Bellingham lies on the banks of the North Tyne and on the edge of Northumberland National Park. This gives you a clear choice of focus when planning your stay: would you most like to experience nature, explore local history, or combine both? The waterfall walk to Hareshaw Linn and the historic sites in the centre offer different answers to this question.
Nature and walking around Bellingham
Hareshaw Linn is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The rare ferns and lichens found there are joined by red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers and wood warblers. The Hareshaw Linn walk is a nature-rich family walking route leading to a waterfall, and ends at a 30-foot waterfall. The nature theme therefore encompasses both a named protected area with its wildlife and plant life, and a specific destination along the route.
The Pennine Way is also part of Bellingham’s walking appeal: the village is on the 268-mile route. This long-distance trail differs from the dedicated walk to Hareshaw Linn, which leads to the waterfall. The First & Last Tap Room is in Bellingham, at the beginning and end of the waterfall walk to Hareshaw Linn. This location helps put the walk and its connection to the village in context, without equating it with the longer-distance trail.
Local history and heritage
At Bellingham Heritage Centre, you can explore Bellingham’s industrial and cultural past. The Centre has more than 1,600 collection entries for objects and archival documents; this number may change as the database develops. A self-guided tour takes you through the Centre’s themes and exhibitions. The collection and a tour of your own are both highlights of a visit.
St Cuthbert’s Church adds to this historical focus: parts of the church date from the 13th century. The churchyard contains the Lang-Pack grave, which is associated with the folklore of North Tynedale. St Cuthbert’s Well, also known locally as Cuddy’s Well, lies beside the church—it is an ancient holy well. The St Cuthbert’s Three Church Trail runs from Elsdon via Corsenside to Bellingham, placing the village on a route that extends beyond it.
The surviving remains of Hareshaw Ironworks also point to the area’s industrial history. Parts of an ironworks from the mid-19th century remain standing, as earthworks and underground. Bellingham Bridge offers another historical connection: John Green built the bridge in 1834.
More things to do and practical planning
Golfers are welcome to play at Bellingham Golf Club. Visitor arrangements may change, so check them before booking. First & Last Brewery offers monthly brewery tours with tastings and samples of beer. Check dates and booking options before your trip.
Recurring events can also shape your visit. An indoor pannier-style market takes place at Bellingham Town Hall on the third Saturday of each month; check the date before you travel. The annual Bellingham Show and Country Festival features live bands, children’s activities, food stalls, beer tents and traditional Northumberland games. Check the event dates and programme for the relevant year.
If you’re travelling by bus, the 680 service from Hexham stops at Bellingham Heritage Centre. Timetables may change, so check before travelling. When choosing your accommodation, you can focus on the experiences that matter most to you: the natural surroundings and waterfall walk, Bellingham’s local history, or a stay with time for both.
Discover more destinations: North Sunderland, Longhorsley, Mickley, Allendale Town, Lowick, Edlingham, Slaggyford, Wylam.
For the main travel overview: Northumberland.
