Cheviot Hills – 40 years as an AONB

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Cheviot Hills – 40 years as an AONB by Iain Thomas

The upland scenery of the Cheviot massif is second to none with the Cheviot itself rising to 815m (2,674ft).

It is here that you can explore some of the best-preserved prehistoric hillforts in Britain. Yeavering Bell, Brough Law and Humbleton Hill are examples of place names, which evoke a time long gone.

The Cheviots also provide some of the best upland stretches for walking along The Pennine Way, Britain’s best known National Trail and St Cuthbert’s Way. The walks offer a range of self-guided leaflets for you to use. OS `Explorer` Map No. OL16 `The Cheviot Hills`or the Harvey `Superwalker` Cheviot Hills map are useful when you are planning your walk in this area.

One of the most awe-inspiring valleys in the Cheviot Hills is College Valley, some also say that it is also the most unspoilt. It is a tranquil and open valley, which provides walking routes to the Cheviot summit, the Schill, Red Cribs and Pennine Way.

There are four fantastic Hillfort Heritage Trails that have been created to allow you to explore the rich archaeology in this valley. Many of these trails also provide outstanding views of the College Valley. `A Beautiful Highland Place` is available from all National Park Centres or by mail order for ฃ2.00.

These walks are strenuous and go through areas where the weather can change quickly. You should wear good walking boots and take warm waterproof clothing with you. You should always let someone know which route you plan to take, as mobile phone may not work in the hills.

The College Valley is privately owned, but allows about 12 cars a day up the valley, except from mid-April to end of May which is lambing time. Permits are free and can be obtained from:

Sale & Partners, Estate Agents,
18-20 Glendale Road,
Wooler NE71 6DN

Harthope Valley is a pretty valley, particularly in autumn when bracken, the dominant vegetation turns russet and gold. The burn that runs along the bottom of the valley is fringed with alder woodland with wide grassy area alongside, making it an ideal place on your walk for a picnic spot.

Fine walks can be had up onto Cheviot (815m) and Hedgehope (714m) and into such places with wonderful names like Happy Valley and Skirl Naked!

If you like bird watching, then this valley provides a suitable habitat to spy common sandpiper, wheatear, whinchat and dipper amongst others.

It is recommended that you contact the National Park Centre, Ingram or Tourist Information Centre in The Cheviot Centre, Wooler.

With it’s high rolling hills, numerous ancient monuments and attractive river setting, Breamish Valley is one of the most popular locations for visitors. It is superb walking country and the sheltered riverside grassland is perfect for informal parking and picnicking.

There are walks and trails to suit most interests. The Walk through Time is perfect if you want to explore the hills and discover the magic and mystery of ancient settlements. It also offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Breamish Valley more than 2000 years ago.

It is recommended you contact National Park Centre, Ingram for information on planning your walk.

Iain Thomas writes articles on travel leisure and tourism in the UK. He has a particular interest in walking and the national parks. He runs a website about UK Walking where you can find 1000's of walk routes and places to stay nearby.

Article Source: Cheviot Hills – 40 years as an AONB