Our top 5 Cheviot walks

The Cheviots are a wild range of rounded hills and valleys located in the Northumberland National Park near to the Scottish border. Walking in this stunning area of natural beauty is a popular pastime that the whole family will enjoy. Here are our top 5 Cheviot walks.

1. Yeavering Bell

This easy walking route from Yeavering Bell is just 3.5 miles long so ideal for beginners and families. The walk takes you around the Hill of the Goats on a gentle walk and eventually leads you on a fairly easy ascent to the top where you are likely to see feral goats grazing nearby. At the top of the hill are the remnants of a Stone Age hill fort, the largest in Northumberland. The view from the top of the hill is stunning, especially on a clear day.

2. Humbleton Hill

At Humbleton Hill you’ll find another ancient hill fort that was built around 300BC and was the scene of a battle between the Scots and the English in 1402. This fairly moderate 6 mile walk takes you on a circular route offering great views of the surrounding area.

3. The Cheviot Route

The route to the highest point in Northumberland, The Cheviot Route, actually forms part the famous 268 mile long Pennine Way and is a must for any serious walkers in the area. This route is 12.5 miles long and pretty tough, beginning at Harthorpe Valley, taking in the 2 summits of Cold Law and Broadhope Hill before heading to the top of The Cheviot and then returning via Cairn Hill. The route can be a little boggy so make sure you’re wearing proper footwear.

4. Kirk Yetholm to Wooler

This route is part of St Cuthbert’s Way, a 62.5 mile long-distance cross border walking route leading from Melrose in the Scottish Borders to the Northumberland Coast. Beginning at the village of Kirk Yetholm you follow various footpaths and roads taking in spectacular scenery before descending into the delightful town of Wooler. The route is a challenge at around 12 miles but is a favourite amongst walkers in the area.

While in the Wooler area, it'd be a shame not to explore out towards Bamburgh for some of Britain's best views too.

5. Kirknewton Hillfort Trail

This trail is 3 miles long and takes in ancient hill forts and an abundance of wildlife. Don’t forget to have a look inside St Gregory’s Church before you set off. After exploring the church you’ll walk a up to West Hill where you’ll see remains of an Iron Age hillfort built over 2000 years ago. Keep an eye out for goats and hares playing in the long grass as well as kestrels, skylarks and buzzards flying high above the hills.

Equipment and Safety

When going on a walking holiday, it is a good idea to take some essential equipment to ensure everyone’s safety. Be sure to take suitable footwear that is sturdy and waterproof to withstand any type of terrain you may cross and take plasters just in case of blisters. Make sure you also take a map and compass and drink plenty of fluids as you walk. No matter what the weather is like, dehydration will rapidly put an end to what should be an enjoyable walk. Pay particular attention to young children who may tire easily. Take waterproof clothing in case it should rain and ideally wear light layers of clothing so you can quickly cool down or warm up. It is also a good idea to take some small snacks with you to keep your energy up and to keep younger children happy!

Other Cheviot Hills attractions

The Cheviot Hills have plenty of great family attractions to enjoy in and around the area. Take a visit to Chillingham Castle just a short distance from the Scottish border-it’s considered the UK’s most haunted castle! An excellent place visit during your trip is St Cuthbert’s Cave in Belford. This impressive cave is an overhanging outcrop held up by a pillar of stone and is associated with Saint Cuthbert, who was a 17th Century Anglo-Saxon bishop and is thought to have lived in the cave.

The Cheviot Hills are a place of outstanding natural beauty with plenty of inspiring walking routes to suit everybody and the region provides some great attractions and camping locations.