4.5
(741)
5,063
hikers
34
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Whitton And Tosson are found within the Northumberland National Park, characterized by diverse landscapes. The region features the Simonside Hills, including Simonside Summit, offering views across the Cheviot Hills. Hikers can explore tranquil forests, open moorland, and riverside paths, particularly along the River Coquet. The area's geology includes Northumberland Sandstone Hills, contributing to its distinct scenic appeal.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(3)
13
hikers
5.66km
01:36
130m
130m
Embark on an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike from Simonside Car Park to Church Rock, gaining 417 feet (127 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. The trail begins on well-maintained forest tracks, gradually ascending through conifer and deciduous trees before transitioning to open moorland. You will encounter varied terrain, including exposed rocks and tree roots, with some sections of the moorland paths being paved or pitched, all while enjoying panoramic views over woodlands towards the Coquet Valley and, on clear days, the Northumberland coast. The dramatic crags and heather moorland of the Simonside Hills provide a striking backdrop to your journey. You will find the route generally easy to follow, making it suitable for families, though some paths can be steep with rocky steps. Be aware that certain woodland areas may be wet and uneven, which could make them less suitable for pushchairs. Access the trailhead directly from Simonside Car Park, which serves as a convenient starting point for this engaging walk. The Simonside Hills are rich in history, featuring prehistoric remnants like the Lordenshaw Iron Age Hill Fort and Bronze Age cairns. Your destination, Little Church Rock, is a prominent, isolated outcrop of fell sandstone, believed to have been a gathering place for clandestine religious meetings in past centuries. From its summit, you can enjoy magnificent views, including that of The Cheviot, and observe ancient cup marks on the rock, thought to be over 4,000 years old. The area also holds local folklore about the Duergar, mythical dwarves said to misguide travelers.
4.8
(4)
54
hikers
3.58km
01:09
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
18
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
6.05km
01:43
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lordenshaw Fort 267.8m P22.3 (879ft) (Hill ID: 504135) [JNSA 14899] Northumberland National Park Definitive List summit. County of Northumberland Definitive List summit.
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all was fine when I passed through in late October
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Good trails to ride on, great views on a sunny day. Can either include as part of a Rothbury/Simonside ride, or head over to Harwood Forest
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In the case of a "market cross," such as the one we encounter again in Rothbury, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike the classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only permitted to be erected if the corresponding village also possessed the so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
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A completely normal pub with a few tables inside – definitely make a reservation! They also have vegetarian options. Overall, we thought it was OK. The beer garden at the back is huge, with steep steps, and is mediocrely maintained.
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A typically beautiful sandstone building in Rothbury. If you like that, this is the place for you – and you'll find plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat in the town center.
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Whitton And Tosson offers 14 easy hiking trails, perfect for those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. These routes are part of a larger network of 34 trails in the area, catering to various skill levels.
Easy hikes in Whitton And Tosson traverse diverse landscapes within the Northumberland National Park. You'll find tranquil forests, open moorland, and riverside paths, particularly along the River Coquet. The dramatic Simonside Hills are a prominent feature, offering scenic views even on gentler routes.
Yes, several easy circular walks are available. For example, the Lordenshaws Car Park – Dove Crag summit loop from Lordenshaws is an easy 3.6 km path that leads to Dove Crag summit, offering views and passing near ancient rock art. Another option is the Rothbury Village Centre – Rothbury Market Cross loop from Thropton, a 6.6 km trail through the village of Rothbury and along riverside paths.
Many easy hikes incorporate significant landmarks. You can explore the ancient site of Lordenshaws, which features prehistoric rock art like the Lordenshaw Cup and Ring Marked Rock, Bronze Age burial cairns, and an Iron Age hill fort. The View from Dove Crag is also accessible on some easy loops, providing excellent vistas.
Yes, the easy trails are generally well-suited for families. Routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances, such as the Church Rock from Simonside Car Park — Northumberland National Park (5.7 km), provide an enjoyable experience for all ages. The varied landscapes, including forests and historical sites, offer engaging points of interest for children.
Many trails in Whitton And Tosson are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through livestock areas or nature reserves. The diverse terrain, from forests to moorland, offers plenty for dogs to enjoy alongside their owners.
The easy trails in Whitton And Tosson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 440 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from spots like Simonside Summit (accessible via slightly longer routes or as a viewpoint from easy trails), the historical significance of sites like Lordenshaws, and the peaceful atmosphere of the forest and riverside paths.
Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads. For instance, the Church Rock from Simonside Car Park — Northumberland National Park route starts directly from Simonside Car Park, and the Lordenshaws Car Park – Dove Crag summit loop from Lordenshaws begins at Lordenshaws Car Park, making access convenient.
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for easy hikes, with wildflowers blooming and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. While winter can be picturesque, some paths may be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear and checking local conditions are advisable.
The nearby town of Rothbury serves as a convenient base with various dining options. The Rothbury Village Centre – Rothbury Market Cross loop from Thropton, for example, takes you through Rothbury village, providing opportunities to stop at local pubs or cafes before or after your walk.
Easy hikes in Whitton And Tosson vary in length and time. For example, the Church Rock from Simonside Car Park — Northumberland National Park is about 5.7 km and takes approximately 1 hour 36 minutes. Shorter options like the Lordenshaws Car Park – Dove Crag summit loop from Lordenshaws are around 3.6 km and can be completed in about 1 hour 8 minutes.


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