There are a number of short, medium and long walks to be enjoyed from Layside. On a clear day, even a stroll around the block provides some exhilarating views of the Tyne Valley, Hadrian’s Wall and beyond. Today it was frosty underfoot, meaning no muddy paw-prints on our return! Being situated on the top of a hill means that all walks from the door involve a gentle hill climb on return, but this 30-40 minute “around the block” walk takes advantage of a paved surface throughout and wide verges for well controlled dogs to enjoy off the lead.
Leave Layside following the main drive, passing sheep to the left and clear views of Sycamore Gap to your right.
Turn left down the hill, and follow the road all the way to a T junction at the bottom.
Turn left and follow the road passing Primrose House, Oakwell House and Brownside Cottage on your left, and enjoy the views of the South Tyne Valley to your right.
At the wishing well, turn left following the oak tree lined avenue gently up hill, and bearing left at the next junction. You will see Layside again at this point – follow the road around to your left.
Half way along the road on your left is a public footpath sign which can be followed across grazing land back to Layside. This can be quite boggy in places, and dogs will need to be kept under close control or on a lead as livestock will be present for most of the year. Alternatively, stay on the road reaching the junction and turning right up the hill towards Once Brewed, then right again following the main drive back to Layside.
