Matt and I like to visit Northumberland whenever we can.  A place we like to stop for a stroll when driving up is the National Trust property of Wallington, which is situated about 12 km west of Morpeth.

The hall itself is beautifully furnished and has a magnificent central hall which was originally an open courtyard.  Here there are fascinating murals depicting the history of Northumberland.  The room is unique and definitely worth a visit.  You can also learn about the interesting history of the hall and estate, which was the home of the Trevelyan family for generations.

However we often go just to enjoy the gardens and surrounding woodlands.  They are perfect to break up a journey and stretch the legs.

Wallington has a lovely Walled Garden, recently refurbished, with laid out paths, water features and flower beds.

There is a large restored glasshouse, which contains a collection of beautiful flowers and is well worth a visit.

If you fancy a longer walk, you can follow signs from the walled garden to the River Wansbeck, and then follow the River Walk circuit on a path through lovely woodland.  The circuit involves crossing the river on stepping-stones (not difficult!).   You then follow the clear path, passing beneath a lovely arched bridge, before returning to the main property further down the river.

The circuit takes just over an hour, and can easily be done in either direction.  For more detailed route directions and a map see this page.

We recently did the walk in November, and the trees were splendid with their autumn colours.

Some of the trees in the estate are very ancient, like this magnificent old beech tree.

The woodland also contains a hide, with a feeding station set up to enable you to watch the resident woodland birds.  They were certainly appreciating it when we visited.

Also in the estate is an ornamental lake, picnic areas, the Clocktower Cafe and shops for souvenirs and plants.

Practicalities

To reach Wallington, leave the A1 on the A696 near Newcastle (heading for Ponteland and the Airport).  After about 20 miles take the B6342 – the property is situated at Cambo. It can also be reached from Morpeth by following the B6343.

If you like to visit National Trust properties regularly, membership makes a lot of sense.

As a member you get free access to over 500 National Trust properties (including National Trust for Scotland), and free parking in many NT car parks.  Just a few visits will recover the membership fee and you will then be saving money.  You can visit as often as you like, and you will be contributing towards the care and maintenance of these very special places.

For information about access, opening times, prices for non-members, and more general information about the history of the property, follow this link.

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