The Best Waterfalls in Northumberland: Three Northumberland Walks with a Wild Swim Plunge Pool

If you love the sound of rushing water, woodland walks, and hidden natural marvels, then Northumberland has a few surprises waiting for you. This county is best known for its castles, coastline, and moorlands. However, tucked away in the hills and forests are some truly breathtaking waterfalls. These are the kind you stumble across and wonder why more people don’t talk about them.

In this blog, I’ll share three of my favourite waterfalls along the Northumberland 250 route. These aren’t just beautiful spots for photos. They’re places where the landscape feels alive, where magic echoes through the trees, and where the sound of falling water drowns out everything else.

Northumberland's very impressive twin waterfall, in full flow after a heavy downpour

I’ve chosen Hareshaw Linn, Crammel Linn, and Linhope Spout for their natural beauty, seasonal character, and unforgettable walks. Each of these waterfalls has its own unique feel. They are all very different, and each is located in a completely different valley throughout Northumberland.

Please leave a comment if you have a few favourites of your own! Let’s begin the adventure...

Weaving through woodland on a waterfall walk to Hareshaw Linn

Hareshaw Linn: A Woodland Walk Through Time

Located just outside the market town of Bellingham, Hareshaw Linn is one of Northumberland’s most delightful walks. It is a manageable trail that takes you deep into a wooded gorge, crossing six charming bridges before ending in a secluded arena of rock, moss, and cascading water.

The waterfall itself is about 30 feet high and framed by overhanging trees. This beautiful setting always reminds me of Burnett’s ‘The Secret Garden.’

Standing at the edge of Hareshaw Linn, looking into its woodland plunge pool

But my real joy of Hareshaw Linn is the journey to get there. The path weaves through ancient woodland, past trickling streams, and under canopies filled with vocal birds and wildlife. If you visit in early spring, the forest floor is carpeted with wild garlic and bluebells. The air fills with the unmistakable freshness of new flowers as they dance with the promise of a change in season.

Autumn is another perfect time to visit. The leaves turn every shade of gold, amber, and crimson, and the light filtering through the trees is quite magical. It is quieter than the summer months, and if the weather has been kind, it can still be warm enough for a quick wild swim in the deeper pools near the falls.

Millions of wild garlic flowers lining the pathway to Hareshaw Linn in Spring

Top Tip: Arrive early or late in the day for the best light and a chance to have the place to yourself. Out of all the waterfalls in this blog, Hareshaw Linn is by far the most popular. The other two I've visited on numerous occasions and never seen another person there.

Hareshaw Linn in late Spring when the waters aren't as heavy flowing

Useful Information Points:

• Walk Length: Around 3 miles there and back

• Walk Terrain: A little bit of an incline at the start of the walk. The paths can get very muddy, walking boots recommended

• Parking: Free car park in Bellingham near the Heritage Centre

• Dog Friendly: Yes

• Child Friendly: Yes, with supervision on bridges and near water

• Best Seasons: Spring and autumn

  
  
  
  

The approach road to Crammel Linn is on MOD land

Crammel Linn – The Wild and Dramatic Double Fall

If you’re after something a little more untamed, Crammel Linn near Gilsland is a true hidden gem. Unlike the more visited Hareshaw Linn, this double waterfall lies in a rugged landscape of boulders, cliff edges, and sweeping views across the Irthing Gorge.

The falls tumble over two wide ledges and plunge into a rocky pool below. The last time Jeff visited, he could hear the roar of the water from nearly a mile away, thanks to several days of heavy rain. It is one of those places where the sheer power of nature leaves you awestruck.

Crammel Linn's waters thundering over the rocks

Getting to Crammel Linn involves a short but sometimes boggy and uneven walk from a lay-by near the road, followed by a clamber down a steep slope. It’s not the easiest to reach, but that’s part of what keeps it so special. Another thing that probably puts a lot of people off are the military warning signs just a few hundred yards before you arrive at the turning for the waterfall. The land is part of RAF Spadeadam, the only Electronics Warfare Tactics training facility in Europe. However, the footpath to the waterfall is signposted as a permissive path; just don't venture off it.

The surrounding area is rich in wildlife and history, with Roman ruins and wildflowers scattered through the fields. Look out for the rusting Cold War military aircraft across the road on the MOD side of the site.

The stunning surroundings of Irthing Gorge and RAF Spadeadam

Top Tip: Visit after a period of rainfall for the most dramatic experience. The flow varies with the weather, but after a storm, it becomes thunderous.

Useful Information Points:

• Walk Length: Less than 1 mile each way but uneven underfoot

• Walk Terrain: Flat until the last 200 yards, then a rather steep descent; the path can be waterlogged

• Parking: Small lay-by off the military road, the path is signposted at the lay-by

• Dog Friendly: Yes, but take care near steep drops

• Child Friendly: Not ideal for younger children due to the terrain

• Best Seasons: Late winter through spring, or after heavy rain in autumn

A friend and fellow photographer enjoying the solitude of Linhope Spout

Linhope Spout – A Wild Swimming Paradise

For a waterfall with a true wow factor, head for the Cheviot Hills and seek out Linhope Spout. This spectacular 60-foot waterfall tumbles straight into a deep plunge pool, hidden at the end of a peaceful walk through the Ingram and Beamish valleys.

It is one of the most perfect places in Northumberland for a wild swim. The water is icy but refreshing, especially on a hot summer day.

Linhope Spout on a beautiful September morning, we had the place completely to ourselves

The whole area feels secluded, wrapped in silence apart from the rushing water and the occasional buzzard overhead. There are grassy spots nearby, perfect for a picnic, and smooth rocks for sunbathing if the weather allows.

Despite its beauty, Linhope Spout rarely feels busy. Even in summer, you may only pass a few other walkers. The path leading there is a bit of an uphill climb, so bring water and wear good boots. But it is absolutely worth it.

Just look at those views, incredible!!

Top Tip: Bring a towel and your wild swimming gear in the warmer months. There are few places better for a refreshing dip with an incredible view.

Useful Information Points:

• Walk Length: Around 3 miles round trip

• Walk Terrain: It's a fairly good path, not boggy or muddy, but it does get your heart pumping for a short part of the walk

• Parking: The roadside near Linhope, as the public road comes to an end, park up here

• Dog Friendly: Yes

• Child Friendly: Older children who enjoy walking

• Best Seasons: Summer for wild swimming, spring for flowers

Looking over the edge of Linhope Spout to the plunge pool below

Hope You've Enjoyed Our Waterfalls of The Northumberland 250

There is something special about walking through quiet woods or open hills and finding a waterfall waiting at the end. It feels earned. Hareshaw Linn, Crammel Linn, and Linhope Spout are three very different experiences, but they each offer something unforgettable: the scent of spring garlic, the roar of a river after rain, or the perfect pool on a summer afternoon.

Ending my adventure at Hareshaw Linn and heading for home

Final Thoughts and What's Your Next Northumberland 250 Adventure?

If you’re planning a Northumberland 250 road trip and want to get off the beaten path, add these waterfalls to your list. They’re not just great photo spots; they’re places to stop, breathe, and feel part of the landscape.

If you love to hike, check out our other hiking posts. You're sure to enjoy our "The Four Best Forest Walks in Northumberland."

Come along and join our Facebook group to share your own hidden gems with fellow explorers.

For more in-depth top tips, places to see, and places to eat out in Northumberland, check out our fantastic 377-page, full-colour Northumberland 250 Guidebook.

See you at the water’s edge,

Debby & Jeff

The official Northumberland 250 Adventures travel guide