Simonside Hills: Rugged Beauty and Panoramic Vistas in Northumberland
Explore the rugged Simonside Hills near Morpeth, where panoramic views, rich wildlife, and ancient legends await atop a distinctive sandstone ridge.
The Simonside Hills, located near Morpeth in Northumberland, offer a rugged and scenic escape with a distinctive sandstone ridge rising to 430 meters. Renowned for sweeping 360-degree views stretching from the Cheviot Hills to the North Sea coast, the area is rich in wildlife including curlews, red grouse, and red squirrels. Popular for hiking, the hills feature marked trails through dense forests and craggy heights, with historical sites like Little Church Rock adding cultural depth.
A brief summary to Simonside Hills
- Morpeth, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as trails include steep and rocky sections, especially near the summit.
- Bring a packed picnic since there are no food outlets or visitor centers on site.
- Start early to enjoy quieter trails and maximize daylight for the full 360-degree views.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife like curlews, red grouse, and red squirrels in the forested areas.
- Check weather forecasts and dress in layers to be prepared for Northumberland’s variable conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Morpeth, the journey to Simonside Hills takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the B6342 and local roads. Free parking is available near the forest entrance, but note there are no designated accessible parking spaces. The narrow roads near the car park require cautious driving.
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Bus
Bus number 416 connects Morpeth to Rothbury in about 45 minutes, where you can access public footpaths leading to Simonside Hills. On Sundays and bank holidays, additional services run from Newcastle and Gateshead to Rothbury. From Rothbury, the hike to the hills is approximately 2.5 miles over varied terrain.
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Walking
For active travelers, walking from Rothbury to Simonside Hills follows well-marked public footpaths covering about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). The terrain includes forest tracks and some steep sections, suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Simonside Hills location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Simonside Hills
Distinctive Landscape and Natural Setting
The Simonside Hills are a striking natural feature on the northern edge of Harwood Forest, overlooking the market town of Rothbury and close to Morpeth. Their sandstone ridge, which reaches approximately 430 meters (about 1400 feet), creates a rugged and craggy profile that dominates the surrounding countryside. This elevated terrain offers dramatic vistas across Northumberland, including panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills to the west and the North Sea coastline to the east. The hills’ unique geological formation and exposed rocky outcrops provide a captivating landscape for visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility.Wildlife and Conservation Significance
Simonside Hills are designated as a Special Area of Conservation, reflecting their ecological importance. The area supports a diverse range of wildlife, including the bubbling calls of curlews, sightings of red grouse darting across the heather, and the presence of mountain bumblebees and striking emperor moths during summer months. The surrounding forested areas are home to elusive red squirrels, adding to the biodiversity that nature enthusiasts can appreciate. The hills’ conservation status underscores ongoing efforts to protect these habitats and maintain the natural balance.Walking Routes and Visitor Experience
Visitors can enjoy several well-marked walking routes, with the popular red route offering a 4.5-mile circular hike that ascends to the summit ridge. This trail includes varied terrain, from dense conifer forests to open gravel tracks and steep stone steps near the summit. Along the way, hikers can explore historical features such as Little Church Rock, believed to have been a site for medieval clandestine preaching. The summit rewards walkers with breathtaking 360-degree views and a sense of accomplishment. The hike typically takes around three hours, depending on pace and stops.Historical and Cultural Context
The Simonside Hills have a rich cultural heritage, with local legends and historical uses adding layers of intrigue. The beacon atop the hills was historically used to warn of Scottish invasions during Tudor times, highlighting the hills’ strategic significance. Little Church Rock offers a glimpse into the area's medieval past, where secret religious gatherings may have taken place. These elements enrich the visitor experience, connecting the natural beauty with Northumberland’s storied history.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
Access to Simonside Hills is free and available 24 hours a day, with parking provided near the forest entrance. While there are no formal visitor centers, toilets, or food outlets on site, picnic areas are available for those who bring their own provisions. The trails are suitable for moderately fit walkers, with some steep sections requiring care. Assistance dogs are welcome, and dogs are allowed throughout the area. Visitors should prepare accordingly for a wilderness experience, as facilities are minimal.Seasonal and Environmental Considerations
The hills can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different ambiance—from vibrant summer wildlife activity to crisp winter panoramas. Weather conditions can vary, so visitors should be prepared for changing elements, including wind and rain. The natural environment encourages mindfulness and a deep connection with the landscape, making Simonside Hills a rewarding destination for those seeking both adventure and peaceful nature escapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady's Well
8.4 km
Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
Morpeth Clock Tower
21.3 km
Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
Warkworth Hermitage
22.8 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Search Northumberland, Things to do in Northumberland
27.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture of Northumberland, the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
Hunkleton stone
30.5 km
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Westmorland Way
31.9 km
Explore Cramlington from Westmorland Way, your convenient bus stop for seamless access to local attractions and amenities.
Hole in The Wall
34.7 km
Historic coastal landmark in Blyth featuring a unique hole framing stunning beach views and easy beach access.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
35.2 km
Uncover the enchanting beauty of Northumberland Coast National Landscape, where rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rich wildlife await your discovery.
Hexham Abbey
35.6 km
Explore Hexham Abbey: A breathtaking historical landmark blending stunning architecture with rich heritage in the heart of Hexham, England.
Beadnell Harbour
36.7 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave
36.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and rich history of St Cuthbert's Cave, a must-visit hiking destination in Northumberland's stunning countryside.
Seaton Delaval Hall
36.9 km
Explore the historic Seaton Delaval Hall, a breathtaking blend of heritage architecture and stunning gardens, perfect for a delightful day out.
Denton Hall Turret - Hadrian's Wall
37.2 km
Explore Denton Hall Turret, a Roman watchtower on Hadrian’s Wall, revealing ancient frontier defense in Newcastle’s historic suburbs.
Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site
37.9 km
Explore the ancient Housesteads Roman Fort, a historical treasure on Hadrian's Wall, where rich heritage meets breathtaking landscapes.
Cessford Castle
38.2 km
Discover the enchanting history and stunning beauty of Cessford Castle, a remarkable Scottish landmark that transports you back to the medieval era.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lordenshaw Hill Fort
3.0 km
Explore Lordenshaw Hill Fort, a captivating 2,000-year-old Iron Age hillfort nestled in Northumberland’s serene National Park landscape.
Cragside Formal Garden
5.7 km
Explore the enchanting three-tiered Victorian Formal Garden at Cragside, a historic estate famed for its innovative heritage and stunning rhododendron displays.
National Trust - Cragside
6.0 km
Discover Cragside, the Victorian inventor’s hydroelectric estate with grand gardens, woodland walks, and family adventures in Northumberland.
Woodhouses Bastle House
6.2 km
Explore Woodhouses Bastle, a fortified 17th-century farmhouse in Northumberland, embodying the resilience of border life and historic defense.
Brinkburn Priory and Manor House
9.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and medieval heritage of Brinkburn Priory, a restored 12th-century Gothic church nestled in Northumberland’s tranquil river valley.
Winter's Gibbet
10.0 km
Discover the haunting history and stunning landscapes at Winter's Gibbet, an iconic landmark in Northumberland's Harwood region.
Harbottle Castle
11.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Harbottle Castle, a 12th-century fortress overlooking the serene River Coquet valley in Northumberland.
The Drake Stone
12.0 km
Discover Northumberland’s colossal Drake Stone, a legendary glacial boulder with panoramic views and rich local lore.
Edlingham Castle
14.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a 14th-century fortified manor house set in tranquil Northumberland countryside, free to visit year-round.
National Trust - Wallington
14.3 km
Explore Wallington’s historic house, vast woodlands, tranquil walled garden, and family-friendly trails in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
Northumberland Zoo
16.6 km
Discover Northumberland Zoo’s family-run wildlife sanctuary with rare species, immersive keeper talks, and scenic rural charm near Morpeth.
Northumberland National Park
16.8 km
Explore England’s northernmost wilderness where ancient history meets wild landscapes and rare wildlife in Northumberland National Park.
Shaftoe crags
17.1 km
Explore the rugged sandstone heights of Shaftoe Crags with panoramic views, historic stones, and timeless Northumberland landscapes.
Bolam Lake Country Park
17.5 km
A tranquil Northumberland haven with accessible lakeside trails, abundant wildlife, and a welcoming visitor centre for all ages and abilities.
Linhope Spout Waterfall
19.7 km
Discover Linhope Spout, a breathtaking 18m waterfall nestled in Northumberland’s Cheviot Hills, perfect for scenic walks, wildlife, and tranquil picnics.
Essential places to dine
The Three Wheat Heads Inn
3.7 km
A warm, traditional Northumberland inn offering hearty local cuisine, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in the charming village of Thropton.
Dobson Restaurant
12.9 km
Experience refined British dining in a grand Georgian setting at Dobson Restaurant, Macdonald Linden Hall, nestled in scenic Northumberland.
The Coach House
14.8 km
Historic British charm and hearty cuisine nestled in the tranquil deer park of Otterburn Hall estate.
The Cook & Barker Inn
16.2 km
A warm, stylish country pub near Morpeth, serving excellent food and offering comfortable rooms in the heart of Northumberland.
The Bosk
17.9 km
Rustic British cuisine and cozy charm in Alnwick’s tranquil countryside, perfect for relaxed dining and special gatherings.
Adam and Eve
21.7 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
21.7 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
The Dirty Bottles
21.8 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
Sonnet Restaurant
21.9 km
A 14-course poetic journey through Northumberland’s finest produce, served in an intimate, literary-inspired Alnwick dining room.
The Treehouse Restaurant
22.3 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
JASPERS BISTRO
24.7 km
A cozy seafood haven in Amble delivering exquisite, locally sourced dishes with personal service and refined charm.
The Old Boathouse
24.9 km
Fresh Northumberland seafood served with stunning coastal views in a charming maritime setting.
Lilly’s Landing
24.9 km
Savor fresh seafood and stunning harbor views at Lilly’s Landing, Amble’s charming coastal restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Bistro 23
25.1 km
Intimate family-run bistro in scenic Alnmouth serving fresh, local seafood and Northumberland specialties with warm hospitality.
The Whittling House
25.1 km
A cosy boutique hotel and acclaimed seafood restaurant in Alnmouth, blending rustic charm with coastal elegance and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury
4.6 km
Discover quality walking apparel at Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury’s trusted destination for outdoor clothing in Northumberland’s scenic market town.
Elements Art & Craft Gallery
4.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at Elements Art & Craft Gallery in the heart of Rothbury, Northumberland.
Otterburn Mill Shop and Café, Otterburn
14.9 km
Historic mill shop and cozy café nestled in Northumberland’s scenic Otterburn, blending outdoor gear, homemade food, and tranquil picnic grounds.
Sanderson Arcade
21.3 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Morpeth blending popular brands with unique local boutiques and a welcoming atmosphere.
White Stuff Morpeth
21.4 km
Discover stylish, quality clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Morpeth, where fashion meets friendly service in a charming market town setting.
Willowburn Retail Park
21.6 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
21.7 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Robinson's
21.8 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
A World Of Difference
21.8 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Marilyn & Melrose
21.9 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
21.9 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Notes of Northumberland
21.9 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
23.3 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
Natural Northumberland
24.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts reflecting Northumberland’s rich heritage at this charming Bellingham boutique.
Raggy Dolls Limited
24.5 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Turks Head
4.4 km
Historic 16th-century coaching inn in Rothbury offering cozy rooms, local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in Northumberland.
The Granby Inn
10.9 km
A welcoming historic village inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and classic pub charm in a tranquil countryside setting.
The Star Inn
11.0 km
Historic 14th-century pub in Harbottle offering cozy rooms, excellent food, and a warm community atmosphere in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
Anglers Arms
11.2 km
A charming four-star country inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
Coast & Country
14.4 km
A tranquil bar and shop nestled in Northumberland’s Percy Wood Golf and Country Club, perfect for relaxing with a drink after outdoor adventures.
Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
15.8 km
A lively Wild West-themed bar and grill in Morpeth offering casual dining, sports entertainment, and a pet-friendly atmosphere within Felmoor Holiday Park.
The Northumberland Arms
16.0 km
Charming country pub and boutique hotel in Felton offering fresh local cuisine, luxury rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Foxes Den
16.0 km
A cozy, dog-friendly micro pub in Felton’s riverside basement, famed for real ales and friendly local charm.
The Beresford Arms
20.0 km
Historic coaching inn turned award-winning pub, restaurant, and B&B offering warm hospitality and countryside charm in Whalton, Northumberland.
The Black & Grey Morpeth
21.1 km
A lively, dog-friendly bar and pub in Morpeth’s historic centre offering vibrant atmosphere, hearty meals, and welcoming service.
Tap & Spile
21.2 km
A cozy traditional pub in Morpeth with a welcoming fire, six real ales, and a lively community atmosphere.
Barluga Morpeth
21.4 km
Modern British dining and vibrant bar in Morpeth’s Sanderson Arcade, offering imaginative cuisine, fine wines, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Bull Morpeth
21.5 km
Historic 19th-century pub in Morpeth with classic British fare, riverside views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Joiners Arms
21.6 km
A welcoming Northumberland pub in Morpeth serving locally sourced, home-style dishes in a cozy, traditional setting.
The Queens Head
21.8 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
