The best walks and hikes around Ilderton
4.5
(496)
3,387
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking trails around Ilderton are primarily located within the Northumberland National Park, offering diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The region features prominent hills such as The Cheviot, the highest point in the park, and Hedgehope Hill. Hikers can explore historical sites like Yeavering Bell, an Iron Age hillfort, and traverse the expansive, wild terrain of the Cheviots, including the scenic Harthope Valley. The area provides a range of paths from accessible valley routes to challenging ascents.
Best hiking trails around…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.3
(49)
449
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(39)
265
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.9
(7)
54
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(6)
27
hikers
7.36km
01:58
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.9
(7)
12
hikers
13.9km
04:46
740m
740m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The climb up to the trig pointed top of Hedgehope from the direction of The Cheviot, is not too bad and was a real highlight of my walking day. The summit is one of the best in the Cheviots — a cairned shelter from the wind, big skies, a sense of space, and on a clear day you can pick out the coastline, the Cheviot Hills rolling away into Scotland, and even the Lake District in the distance. The route is a bit boggy underfoot, so try and pick a dry period if possible.
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Ideally situated refuge hut. People have left helpful items like hand warmers, tea bags, plasters & saline flushes
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Harthope Valley is treacherous, there is lots of stone stepping across the rivers, one area of the path has completely dissappeared and it's all very boggy. We walked up to The Cheviot backwards and had to turn back due to holes everywhere and couldn't see a clear path on where to go, there is no set path up Cairn hill and very boggy.
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The paved path up to the Cheviot.
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Highest mountain in Northumberland national park, a decent path runs through to the summit as its a complete bog fest and there's not really any views as its a large plateau, but the views on the way back down are beautiful.
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Second highest mountain in Northumberland national park, fantastic views from the summit.
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This area was like a swamp on the day I rode, it is easy enough to ride on the slab stones. Do not go off them though as you will sink into a very boggy surface and will be in a mess. The weather was barren at Cairn Hill summit which is 777mtrs
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find around Ilderton?
Ilderton, situated within Northumberland National Park, offers a diverse range of hiking trails. You'll find everything from accessible valley routes to challenging mountain ascents. There are 33 routes in total, with 3 easy, 25 moderate, and 5 difficult options, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Ilderton?
Yes, Ilderton has several trails suitable for families. The Harthope Valley & Middleton Old Town loop is a moderate 7.4 km route with minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for a shorter, more accessible walk. The Harthope Valley itself is known for its accessible paths.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking near Ilderton?
The Ilderton area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore prominent peaks like The Cheviot Summit, the highest point in Northumberland National Park, or enjoy the expansive views from Cairn Hill and Hedgehope Hill Summit. Historical highlights include the Iron Age hillfort at Yeavering Bell, where wild goats can often be spotted, and Ros Castle Hill Fort. Don't miss Linhope Spout Waterfall for a picturesque natural monument.
Are there any circular hiking routes available around Ilderton?
Yes, many of the trails around Ilderton are circular, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. A popular option is the Cairn Hill & The Cheviot loop from Ilderton, a challenging 21.2 km route through wild landscapes. For a moderate experience, consider The Cheviot & Harthope Valley loop near Wooler.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ilderton?
While specific weather patterns vary, the wild and empty landscapes of the Cheviots are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the landscape. For challenging ascents, checking local weather forecasts is always recommended, especially for higher elevations like The Cheviot, which can be exposed.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Ilderton?
The hiking experience in Ilderton is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 245 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the sense of remoteness, the spectacular views from peaks like The Cheviot and Cairn Hill, and the diverse terrain that ranges from accessible valley paths to challenging mountain routes.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers in the Ilderton area?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Ilderton offers several demanding routes. The The Cheviot & Hedgehope Hill from Langleeford is a difficult 15.5 km trail ascending two of the region's highest hills. Another strenuous option is the Cairn Hill & The Cheviot loop from Ilderton, which covers 21.2 km with significant elevation gain.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Ilderton?
Many trails in Northumberland National Park are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep dogs on a lead where required, and clean up after them. Specific regulations may apply to certain areas, so check local signage.
Are there any trails that offer views of the broader Cheviots landscape?
Many trails provide stunning views of the expansive Cheviots. For instance, the The Cheviot loop from Ilderton offers panoramic vistas. Cairn Hill, at 2,549 feet, is particularly noted for its spectacular views over the wild and expansive Cheviots, with Cushat Law and Bloodybush Edge visible in the distance.
How long do hikes typically take around Ilderton?
Hiking durations vary significantly based on the trail's difficulty and length. Easy paths can take around 2 hours, while moderate hikes might last up to 5 hours. More challenging routes, such as the Cairn Hill & The Cheviot loop from Ilderton, can take over 7 hours to complete.
What kind of terrain should I expect on Ilderton's hiking trails?
The terrain around Ilderton is varied, reflecting its location within Northumberland National Park. You'll encounter everything from accessible paths in valleys like Harthope Valley to rugged, exposed mountain trails leading to summits like The Cheviot. Some higher routes, such as the final section to The Cheviot Summit, feature millstone-slabbed pathways. Sure-footedness and sturdy footwear are recommended for more challenging routes.
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