The 11 Most Amazing Peaks around Rothbury

The primary elevated features around Rothbury are found within the Simonside Hills. While not towering mountains, these hills offer distinctive craggy sandstone outcrops and heather moorland. Notable points include Simonside Summit, which provides sensational views, and Tosson Hill, the highest point in the range at 440 meters (1,444 ft).

From the summits within the Simonside Hills, such as Simonside Summit and Tosson Hill, you can enjoy expansive 360-degree views. These vistas often include the Cheviot Hills to the north and the Northumbrian coastline to the east on clear days. View from Dove Crag also offers spellbinding views over Northumberland.

Yes, the Simonside Hills are known for their sandstone crags and unique rock formations, which offer single-pitch rock climbing opportunities. Simonside Crag is a notable climbing spot, featuring stone steps for ascent and rewarding views.

The Simonside Hills are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation, teeming with diverse wildlife. You might spot red grouse, curlews, adders, wild goats, mountain bumblebees, and even red squirrels in the surrounding forests.

The Simonside Hills hold significant historical and archaeological value. You can find ancient cairns on the summits, a Bronze Age cemetery on the lower slopes, and the nearby Lordenshaws Iron Age hillfort, which dates back 2,000 years. A beacon on Simonside was historically used to warn of Scottish invasions during Tudor times.

The Simonside Hills offer a range of walking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. The walk over the Simonside Hills is one of the most popular in Northumberland. You can find routes that take you over Long Crag Summit, offering exposed rocky tracks and rewarding views.

Yes, the Simonside Hills provide a variety of walking opportunities suitable for families, ranging from easy strolls along well-developed paths to more moderate routes. Many trails offer beautiful scenery without being overly strenuous, allowing families to enjoy the natural beauty together.

The Simonside Hills can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time for hiking is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the moorland heather is in bloom. Be aware that some areas can be very boggy, especially after rain, so good waterproof footwear is recommended regardless of the season.

Beyond hiking, the Rothbury area offers excellent opportunities for cycling. You can explore various routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and touring. For example, there are MTB Trails around Rothbury, Road Cycling Routes around Rothbury, and Cycling routes around Rothbury that take you through the scenic landscape.

There are car parks available closer to the Simonside Hills ridge, making it convenient to access the trails. You can also start your walk directly from Rothbury, which offers additional parking options within the village.

The Simonside Hills are rich in local folklore, with many stories of 'fairy folk' and 'little people.' Tales of the Duergar, mystical beings associated with the crags and caverns, are particularly prominent in the area, adding a touch of magic to your visit.

The terrain in the Simonside Hills varies from well-developed paths to exposed rocky tracks and heather moorland. While some routes are easy strolls, others can be more challenging, especially with steep ascents to summits like Cochrane Pike. Be prepared for potentially boggy conditions, particularly on the higher ground.