Simonside Ridge

At a Glance

Distance

8.8 km (5.5 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

3 hr

Walk Type

Peak, Woodland

Route Type

Circular

Off Lead Potential

High

Livestock Risk

Low

Facilities

Three Wheat Heads Inn, Queens Head and Turks Head in Rothbury (all dog-friendly); Tomlinson's Café

Parking

Simonside Forestry Car Park (NE65 7NW); free

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Simonside Ridge dog friendly?

  Simonside Ridge scores 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it one of the better walks in the region for bringing your dog along. The mix of sheltered forest and open moorland suits dogs well, and there are moorland streams and forest burns along the route for a drink. After the walk, the Three Wheat Heads Inn, Queens Head, and Turks Head in nearby Rothbury all welcome dogs, as does the Anglers Arms at Weldon Bridge.

• Can dogs be off lead at Simonside Ridge?

  Off-lead potential is high throughout much of this walk , livestock pressure is described as low both in the forest sections and on the open ridge, which makes it a genuinely relaxed outing for dogs. The moorland is rich with heather and peat scent, so expect plenty of enthusiastic sniffing. Just be mindful on the exposed ridge, as the sandstone rocks can be slippery when wet.

• What should I know before visiting Simonside Ridge with my dog?

  This is an 8.9km circuit with 327 metres of ascent, so it's a proper hill walk rather than a gentle stroll , worth bearing in mind for older or less confident dogs. The ridge is exposed and can be very windy, and the sandstone becomes slippery in wet conditions, so sure-footed dogs are better suited. Park at Simonside Forestry Car Park (NE65 7NW), which is free, and take a moment to look at the ancient rock carvings there before you head off.

Simonside Forestry Car Park, Rothbury NE65 7NW

55.3055, -1.9040