The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Nunnykirk

The area around Nunnykirk, within the Northumberland National Park, offers several popular peaks and viewpoints. Simonside Summit is a prominent 429m (1400ft) peak known for its rugged ridge and sensational views of the Cheviot Hills and the Northumbrian coastline. Nearby, the View from Dove Crag, part of the Simonside Hills, provides spellbinding views over Northumberland. Other notable spots include Tosson Hill Trig Point and Shaftoe Crags Trig Point, both offering extensive panoramic views.

The terrain around Nunnykirk, particularly within the Northumberland National Park, is diverse. You'll encounter moorlands, ancient woodlands, and rugged ridges. Peaks like Simonside are around 429m (1400ft), while the highest point in the wider Northumberland National Park, The Cheviot, reaches 815m (2,674ft). Hikes can range from moderate ascents to challenging climbs, often with boggy sections, especially on higher ground, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options suitable for families around Nunnykirk. For example, the guide for Easy hikes around Nunnykirk lists routes like the 'Lordenshaws Car Park – Dove Crag summit loop from Lordenshaws' which is an easy 3.5km walk. Another easy option is the 'Church Rock from Simonside Car Park' route, offering a pleasant 5.6km walk within the Northumberland National Park.

Beyond exploring the peaks themselves, the area around Nunnykirk offers excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including challenging circular routes like 'Simonside and Dove Crag Circular'. There are also dedicated running trails, such as the 'Simonside Hills loop from Lordenshaws', which is a difficult 19km route.

The Northumberland National Park, where Nunnykirk's peaks are located, can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary. Spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for hiking and enjoying the views. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape. Winter can be challenging with colder temperatures and potentially boggy or icy conditions on higher ground, but also offers stark, dramatic scenery. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The region around Nunnykirk is rich in history. While hiking, you might encounter historical features like the Shaftoe Crags Trig Point, which is an Ordnance Survey triangulation pillar installed in 1947, marking the highest point on the moorland. Further afield, within the wider Northumberland area, Yeavering Bell features the largest Iron Age hillfort in the region with remnants of over 100 roundhouses, offering panoramic views from its summit.

While Nunnykirk itself is a parish area, access to the wider Northumberland National Park and its peaks, such as Simonside and The Cheviot, often requires a combination of public transport and personal travel. Public transport options to specific trailheads can be limited, so planning ahead is essential. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles to reach car parks near popular starting points like Lordenshaws for the Simonside Hills.

Given the diverse terrain and potential for boggy conditions, especially on peaks like Simonside, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy waterproof hiking boots. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to changing weather, as conditions can shift quickly. A waterproof outer layer, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS), sufficient water and snacks, and a first-aid kit are also essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

Many trails within the Northumberland National Park are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code, which advises keeping dogs on a lead around farm animals and during nesting seasons. Specific restrictions may apply in certain nature reserves or protected areas, so check local signage.

Beyond the summits, the region around Nunnykirk is characterized by wild landscapes and dramatic scenery. You'll find extensive moorlands, ancient woodlands, and diverse wildlife. The View from Dove Crag, for instance, is a natural monument formed by glacial activity 15,000 years ago. The Northumberland National Park is also known for its dark skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.

Nunnykirk is a parish area, and while it may have limited direct amenities, the nearby town of Rothbury serves as a good base for visitors. Rothbury offers a selection of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options where you can refuel and relax after your hikes. It's advisable to plan your route to pass through or near these towns if you intend to stop for refreshments.