feeling adventurous or save one for another day.
Miles Without Stiles: Peak District
Dovestone Reservoir (PlusBus)
Type: for all and some
This walk is worth the slight bit of extra travel by bus. A 3km loop, this walk will take you around the beautiful Dove Stone Reservoir, which was once the site of a Victorian shooting lodge, the remains of which can still be seen today. The reservoir is also a great spot for birdwatchers, but nature appreciators will enjoy the walk just as much. Some of this walk isn’t accessible for all, but the section for all is sure to still inspire awe.
Goyt’s Lane (PlusBus)
Type: for all
A short 1km walk, you’ll walk across the former Cromford and High Peak Railway, giving you an elevated view of the surrounding Peak District. Accessible for all, you’ll walk past the reservoir that once powered the steam engines that pumped up the hill you’ll be meandering along. Don’t worry; the incline isn’t steep, and you’ll be treated to serene views on the doorstep on Buxton.
Miles Without Stiles: North Yorkshire Moors
Whitby
Type: for all
A classic Miles Without Stiles walk, this route will take you along the Cleveland Way and past the famous Whitby Abbey. A great choice for an afternoon saunter, you’ll be able to take in 3km of beautiful Yorkshire coastline while on your way for one of Whitby’s specialty fish suppers. The walk only has 135 metres of elevation, making it perfect for an easy Sunday walk.
Ingleby Incline
Type: for some
Celebrate the marvel of Victorian engineering with this walk. The trail begins right outside the station and takes you up the Ingleby Incline as well as dense woodland. This walk is perfect for experienced mobility scooter users or those confident in walking due to the 290 metres of incline along with the 3.6-mile-long trail. However, if you’re up for it, you’ll be treated to some exceptional views and local landmarks (look out for the Stovepipe Hat and Bird Man in the rocks).
Miles Without Stiles: Northumberland
Cresswell Pond (PlusBus)
Type: for all
A man-made feature, this pond was formed when some old mine works collapsed, leading to an excellent feeding ground for the local bird population. A good option for those looking for a shorter walk that’ll still allow you to embrace nature, with a ramp leading to the pond area, this walk can be appreciated by all. This walk is best appreciated in spring and autumn to get the most out of the birdwatching.
Tyne Riverside Country Park (PlusBus)
Type: for all
Only a short way out of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, this country park has fully paved paths that weave through the woods and along the riverbank. The gull route is 4 miles long, which leads you through approximately 200 acres of meadows, forests, and grassland with the river at your side all the way. This is a perfect walk for all, that can easily fill an entire afternoon. There is also a cafe within the country park open every day.
Trains to Northumberland
Take the chance to explore an underappreciated area of England. From Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to castles galore, there's plenty on offer in the North Eastern reaches of the country.
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