NT9229 : The Hillfort Trail up the south flank of Yeavering Bell

Yeavering Bell

361m Elevation
93m Prominence
England Country
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NT9229 : The Hillfort Trail up the south flank of Yeavering Bell

Tim Heaton Photo source

Explore routes near Yeavering Bell

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

Yeavering Bell and Easter Tor Circular

7.6 km Moderate

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Hethpool Linn and Yeavering Bell from Kirknewton

10.5 km ~4h 30m Hard

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Wooler Common Pond Loop

0.7 km ~30m Easy

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Humbleton Hill Circular with Hill fort

5.1 km ~2h Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Classic Yeavering Bell Circular

This classic circular route begins at the small parking area near Kirknewton (grid ref NT9291929339). Follow the well-trodden path through the fields towards the base of Yeavering Bell. The ascent takes you up the southern slopes, offering views of the Iron Age hillfort remains at the summit. Descend via the northern side of the hill, looping back to the start point through a gentle track along the valley floor.

7.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Yeavering Bell from Wooler

Starting in the market town of Wooler, this longer route follows the St. Cuthbert's Way trail towards Yeavering Bell. The path winds through heather moorland and farmland, gradually ascending to the hill's summit. This route provides a more extended experience with a mix of scenery and a rewarding view from the top, before retracing your steps back to Wooler.

16 km ~5.5 hours Challenging

Short Ascent from Hethpool

This is a shorter and more direct route starting at Hethpool car park. Follow the track towards the hill and ascend Yeavering Bell via its western flank. The route is steep but quick, leading directly to the summit where you can explore the hillfort remains. Descend using the same path or take a slightly longer loop back via the valley.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy to Moderate

Hillfort Explorer Loop

This walk begins at the parking area close to Kirknewton (grid ref NT9291929339) and is geared towards history enthusiasts. It explores not only Yeavering Bell but also other nearby archaeological sites like the Gefrin Anglo-Saxon site. The route combines open countryside walking with a steady ascent to Yeavering Bell, followed by a loop through historical points of interest.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

College Valley and Yeavering Bell

This scenic route starts at the entrance to the College Valley (permit required for vehicle access). It takes you through lush valley landscapes before ascending Yeavering Bell from the east. This route combines tranquillity with stunning views of the surrounding Cheviot Hills. Descend via the southern side and return along quiet valley tracks.

12 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

300-399m hill Subhump

Elevation

361m

1,184 ft

Prominence

93m

Coordinates

55.5577, -2.1138

NT929293

OS Map

74 75

Explorer: OL16E

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a prominent cairn and the remnants of an ancient hillfort, providing a tangible link to the past.

Terrain & Geology

Grass-covered slopes interspersed with rocky outcrops offering a variety of walking experiences.

Yeavering Bell is primarily composed of ancient volcanic rock, largely formed from basalt, providing a solid footing as you make your ascent. The rugged terrain has been sculpted by glacial action, making it a site of geological interest.

Views & Scenery

The summit boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding Cheviot Hills, the Northumberland National Park, and even the distant Scottish Borders on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Yeavering derives from the Old English 'geafara,' meaning 'gift,' while 'Bell' is derived from the shape of the hill, reminiscent of a bell.

Historical Significance

The area is rich in history, with evidence of Iron Age settlements and early Christian sites, making it a treasure trove for history buffs.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking area is located at the Gleadscleugh valley car park, which has space for several vehicles and is accessible by car.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs from Wooler to the villages around the Cheviots, but check the local timetable for current routes and availability.

Nearby Facilities

In Wooler, you'll find cafes, public toilets, and basic shops. However, facilities near the mountain are limited, so stock up before heading out.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of sudden changes in weather; conditions can deteriorate rapidly in the hills. Additionally, be cautious of uneven ground and the occasional boggy patch.

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 Yeavering Bell?

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

Are there other walkers around Yeavering Bell?

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 Yeavering Bell search or of course create your own walk for Yeavering Bell

Can I organise a walk to Yeavering Bell?

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 Yeavering Bell.

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 Yeavering Bell?

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 Yeavering Bell here

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

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT929293

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