The 10 Most Amazing Peaks around Snitter

While Snitter itself doesn't have distinct peaks, it's a gateway to the majestic Cheviot Hills. The most prominent peaks include The Cheviot, the highest point in Northumberland, and Hedgehope Hill, the second highest. Closer to Snitter, Simonside Summit is a popular choice, offering rugged ridges and expansive views.

The Cheviot, at 815 meters (2,674 feet), is the highest point in the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland. It offers extensive panoramic views that can stretch to the Lake District and Edinburgh on a clear day. Its wild upland scenery and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the county's highest point are significant draws. You can also find remains of a crashed B-17 bomber from World War II north of the summit, adding a historical dimension.

From Simonside Summit, you can expect sensational 360-degree views, including the Cheviot Hills to the north and the Northumbrian coastline to the east. Simonside Crag also offers impressive vistas towards the sea and across the Cheviot range on a clear day. Further along, the View from Dove Crag provides spellbinding views over Northumberland, carved by ice 15,000 years ago.

Yes, the Cheviot Hills offer challenging routes. Hiking to The Cheviot itself is a rewarding challenge, often involving sweeping moorlands and dramatic ridges. Hedgehope Hill also provides a challenging climb. For those seeking more rugged terrain, Cochrane Pike and Long Crag Summit are known for exposed, rocky tracks that can be difficult, especially after rain.

While some peaks are challenging, there are easier options. For instance, the route up Simonside Crag from the east features stone steps, making it more accessible. For general easy hikes in the area, you can explore routes like the 'Church Rock from Simonside Car Park' or 'Simonside Car Park loop from Whitton and Tosson' found in the Easy hikes around Snitter guide.

The Cheviot Hills are rich in diverse wildlife. Around Simonside, you might spot curlew, red grouse, wild goats, and even red squirrels in the forests below. On the open moorlands, especially around peaks like Cochrane Pike, listen for birds such as oyster catcher, skylark, and meadow pipit, and keep an eye out for buzzards and kestrels.

The region offers several historical points of interest. Near The Cheviot's summit, you can find remains of a crashed B-17 bomber from World War II. The Simonside area is particularly rich in history, boasting prehistoric rock art, Bronze Age burial cairns, and an Iron Age hill fort at Lordenshaw, adding cultural depth to your hike.

The Cheviot Hills are beautiful year-round, but conditions can change rapidly. Spring and summer offer generally milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for enjoying the sweeping moorlands. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time, as conditions can change quickly, especially on higher peaks. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potential hazards.

Specific parking information for individual trailheads is best found in detailed route descriptions. However, areas like Simonside often have designated car parks that serve as starting points for various hikes into the hills. It's advisable to check local resources or specific route guides for precise parking locations.

Beyond hiking, the area around Snitter and the Cheviot Hills offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent gravel biking routes, such as those detailed in the Gravel biking around Snitter guide, or explore general cycling tours, like those in the Cycling around Snitter guide. The region is also popular for birdwatching.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from peaks like Simonside Summit, often describing them as 'sensational' and '360 views'. The sense of solitude and wild upland scenery, especially on The Cheviot, is also highly valued. Many appreciate the rewarding challenge of the climbs and the photographic opportunities they provide.

Hiking times vary significantly based on the peak, route, and individual fitness. For example, a hike to Simonside Summit can be done as part of a shorter loop, while tackling The Cheviot or combining it with Hedgehope Hill will require a full day's effort. Always check specific route details for estimated durations.