The best gravel rides around Hepple

There are over 10 gravel bike trails available around Hepple, offering a variety of experiences for riders. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.

The terrain around Hepple is diverse and rugged, characteristic of the Northumberland National Park. You can expect a mix of heathland, woodlands, and river valleys within Coquetdale. Routes often feature rolling hills, moorlands, and extensive forestry roads, with some leading towards the more challenging Cheviot Hills. The region's rewilding efforts at Hepple Wilds also contribute to a unique natural landscape.

Yes, Hepple offers gravel biking options for various skill levels. While the majority of routes are classified as difficult, there are also several moderate trails available. For example, the Descent Toward Harwood – View of Northumberland Forest loop from Harwood is a moderate 16.9-mile path, and the Whitefield Trail – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Whitton and Tosson is another moderate option.

Many gravel routes offer stunning natural features and viewpoints. You can experience the diverse habitats of the Hepple Wilds, including ancient juniper patches and rewilded landscapes. Notable viewpoints include Simonside Summit, which offers sensational views of the Cheviot Hills and the Northumbrian coastline. Other highlights include Harbottle Lake and Fontburn Reservoir.

Absolutely. Hepple is known for its challenging routes. A prime example is the Simonside Car Park – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Whitton and Tosson, a difficult 21.3-mile trail with significant elevation gain, offering expansive views across the Simonside Hills. Another challenging option is the Rothbury Village Centre – Winter's Gibbet loop from Rothbury, which covers over 28 miles with considerable climbing.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes around Hepple are designed as loops. For instance, the Simonside Car Park – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Whitton and Tosson and the Descent Toward Harwood – View of Northumberland Forest loop from Harwood are popular circular options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The Northumberland National Park, including the Hepple area, can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking with milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summers are generally good, but be prepared for potential heat. Winters can be challenging due to colder weather and potentially muddy or icy conditions on some trails, especially in higher elevations or after heavy rain.

While many routes around Hepple are moderate to difficult, the broader Northumberland National Park offers a range of trails. For family-friendly options, look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. The Breamish Valley, for example, offers more tranquil gravel riding through picturesque countryside, which might be suitable for families.

Specific parking information for each route can often be found on individual tour pages. For example, the Simonside Car Park – Viewpoint on Simonside Hills loop from Whitton and Tosson suggests starting from Simonside Car Park. The nearby town of Rothbury also serves as a base for explorations and typically has parking facilities.

Beyond gravel biking, Hepple and the surrounding Northumberland National Park offer a wealth of outdoor activities. You can explore the Hepple Wilds rewilding project through guided nature walks, observing diverse flora and fauna. The park is also excellent for hiking, with peaks like Simonside Summit. Nearby attractions include Cragside House, Gardens and Estate, and the region is part of Europe's largest dark sky park, perfect for stargazing.

Yes, the region is home to the Sandstone Way, a 120-mile (193km) off-road route that utilizes a mix of public rights of way, unclassified county roads, and quiet roads. While not directly starting in Hepple, it showcases the region's diverse landscapes and is suitable for gravel bikes, offering a multi-day adventure through Northumberland's history and natural beauty. You can find more information about it on the Northumberland National Park website: The Sandstone Way.