Five Northumberland hill walks for crags, history and big views

A hillfort above Ingram, a huge sandstone boulder near Harbottle, a ridge overlooking Rothbury and two Cheviot summits: these five walks give you plenty of reasons to head uphill. Each has a different focal point, so you can choose around what you most want from the day, whether that’s exploring an ancient site or reaching the county’s highest ground.

Allow time for the ascent, the descent and the stops that make the day worthwhile. Any distance or time shown is a Walkmates-listed estimate; your pace and conditions will affect the total.

1. Brough Law from Ingram Valley

Walkmates-listed estimate: 1.2 miles (2 km), 1 hour 5 minutes; out-and-back.

Brough Law gives a hill walk a historical destination. Above the Breamish Valley, the remains of an Iron Age hillfort occupy the summit, overlooking a bend in the river. The Atlas of Hillforts records substantial stone defences here, adding something to investigate when you stop to look around. The Walkmates route describes an out-and-back ascent from the valley, with views opening towards the surrounding Cheviots. The fort gives the walk a focus beyond simply reaching the top; leave its fragile stonework undisturbed.

2. The Drake Stone and Harbottle

The Drake Stone makes a memorable centrepiece: a huge sandstone boulder standing above Harbottle, with healing powers attributed to it in local folklore. The Walkmates itinerary also describes Harbottle Lake, the River Coquet and the castle ruins, giving the day several points of interest beyond the stone itself. Beside the lake, keep to the footpath: the National Park’s route leaflet warns of deep water beneath the surrounding bog.

3. Simonside Hills

Walkmates-listed estimate: 3.8 miles (6.1 km), 2 hours 30 minutes; circular.

Simonside’s craggy ridge is the draw here. Above Rothbury, it offers a different outline from the rounded Cheviot hills, with ancient cairns adding interest along the high ground. Northumberland National Park describes views towards both the Cheviots and the North Sea coast, with visibility naturally depending on conditions. The Walkmates listing identifies Dove Crag and Simonside among its route landmarks. The succession of crags makes the ridge itself the highlight.

4. Hedgehope Hill from Langleeford via Housey Crags

Hedgehope brings the Harthope Valley’s high hills into close view. The Walkmates description takes the approach from Langleeford through Housey Crags and Long Crags towards the summit, with views back into the valley and across to The Cheviot. Those named crags give the ascent interest before the summit becomes the main event. Allow time for the changing perspective as you gain height. Check that your chosen itinerary matches this Langleeford approach, since Hedgehope also has routes starting elsewhere, including Linhope.

5. The Cheviot from Langleeford via Scald Hill

For a summit with a clear claim to fame, choose The Cheviot: Northumberland National Park identifies it as Northumberland’s highest point, reaching 815 metres. This Walkmates route approaches from Langleeford via Scald Hill, giving the walk a named intermediate landmark before the summit. The description notes boggy or muddy ground after wet weather, so recent conditions deserve attention when planning. Reaching the top of the county gives this outing a particular sense of occasion. Choose a day that suits the forecast and your hill-walking experience.

Choose your hill, then plan the day

Start with the feature that catches your interest: Brough Law’s hillfort, the Drake Stone, Simonside’s ridge, Hedgehope’s crags or The Cheviot’s summit. Then allow enough time for the actual itinerary, ascent and stops. The National Park’s walking checklist recommends checking the forecast, choosing a walk suitable for everyone and being able to navigate with a map and compass. Hilltop conditions can be much worse than those in the valley.