The 6 Most Amazing Peaks around Whittingham

The region around Whittingham, primarily within the Northumberland National Park, offers several notable peaks. The Cheviot is the highest point in Northumberland, providing a true wilderness experience. Other significant peaks include Hedgehope Hill, known for its challenging routes and spectacular scenery, and Simonside Summit, which offers sensational views towards the Cheviot Hills and the Northumbrian coastline. For a mix of history and views, Yeavering Bell features an Iron Age hillfort. Additionally, komoot users enjoy Cochrane Pike for its views over empty moorland and Long Crag Summit, a recognized natural monument.

For a challenging hike, The Cheviot is the highest peak and offers a rewarding climb, often tackled as part of the Pennine Way. Hedgehope Hill is another strenuous option, frequently combined with The Cheviot in a horseshoe walk from the Harthope Valley. The Breamish Valley hills also provide invigorating walks. Komoot highlights like Cochrane Pike and Long Crag Summit are also categorized as challenging climbs.

Yes, several peaks and areas boast rich history. Yeavering Bell is home to the largest Iron Age hillfort in the region, with visible remains of over 100 roundhouses. The Breamish Valley Hills are archaeologically significant, containing numerous prehistoric hillforts, Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements, and ancient burial mounds. Additionally, Brizlee Tower, though a folly, is a Grade 1 listed historical viewpoint built in the 18th century.

The peaks around Whittingham offer expansive and diverse views. From The Cheviot, on a clear day, you can see as far as the Lake District and even Edinburgh. Hedgehope Hill provides spectacular scenery, particularly over the Breamish Valley. Simonside Summit offers sensational views of the Cheviot Hills to the north and the Northumbrian coastline to the east. Cochrane Pike provides fabulous views over empty moorland and towards the coast.

While many peaks offer challenging climbs, the Breamish Valley Hills provide invigorating walks that can be adapted for various fitness levels, making it an ideal location for family outings. The valley also features the picturesque Linhope Spout waterfall and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife spotting. When planning, look for shorter, less steep routes or trails within the valley for a more family-friendly experience.

The natural environment around Whittingham's peaks is rich in wildlife. Near Cochrane Pike, you might hear or spot birds such as curlew, oyster catcher, skylark, and meadow pipit, as well as buzzards and kestrels. Yeavering Bell is notably home to a herd of wild goats. The entire Northumberland National Park is a haven for diverse species, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting throughout the year.

Yes, there are several mountain biking routes in the vicinity. You can explore trails like the 'Alwinton & Windy Gyle loop from Ingram' (difficult, 62.7 km) or the 'Thrunton Whittingham Trail – Forest Gravel Path loop from Wandy Bridge' (moderate, 24.2 km). For more options, check out the MTB Trails around Whittingham guide.

For hikers, there are various trails available. A popular option is the 'Coe Crag and Long Crag Circular Trail' (moderate, 13.8 km). Other routes include those around Thrunton Wood, such as the 'View of Thrunton Wood – View from Top Crag loop from Thrunton Trout Fishery' (moderate, 12.2 km). You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Whittingham guide.

The highest peak in the Whittingham area, and indeed in all of Northumberland and within the Northumberland National Park, is The Cheviot, standing at 815 meters (2,674 ft).

Beyond the peaks themselves, there are unique features to discover. North of The Cheviot summit, in the peat bogs, lie the poignant remains of a crashed B-17 bomber from World War II. The Breamish Valley is home to the picturesque Linhope Spout waterfall. Additionally, Long Crag Summit is recognized as a natural monument on the Definitive List for Northumberland.

The best time to visit the mountain peaks around Whittingham is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and days are longer. This period offers better visibility for panoramic views and more comfortable hiking conditions. Winter can bring challenging conditions, including snow and ice, especially on higher peaks like The Cheviot, requiring appropriate gear and experience.

Yes, the area provides several running trails. You can try the 'View from Top Crag – Steep Hill in Thrunton Woods loop from Coeburn' (moderate, 13.7 km) or the 'Thrunton Wood loop from Whittingham' (moderate, 6.5 km). For more running routes, refer to the Running Trails around Whittingham guide.