The best walks and hikes around Hesleyhurst

Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. However, it's important to keep them on a lead, especially on the open moorland of the Simonside Hills during bird nesting season (spring and early summer) and whenever livestock are present. The region's numerous woodland and riverside paths offer excellent opportunities for you and your canine companion to explore.

The walk to Hareshaw Linn waterfall, starting near Bellingham, is a fantastic choice for families. This popular 3-mile (5 km) round trip follows a burn through a beautiful woodland, crossing several picturesque bridges before reaching the waterfall. The path is well-maintained and offers a sense of adventure for all ages.

The most convenient place to park is the Simonside Car Park, which is a well-regarded starting point for many routes into the hills. Be aware that it's a popular spot and can fill up quickly on weekends and bank holidays. The access roads are narrow, so driving with caution is advised.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For a challenging day out, the Sharp's Folly – Rothbury Village Centre loop from Low Hesleyhurst is a great option. This nearly 20 km hike takes you through varied terrain and offers rewarding views, showcasing the best of the local landscape before returning you to your starting area.

For a shorter, more accessible hike, consider the Lordenshaws Car Park – View from Dove Crag loop from Rothbury. It's a relatively short walk at just over 3.5 km and provides fantastic views from Dove Crag without requiring a strenuous climb, making it perfect for a quick outing or for those new to hiking in the area.

The region is rich in wildlife. On the heather-clad moorlands of the Simonside Hills, you might spot red grouse and curlews. The woodlands, such as those at Hareshaw Linn and around Kielder Forest, are home to red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers, and dippers. If you're lucky, you may also see roe deer, especially during quieter times of the day.

Absolutely. The area around Lordenshaws, at the foot of the Simonside Hills, is rich in history. You can find well-preserved prehistoric rock carvings (cup and ring marks) and the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. Many walking trails pass directly through this archaeologically significant landscape, blending natural beauty with ancient history.

The trails in the Simonside Hills are varied. You'll find a mix of well-defined paths, some of which are paved with stone slabs across boggy sections, and more rugged, steep tracks. The landscape is characterized by craggy sandstone outcrops and heather moorland. Good hiking boots are essential as the ground can be uneven and wet in places.

Public transport options to the direct trailheads are limited due to the rural nature of the area. The nearest towns with some bus services are Rothbury and Bellingham. From there, you would likely need a taxi to reach specific car parks like Simonside or Hareshaw Linn. For larger hubs like Kielder Water & Forest Park, it's best to check their official website for seasonal transport options.

Most of the upland trails around Hesleyhurst and the Simonside Hills involve steep, uneven terrain and are not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. For more accessible options, consider the Lakeside Way at Kielder Water & Forest Park, which has many flat, surfaced sections perfect for a gentle stroll or roll with beautiful views of the water.

The trails around Hesleyhurst are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the dramatic 360-degree views from the summits of the Simonside Hills, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the mix of challenging climbs and gentle riverside walks. The well-preserved historical features, like the Lordenshaws rock carvings, are also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, Kielder Water & Forest Park is a fantastic destination for a day trip, located a scenic 30-45 minute drive away. It offers a huge variety of activities beyond hiking, including miles of cycling trails, watersports on the reservoir, and some of the best stargazing in the UK at the Kielder Observatory. For detailed visitor information, you can check the official Kielder website.