Berwick-upon-Tweed Coast and Walls Trail

Route Description for Berwick-upon-Tweed Coast and Walls Trail

Terrain along the Berwick-upon-Tweed Coast and Walls Trail is fairly laid back; however, you should still wear comfortable walking shoes for this adventure. As there will likely be heavy foot traffic, especially around the town wall, be sure to keep your dog on a lead at all times. Lastly, the coastal portion of this walk does border a golf course, so keep an eye out for any stray golf balls that may come your way.

Although there will likely be a fair number of other walkers out exploring this trail, it is for good reason, as the beautiful coastal scenery and fascinating historical sites really make for a memorable excursion. Whether your aim is to learn about the historic walls and gatehouses surrounding this often fought over town or to simply take a relaxing stroll by the sea, you will definitely be impressed by all that is on offer here.

Setting out from the car park on Pier Road, you will head to the north and pick up the footpath, as it leads you north in between the golf course on your left and the water on your right. Here, you will enjoy sweeping views across the North Sea, as you traverse the terrain above the beach and cliffs.

After meeting up with a road, you will follow it to the northwest for a short distance to arrive at an intersection, turning to the southwest in the direction of the town. Here, you will gain your first views of the impressive town walls that once protected Berwick, as you pass through the Cowport Gate and turn right along the path.

This next portion of the walk is easy enough to navigate, as you will follow along the walls as they circle around the town in an anticlockwise direction. Here, you will enjoy some wonderful views of the charming historical streets, the River Tweed, the Royal Tweed Bridge, and the various gatehouses stationed around the walls.

Eventually, you will arrive back at the Cowport Gate and pass back through it, picking up the first footpath on the right to begin the final leg of the walk.

Here, you will skirt around Flagstaff Park and make your way to the southeast to eventually arrive back at the car park where you started the Berwick-upon-Tweed Coast and Walls Walk.

Trail Highlights

Berwick Town Walls

Constructed during the early 14th Century under the reign of King Edward I, the Berwick town walls are a series of defensive fortifications that measured 1 m 4 inches thick and up to 7 m tall. Built after Edward I captured the town from the Scots, the walls had fallen into a state of disrepair by 1405, allowing Henry IV to easily capture the town. The walls were later re-built during the 16th Century in an Italian style, which are the walls still standing today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Berwick-upon-Tweed a walled city?

Yes, Berwick-upon-Tweed is a walled city that was initially fortified during the medieval period and was later improved during the 16th Century.

How long are the Berwick town walls?

The original length of the Berwick town walls was 3.2 km in the Medieval period; however, this was shortened during the 16th Century improvements.