4.5/5)The Simonside Hills lie within Northumberland National Park on the northern-most edge of Harwood forest and have beckoned walkers for years because of their wild and rugged beauty. The range dominates the skyline forming a dramatic southern backdrop to the middle reaches of the River Coquet. The climb up the hills is rewarded with the whole panorama of the Cheviots to the north and from the top of Simonside itself the whole Northumbrian coastline is revealed. Waymarked walking routes explore both forest and hill. They range from just one mile in length (with nothing too steep) to over four miles with a climb up to 430 metres.
The forest isn't just for walkers. Mountain bikers and horse riders are also welcome to ride the forest roads and tracks of this magical place. Please note, unsurfaced tracks on the open moorland at the summit of Simonside are for walkers only.
How to get there:
Simonside is part of Rothbury. Great Tosson Village and Rothbury are the nearest towns or villages.
By public Transport
Bus number 416 connects Rothbury with Morpeth (both mainline rail station and buses to Newcastle).On Sundays and Bank Holidays, Northumbria buses run an additional service direct from Newcastle and Gateshead to Rothbury (number 508). Simonside is two miles to the south of Rothbury.To access the Hills on foot, follow the public footpaths from Rothbury via Whitton and Hillhead Lane, a distance of 2.5 miles (4km).
By car
Signposted from the B6342 (Rothbury to Scot's Gap road)
OS Grid Reference: NZ 037 997
For details of public transport visit http://www.transportdirect.info
Start your visit from:
Simonside Car ParkPlease tell us about your visit
Please email us at kieldercastle@forestry.gsi.gov.uk if you have an enquiry or would like a reply to your comments.
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