The Cheviot is the highest mountain in Northumberland (815m). It is part of a high generally featureless plateau, typical of much of the area. The summit has fortunately been partially paved on its upper slopes, a benefit of being on the Pennine Way. The return is via the Harthope Valley or a more arduous crossing to Hedgehope Hill.
Langleeford is a long lonely valley only broken by a few farms. However it leads in to the heart of the Harthope Valley which is ringed by a horseshoe of mountains including the Cheviot and Hedgehope Hill. The road finishes at an open car park at Langleeford. I headed for Cheviot first. It is a steady climb 3 mile climb on a good path. The featureless Scald Hill marks the half way mark. From here the climb steepens before meeting a ladder stile and the paved path leading to the summit.
The summit of the Cheviot used to be a horrific place, a vast peat bog making for a muddy finish to the walk. Now a paved path crosses the summit plateau, a legacy of the Pennine Way which also visits the highest point. It is now much more pleasant although the views are a little limited due to the flatness around the top. A little further on they improve at Cairn Hill, a large Cairn with good views in to the heart of rural Northumberland.
After a steep descent south to a col at 583m there is a choice of routes. The easiest is to drop in to the pleasant upper reaches of Harthope Burn. From here the route meanders alongside the stream towards Langleeford. Alternatively climb south east out of the col on an intermittent path for a two and a half yomp through peat hags to the fine viewpoint of Hedgehope Hill (a deleted Marilyn). However be aware the going is very tough particularly after any rain. The descent back to the car park is initially steep but straightforward after what has come before.
The whole area west of Wooler is ripe for exploration. However it is important to look for good paths and tracks. Successful planning and navigation skills will make this area so much more enjoyable to explore.
The crossing from Cheviot to Hedgehope Hill is why any attempt to accurately time a walk in the hills is pointless. The underfoot terrain makes a straight line impossible, adding much time (and effort), Any calculation (such as Naismiths) become redundant. Just be aware the 2 and half miles of hags will take double the expected time.
The sketch map shows both routes. However the GPX file follows the longer route over Hedgehope Hill as do the walk details (miles, heigh climbed). The walk is 8 1/2 miles if you take the valley return down Harthope Burn.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Δ
