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- 3rd Jul 2026
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Inspired by Kate Middleton completing the Three Peaks Challenge? Climb Northumberland’s highest peak
If Kate Middleton smashing the Three Peaks Challenge has left you feeling inspired, why not set your sights a little closer to home? Northumberland has its own iconic summit just waiting to be conquered, and you don’t need a private jet or a security detail to tackle it.
Introducing The Cheviot, the highest point in Northumberland and the crowning peak of the entire Cheviot Hills range. Tucked away near the Anglo-Scottish border, this brooding giant is the eroded stump of an extinct volcano that last erupted 390 million years ago, so you’re not just going for a walk; you’re standing on a piece of prehistoric drama.
Are you up for the challenge this spring/summer?
THE DETAILS
Distance: 9.5 miles
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Challenge: Challenging
Best time to go: Late spring to early autumn
Parking: Car park near Hawsen Burn, Wooler NE71 6RG
THE WALK
Starting in the Harthope Valley, this circular route takes you through some of Northumberland’s wildest upland scenery. Key highlights include ascending Scald Hill, reaching The Cheviot summit, then continuing on to Cairn Hill, Coomb Fell, and Hedgehope Hill. The trail involves steep climbs and descents, with peat hags, fences, and stiles to navigate along the way, so follow the fence lines, waymarked paths, and marker posts to guide you through crags, woods, and bridges.
The summit itself is a broad, flat plateau with a trig point and a stone-flagged millstone path, put there to protect the fragile peat bogs beneath your feet. On exceptionally clear days, the views can stretch as far as the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, and even Edinburgh.
WHY WE LOVE IT
There’s something deeply satisfying about standing on the roof of Northumberland, knowing every step to get there was earned. The Cheviot is remote, boggy, and exposed, definitely not for the fainthearted, but that’s exactly what makes reaching the summit feel so rewarding. For many walkers, it’s the ultimate way to reset, test themselves physically, and reconnect with the wild landscapes right on our doorstep.
Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, ticking off a personal bucket-list challenge, or just fancy bragging rights over your walking group, The Cheviot proves you don’t need to travel far for a proper adventure. Kate might have completed Three Peaks in one day, but conquering our own volcanic giant in one day feels just as worthy of a celebration at the end.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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