If you’re in any way intrigued by ancient history, then hiking up Yeavering Bell will absolutely tick your boxes. Not only does this 1,184-foot (361 m) hill hold a major Iron Age hill fort, but the immediate area is so chock full of ancient remnants that careless foot placement might have you literally tripping over them.

Overlooking the important Anglo-Saxon settlement of Yeavering and the River Glen, Yeavering Bell stands at the northern boundary of Northumberland National Park and the majestic Cheviot Hills. Ancient history or no ancient history, hiking around here is simply a wonderful adventure and suited to every ability.

Goats, grass and great views

While many hill forts can be found atop England’s high points, with plenty on the hills neighbouring Yeavering Bell alone, this one is different in that you cannot miss it. The hill’s twin summits are entirely encircled by an excellently-preserved, prehistoric stone wall. Traces of over a hundred roundhouses have also been found, making this an unusually large settlement.

With many hiking trails around Yeavering Bell, you can start from any direction, including the nearby town of Wooler. Ramble over the Cheviots on as short or as along a hike as you fancy, keeping an eye out of the feral Cheviot goats that roam freely here.

Reaching Yeavering Bell’s summit, the views peel out in all directions. Patchwork fields in the Scottish Borders flow northwards while the grassy, rambling Cheviots fill up the southern scenery. Winter can transform the hills into a winter wonderland with frost or snow while summer lets you explore long into the golden evenings.

Base yourself in pretty, rural Wooler with its youth hostel, hotels and campsites.

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Northumberland National Park

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Location: Kirknewton, North East England, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

Dan Hobson

March 5, 2019

Hiking

On Yeavering Bell, you can explore the largest Iron Age hillfort in the region and see the remains of more than 100 roundhouses. There are spectacular views from the summit, too. Keep a look out for the elusive herd of wild goats that still graze the area after being brought over from the Middle East in Neolithic times.

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4.9

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#1.

Yeavering Bell loop from Kirknewton — Northumberland National Park

11.3km

03:22

320m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.8

(14)

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#2.

Yeavering Bell & Humbleton Hill peak loop from Wooler — Northumberland National Park

19.4km

05:44

570m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.6

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#3.

Ad Gefrin & Yeavering Bell loop from Kirknewton — Northumberland National Park

6.87km

02:14

290m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Elevation 340 m

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Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

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See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Kirknewton, North East England, England, United Kingdom

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Yeavering Bell summit and hillfort

#1.

Yeavering Bell loop from Kirknewton — Northumberland National Park

#2.

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#3.

Ad Gefrin & Yeavering Bell loop from Kirknewton — Northumberland National Park

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