Trails a 'new way' to explore dramatic landscape

Kielder Water is among the areas trail users can visit

A newly linked series of countryside routes will attract thousands of visitors to Northumberland each year, tourism chiefs hope.

Connecting Hadrian's Wall with Kielder Forest and surrounding areas, the Reiver Trails are made up of 10 way-marked paths from six to 57 miles (9.6 to 91km) in length.

The project is a collaboration between Forestry England, Northumberland National Park Authority and Kielder Trust, with funding from Northumberland County Council.

The groups say the scheme offers walkers, cyclists and horse riders "new ways" to explore some of the country's most dramatic scenery.

Existing rights of way and forest roads have been repurposed with future phases set to focus on accessibility, with routes designed for wheelchairs, buggies and balance bikes.

The trails have taken their name from the Reivers, English and Scottish people who raided the two countries' border areas hundreds of years ago.

Paul Nichol, project manager of the Reiver Trails, said a dedicated website along with clear signage on each route would make it easy for people to plan trips.

"From tracing the paths once travelled by the Border Reivers to exploring ancient woodlands and encountering diverse wildlife, the trails invite visitors to engage deeply with one of England's most captivating landscapes."

Andrew Fox, chairman of the Visit Northumberland tourism organisation, said he was confident the scheme would encourage people "to stay longer and explore deeper", while county council leader Glenn Sanderson added he hoped it would "open up some of our less well-known areas".