Image shared for Windy Gyle

Windy Gyle

619m Elevation
113m Prominence
ES Country

Good walks are even better shared.

Explore routes near Windy Gyle

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Kielder Water to Windy Gyle

A scenic route starting from Kielder Water, leading through woodlands before ascending to the summit.

12 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Ingram Valley Trail

A delightful trek through Ingram Valley, with a gentle rise to the summit, ideal for families.

8.5 km ~3 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall Donald

Elevation

619m

2,031 ft

Prominence

113m

Coordinates

55.4306, -2.2301

NT855152

OS Map

80

Explorer: OL16E

At the Summit

The summit of Windy Gyle is crowned with a sizeable stone cairn, providing a perfect backdrop for a photo opportunity. On a clear day, it’s common to find fellow walkers exchanging cheerful banter at this high point.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly grassy with occasional rocky outcrops; the terrain can be boggy after rainfall.

Primarily composed of sandstone and gritstone, Windy Gyle is a testament to the ancient processes that shaped these hills. The striking ridges and valleys tell tales of glacial activity from the last Ice Age, making it a fascinating area for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

Views stretch across the Northumberland National Park, with stunning panoramas of surrounding hills and valleys, and on a clear day, the distant Cheviot Hills and the Borders are breathtaking.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Gyle' is derived from the Old Norse word 'gill', meaning a deep ravine or a narrow valley, which aptly describes the character of the landscape.

Historical Significance

Windy Gyle and its surrounding areas have been part of historic trade routes and are steeped in local folklore, making it a site of both natural beauty and cultural importance.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Kielder Water Car Park, which has spaces for cars and small vans. Ensure to check for any parking fees.

Public Transport

Public transport options are limited; however, services from Newcastle to Hexham connect to local bus routes that can take you nearer to Kielder.

Nearby Facilities

The area has limited facilities; however, Kielder village has a café and visitor centre during peak seasons. Public toilets are also available in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of sudden weather changes typical in the hills; also, muddy patches can be slippery, so boots with good grip are recommended.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Windy Gyle?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Windy Gyle through the maps

Are there other walkers around Windy Gyle?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Windy Gyle search or of course create your own walk for Windy Gyle

Can I organise a walk to Windy Gyle?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Windy Gyle.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Windy Gyle?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Windy Gyle here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT855152

View on OpenStreetMap

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