Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
263 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk

The Bolam Lake and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk is a wonderfully scenic adventure in Northumberland that features a charming lake and views from a rocky outcrop. While out walking the trail, you will cut across the countryside and pass through Bolam Country Park to view the shores of Bolam Lake, before climbing uphill for views from the Shaftoe Crags. This is a great route if you are looking for a laidback way to experience the natural beauty of Northumberland.

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Route Description for Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk

Walking the Bolam Lake and Shaftoe Crags Circular Trail is a fantastic experience, thanks largely to the easy-going terrain and beautifully scenic landscape. While the route is a bit on the longer side, you will be able to experience wonderful views of Bolam Lake, as well as the surrounding countryside from atop the rocky outcrop of Shaftoe Crags, making this an excellent adventure to experience the North of England.

Setting out from the trailhead at the Church of St Andrews, you will make your way south to meet up with the road and head right, following it west until you arrive at the edge of Bolam Country Park. Here, you will make your way south to skirt around the woodland shores of Bolam Lake, enjoying the views across the water before continuing on to the southwest.

After traversing the open farmland, you will climb slightly uphill towards the rocky summit of Shaftoe Crags, where you will enjoy some sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This is a great spot to rest and have a quick snack before heading back on the return leg. Descending the crags to the north, you will follow the route as it turns to the east and leads you once again across the countryside on the return to the trailhead where you started.

Getting to the Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk Trailhead

The trailhead for the Bolam Lake and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk can be found next to the Church of St Andrews in Bolam.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Bolam Lakes and Shaftoe Crags Circular Walk Reviews

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