The best walks and hikes around Rothbury
4.5
(688)
4,815
hikers
45
hikes
Hikes around Rothbury explore the landscape of Northumberland National Park, characterized by expansive forests, rolling hills, and the meandering River Coquet. The terrain offers a mix of gentle riverside paths and more demanding ascents into the Simonside Hills, with sandstone crags and heather-covered moorland. This variety provides walking routes suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Rothbury
- The most popular hiking route is Simonside & Dove crag loop from Rothbury — Northumberland National Park, a 8.1 mile (13.0 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 50 minutes to complete. This route involves a steady climb to the ridge for views across the Coquet Valley and Cheviot Hills.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is National Trust Cragside house & estate loop, a moderate 3.9 mile (6.3 km) path. This trail navigates the managed woodlands and gardens of the historic Cragside estate.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Cragside Lake – Rocky Waterfall loop from Thropton, a 9.3 mile (15.0 km) trail leading through woodland and past water features, often completed in about 4 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Rothbury is defined by heather moorland, sandstone outcrops, and extensive woodlands. The network of trails offers accessible riverside walks as well as more strenuous hill climbs with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Rothbury are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. More than 1,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Rothbury's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.9
(69)
281
hikers
13.0km
03:50
370m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
9
hikers
6.32km
01:46
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.9
(8)
115
hikers
14.5km
03:59
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
107
hikers
8.23km
02:16
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
85
hikers
11.9km
03:21
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
can be easy or difficult, depends which side you ascend from. so choose wisely
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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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Quoted from the booklet "Coquet meanders" by Andrew Charleston, a local from Rothbury: On the moors to the north of Rothbury are the trenches - still visible today these are a stark reminder of... the Great War. If you are not aware of the trenches you may walk past them, without noticing their existence. A large section.... Is criss-crossed with hundreds of yards of front line, utility and service trenches. ...... It is said that over a thousand men made the journey by train to Rothbury and were billeted throughout the village.... ------- The trenches today are a beautiful setting from which to enjoy some of the best views.... In August when the trenches are dressed in their Sunday best of purple heather it is difficult to imagine young lads, destined for a life doon the pit, arriving in this wonderful location and embarking for a mission, the like of which the world had never witnessed. Every soldier has left their small mark on this landscape, but few of us now see it.
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We wondered if we'd find heather blossoms here (now in August)! Oh yes - a dream in purple 💜
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Those with a fear of heights may have difficulty, but everyone else will enjoy the height and the magnificent view of the property.
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First of all: it's part of the National Trust. That means members can enter without it; otherwise, it currently costs 25 pounds per adult. Once you've paid at the entrance, you can go directly to the main car park, or you can drive along the "Carriage Way" and stop at one of the other car parks – wherever you like. There are several signposted hikes, but they'll be too meager for most Komoot users. Today we combined the black route with a few of our own detours and side trips – great!!!!! The house is OK, but for me (!) it was even more beautiful outside – there's so much to see and enjoy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Rothbury?
Yes, Rothbury offers several gentle walks suitable for families. The Rothbury Riverside Walk is a peaceful 1.5-mile stroll along the River Coquet, with paths accessible for pushchairs. For a walk with more to see, the National Trust Cragside house & estate loop is a popular choice, offering well-maintained paths through the historic estate's gardens and woodlands.
What are the best circular walks around Rothbury?
The area is well-known for its circular routes. For a challenging hike with rewarding views, the Simonside & Dove crag loop is a local favourite. It's a demanding 8.1-mile (13.0 km) trek, but the panoramic views from the ridge are exceptional. Many other loops of varying lengths explore the surrounding hills and woodlands.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Most trails around Rothbury are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the landscape. When walking in areas like the Simonside Hills or near farmland, keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring) and ground-nesting bird season (March to July). The woodlands and riverside paths are generally great for walks with dogs.
Are there any walks with waterfalls near Rothbury?
Yes, you can find waterfalls within the Cragside estate. The Cragside Lake – Rocky Waterfall loop from Thropton is a 9.3-mile (15.0 km) hike that takes you through woodlands and past some of the estate's impressive water features, including a rocky cascade.
Where can I find the best views?
For some of the most dramatic panoramic views, head to the Simonside Hills. The climb to the ridge reveals breathtaking vistas across the Coquet Valley, the Cheviot Hills, and on a clear day, even to the Northumberland coastline. The area is highly regarded by walkers for its stunning scenery.
Are there any walks that include a pub stop?
Rothbury town itself has several traditional pubs and tea rooms, making it easy to start or end your walk with refreshments. Many circular routes are designed to begin and end in the town, allowing you to park your car and enjoy a well-earned meal or drink after your hike without needing to drive.
What is the hiking like in Northumberland National Park near Rothbury?
Rothbury serves as a gateway to Northumberland National Park, which is known for its vast, unspoiled landscapes. Hikes here range from gentle riverside strolls to challenging ascents into heather-clad hills. The park is characterized by its sense of space, dark skies, and well-preserved natural beauty.
Are there any trails that explore the area's history?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. A walk around Lordenshaws, near the Simonside Hills, allows you to see an Iron Age hillfort and prehistoric rock carvings. For Victorian history, the Historic Waterwheel – Cragside House and Gardens loop explores the grounds of the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.
Where is a good place to park for a walk?
For walks starting in the town, there are several pay-and-display car parks in Rothbury itself. For hikes into the Simonside Hills, there is a dedicated car park at the base of the hills (postcode NE65 7NW), which is a popular starting point. Please be aware that this car park can get busy, especially on weekends.
How many hiking trails are there around Rothbury?
There are over 45 hiking routes to explore around Rothbury on komoot. These range from 20 easy walks perfect for a casual day out to over 25 moderate and difficult trails for those seeking more of a challenge in the hills.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Rothbury?
The trails around Rothbury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the Simonside Hills, the peaceful riverside paths along the Coquet, and the variety of walks available for all fitness levels.
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