Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike
Full Marathon
Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike route maps
The Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike allows you the opportunity to explore an area of beauty on the north east coast of England. You'll start in the iconic grounds overlooking Alnwick Castle before walking out towards the coast. You'll then follow the coast for the rest of the route, stopping at Howick Scar Farm for the half marathon and continuing up to Bamburgh Castle to finish the full marathon.
What's included in your registration fee?
About the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike
The Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike is one of the most beautiful, and least hilly, routes in the series. You’ll start at the iconic Alnwick Castle before walking along the beautiful sweeping beaches and fishing villages of the Northumberland Coast before finishing at the historic Bamburgh Castle.
Hike solo and meet friends along the way or sign up with a team of friends and family for a memorable day together.
"What a great day. So well organised and everyone was looked after and fed so well!" Tania, Northumberland Coast 2025
Mighty Hikes support
We have many resources to help you prepare for your hike, including how to set up your fundraising page. You can also join our Facebook group and meet the Mighty Hikers community.
Frequently asked questions
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When and where does the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike start and finish?
Your Mighty Hike starts at The Pastures, Alnwick Castle, NE66 1NQ, where you’ll join your fellow hikers and get ready to take those first steps together.
Taking on the half marathon? Your finish line is at Howick Scar Farm, Alnwick, NE66 3SU.
Going the full distance? You’ll continue along the Northumberland coast to an unforgettable finish at Bamburgh Castle, NE69 7DF.
Full marathon: Waves every 20 minutes from 06:30
Half marathon: Waves every 20 minutes from 08:00.
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What is the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike route?
Starting in the grounds overlooking Alnwick Castle, you’ll head out towards the coast before joining the coastal path and following it north.
Half marathon: Alnwick Castle to Howick Scar Farm
Full marathon: Alnwick Castle to Bamburgh Castle
Sometimes we may need to make changes to the route to keep everyone safe. If anything changes, we’ll make sure you know.
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What are the route highlights for the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike?
Get ready for some unforgettable moments along the Northumberland Coast:
- Start with Alnwick Castle behind you – Set off with your fellow Mighty Hikers from the grounds of one of Northumberland’s most famous landmarks.
- Reach the coast at Craster – Feel the sea air and take in the views as you make your way through this small fishing village and onto the coastal path.
- Walk towards Dunstanburgh Castle – Watch the castle ruins grow closer on the horizon as you follow the coastline towards one of the most memorable stretches of the hike.
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Where should I stay for the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike?
Want an easier start to your hike day? Alnwick has plenty of hotels and B&Bs to choose from, and you’ll be close enough to walk or drive to the start at Alnwick Castle in the morning.
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How do I get there?
You can reach the start at The Pastures, Alnwick Castle by foot, bike or car. Staying in Alnwick? It’s around a 15-minute walk from the town centre to the start line.
Parking at the start
Half and full marathon hikers can park at The Pastures, Denwick Bridge, B1340, NE66 2QP.
Full marathon finish parking
Parking is also available at Glebe Field, Radcliffe Road, Bamburgh, NE69 7AE. Free shuttle buses will run from the finish to the start before your hike, and back again in the afternoon.
Taking on the half marathon?
After you cross the finish line, a free shuttle bus will take you back to the start at Alnwick Castle.
Book your parking and shuttle bus when you register.
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What if my Mighty Hike gets cancelled?
If we ever need to cancel your Mighty Hike, we know how disappointing that will be after all the training, fundraising and excitement leading up to the big day.
We’ll make sure you know what’s happening.
You'll be contacted by email and text, and live updates will be made to this FAQ document with all the information you need. -
Is the Northumberland Mighty Hike accessible?
We aim to make our Mighty Hikes as inclusive as possible and will do our best to support participants with health conditions or disabilities.
However, please note that our routes are not wheelchair accessible.
If you have any questions about accessibility or specific needs that could help make the hike more comfortable for you, we encourage you to get in touch with us at mightyhikes@macmillan.org.uk.
Ready to join?
Potential training routes in and around the Northumberland Coast
Volunteering at a Mighty Hike
Don’t fancy hiking?
Become a Mighty Hike volunteer instead!
From helping with registration to handing out medals and bubbly at the finish line, there’s a role for everyone. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, meet like-minded people and explore beautiful corners of the UK.
Every hour you give makes a Mighty difference.
See other Mighty Hikes
Don’t fancy this one? No sweat! We’ve got many other beautiful Mighty Hikes in all corners of the UK, hilly and flat, so you can find the perfect challenge for you.