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Countryside Circular

Scots Gap: Wannie Line and Rothbury Railway Circuit

Northumberland

Distance
6.3 mi
Est. time
3h 30m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A 10 km countryside circuit from Scots Gap across the wider Wallington estate, linking two former railway lines with Delf Burn woodland and working farms. Allow about 3 hours 30 minutes for the walk, gates and short pauses.

Start in the walk car park behind the former National Trust office at Scots Gap, NE61 4EG, rather than Wallington Hall’s main visitor car park. Take the field path and steps to the railway junction, then follow the right fork along the Rothbury line. Leave before the Delf Burn crossing for the waymarked woodland and field paths. Continue across the farmland to Low Fairnley, use the footbridge beside the ford, then follow the southern field-edge route past Chesters to rejoin the Wannie Line. Railway cuttings and the steps at Rugley Walls lead back to Scots Gap.

Expect grass, earth, muddy patches, gates and steps. Wear boots, carry food and water, and cross the country roads carefully. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and close gates. This route omits the optional lime-kiln detour. Check the Scots Gap parking signs for any charges or closing restrictions.

Route and access information: National Trust Wannie Line walk, checked 4 October 2026: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/wallington/wannie-line-walk

Walk details

Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
6.3 mi (10.2 km)
Est. time
3h 30m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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