Image shared for Simonside Ridge and Dove Crag
Upland / Hill Circular

Simonside Ridge and Dove Crag

Northumberland

Distance
4.4 mi
Est. time
3h
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A forest approach followed by a traverse of the sandstone ridge above Rothbury. Leave the Simonside forest car park on the uphill track and follow the red trail through the trees. The route turns west past the Little Church Rock area, then climbs towards the crags. A steep stepped path leads onto Simonside. Follow the ridge east over Old Stell Crag to Dove Crag, then turn north into the forest and return by the track beside Coe Burn.

The rocky ridge is the main attraction, with open views towards the Cheviots and the coast in clear weather. The circuit is 7 km. Allow about three hours, including stops. Forest tracks are fairly straightforward, but the climb and ridge have stone steps, uneven rock and wet patches. The tops are exposed, so carry a warm layer and waterproofs even if the car park feels sheltered.

Start at Forestry England’s Simonside car park, grid NZ037997. Follow red waymarkers and current forestry signs, keep dogs under control and stay on the ridge path near the crag edges. Take OS Explorer OL42.

Route references: https://www.forestryengland.uk/simonside/the-simonside-ridge-walk and Stuart Hodgson’s mapped Simonside guide: https://hikingphotographer.uk/2021/05/simonside-hills-walk-dove-crag-near-rothbury-one-of-the-best-walks-in-northumberland-for-all-the-family.html

Walk details

Main location
Simonside
Hill
Simonside
Walk type
Circular
Category
Upland / Hill
Distance
4.4 mi (7.0 km)
Est. time
3h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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