The best walks and hikes around Snitter

There are over 130 hiking trails around Snitter, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Northumberland landscape. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews.

Hiking around Snitter features diverse terrain, including rolling hills, expansive open moorland, and tranquil river valleys, particularly within the Coquetdale area. You'll find everything from gentle slopes to the higher ground of the Cheviot Hills and the prominent Simonside, offering varied challenges and scenic views.

Yes, Snitter offers a good selection of easy trails, with over 45 routes categorized as easy. For a gentle option, consider the Rothbury Village Centre – Rothbury Market Cross loop from Thropton, which is just over 6.5 km and features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for families.

Many of the trails around Snitter are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate circular route is the Simonside and Dove Crag Circular, which is about 8.9 km long and offers excellent views of the Simonside Hills.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can hike to the prominent Simonside Summit for panoramic views, or explore areas with ancient history like the Lordenshaw Cup and Ring Marked Rock. The area also features several beautiful lakes, such as Harbottle Lake and Fontburn Reservoir, which can be incorporated into longer walks.

Northumberland National Park, which surrounds Snitter, is generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead, particularly during nesting seasons or in nature reserves. Always check local signage.

Parking is often available at trailheads or in nearby villages like Rothbury and Thropton, which serve as popular starting points for many routes. For example, routes like the Sharp's Folly – Rothbury Village Centre loop from Thropton typically have parking options in or around Thropton.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse landscapes of Northumberland National Park are beautiful year-round, with autumn bringing vibrant colors and winter offering crisp, quiet walks, though conditions can be more challenging.

The nearby town of Rothbury is a good hub for amenities, including pubs and cafes, making it an ideal stop before or after a hike. Many routes, such as the Tosson Lime Kiln – Rothbury War Memorial loop from Thropton, pass close to or through villages where refreshments can be found.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from elevated points like Simonside, the tranquility of the moorland, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels. The well-maintained paths and natural beauty are often highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are 16 difficult routes and 74 moderate routes. The Tosson Hill and Simonside Loop Trail is a moderate 15.8 km path that traverses open moorland and provides extensive views, offering a more demanding experience.