Relax
Overview
Named the most tranquil place in England (by the Campaign to Protect Rural England), Kielder Water & Forest Park is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and simply chill out.
Day one
Why not start the start the day with a gentle stroll? Take it at your own pace – there are a multitude of routes for all abilities.
The Lakeside Way is a multi-user trail that gives you a unique new experience. For the first time there is access to many of the most scenic parts of the lake shore, new views and the opportunity to interact with some of the abundant wildlife.
There is a lovely stretch from Leaplish Waterside Park to the Mirage deck where an art installation called Mirage used to hang in the trees. Approximately 3.5 miles it will take an hour and a half each way.
Following this, take a stroll to Kielder Castle for a warming lunch at the Duke’s Pantry. The former hunting lodge for the Duke of Northumberland is now host to a visitor centre, shop, art gallery and exhibitions.
The Pheasant Inn at the entrance to the Park will provide a wonderful evening meal and great service. For accommodation, chose from the lodges at Leaplish Waterside Park (some complete with spa bath) or a whole host of B&Bs nearby.
Day Two
From Leaplish Waterside Park you can get the Osprey ferry for outstanding views around Kielder Water to Tower Knowe Visitor Centre and its interactive exhibition. Now is a great time to stop for a coffee or lunch at Café on the water.
You might prefer to return to Leaplish Waterside Park and have a spot of lunch at the Boat Inn restaurant and bar. Why not spend the afternoon pottering around the wildlife garden at Leaplish which boasts a variety of different habitats and species. There is even a human sundial.
Don’t forget to check out the flying demonstration at Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre (check on the morning what time the demonstration will be that day).
Round off your relaxing trip with a swim in the indoor heated pool at Leaplish Waterside Park and then rejuvenate in the sauna.
Places and distances (click attraction name for more details)
Thanks to the Lakeside Way, a multi-user trail that follows the 27 mile Kielder Water shoreline, you can have a unique and beautiful walking experience.
Approx 3.9 mile(s) between Lakeside Way and Kielder Waterside
With views of the reservoir Leaplish Waterside Park is the ideal base to recharge and refresh or take part in an action packed day of activities. The Boat Inn Restaurant and bar serves fresh new locally sourced menus throughout the day.
Approx 2.02 mile(s) between Kielder Waterside and Mirage - Kisa Kawakami 2006
Approx 1.91 mile(s) between Mirage - Kisa Kawakami 2006 and Kielder Castle Visitor Centre
Kielder Castle Visitor Centre is open all year round, 10am to 5pm (11am opening for exhibition Now to March) . Kielder Castle is the visitor centre for Kielder Forest. Features include information centre, tearoom and exhibitions about forestry and conservation. Bike hire available.
Approx 7.03 mile(s) between Kielder Castle Visitor Centre and The Pheasant Inn
This historic 17thC inn lies within the Northumberland National Park and is close to Kielder Water. Out and about there is walking, golfing, cycling, riding, fishing and all water sports are nearby.
Approx 4 mile(s) between The Pheasant Inn and The Osprey Ferry
OSPREY FERRY
The Ferry is now running on the regular timetable of Wednesday and Saturday.
If you require any further information on the Ferry Timetable please contact 01434 251000 as subject to change on Bank Holidays
Approx 0.22 mile(s) between The Osprey Ferry and Kielder Waterside
With views of the reservoir Leaplish Waterside Park is the ideal base to recharge and refresh or take part in an action packed day of activities. The Boat Inn Restaurant and bar serves fresh new locally sourced menus throughout the day.
Approx 0.04 mile(s) between Kielder Waterside and Boat Inn Restaurant
Boat Inn - Evening meals booking advised. Due to it's waterside setting, your dining experience at The Boat Inn will be accompanied by panoramic views across the water. We have a full range of hot and cold food served daily where you can enjoy Kielder's beauty in comfortable surroundings.
Approx 0.31 mile(s) between Boat Inn Restaurant and Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre
Visit one of the largest and most fascinating collections of birds of prey in the North of England, located within the magnificent forest lakeside surrounding Kielder Water.
Open daily except for Christmas Day. April to October 10.30am-4.30pm. November to March 10.30am-4.00pm. For more information please go to http://kwbopc.studiofoundry.co.uk/p>
Map of places in the itinerary
Produced By Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust. Registered Charity Number: 1139328. Members: Northumbrian Water, Forestry Commission, Calvert Trust Kielder, Northumberland County Council, Northumberland National Park Authority and Kielder Observatory Astronomical SocietySupported by the Joicey Trust.
