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.