Mountain peaks around Kielder offer a remote and rewarding experience within a vast expanse of woodland and moorland. This region, straddling the Anglo-Scottish border, features several notable hills known as Marilyns, which are distinguished by their significant prominence. These peaks provide extensive views across Kielder Forest and a sense of wild solitude. The area is ideal for those seeking an escape into unspoiled nature and challenging terrain.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
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This route section forms part of the Pennine Way and crosses potentially boggy ground. The duckboards here help you make progress across what would otherwise be not that good a footpath. Otherwise it is typical Cheviot scenery of rolling moorland with a nearby forest.
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There is a trig point on this summit, which has been painted white more recently. Gorgeous sweeping views from up here: particularly of Leap Hill, Goshen Hill, Philip Law and Leithope Forest.
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From next to the cairn on the summit, the views are impressive, particularly over Redesdale and Catcleugh Reservoir. At sunrise, when I was here, this place is basically "a paradise on Earth". By the way, if you are walking up to here from Byrness, be prepared for some serious (and I mean serious) climb. A short climb, but it will test what you're made of!
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Terrific views over Liddesdale from up here. Very close from the car park, and not much of a climb, but nonetheless lovely 'windswept' views of the area from up here.
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Deadwater Fell stands at 571 m and offers great views north into Scotland or south over Kielder forest and reservoir. The best trail to run here is the waymarked walking/running Deadwater Trail from the Kielder car park and visitor centre.
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Quite a good decent, top section is pretty good and flat out then you'll hit the gnarly sections
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Deadwater Fell stands above Kielder Forest at 571m. There are great views from the summit and a shelter to view them from and shelter from the wind.
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The summit of Deadwater Fell is at 571m. There are amazing views south over Kielder Forest and Kielder water and north into Scotland. It's also the high point of the calssic Kielder Deadwater trail mountain bike routes.
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Among the most appreciated peaks is Deadwater Fell summit, offering extensive views and known for its mountain biking trails. Visitors also enjoy Ravens Knowe Summit, part of the Pennine Way, and Priest Hill Summit, which provides terrific views over Liddesdale and is easily accessible from a car park.
The peaks in the Kielder region offer panoramic and extensive views across the vast Kielder Forest, surrounding moorland, and into Scotland. For example, Deadwater Fell summit provides sensational 360° views, while Byrness Hill Summit Cairn offers impressive vistas over Redesdale and Catcleugh Reservoir.
Yes, some peaks offer easier access. Priest Hill Summit is noted for being very close to a car park with not much of a climb, making it suitable for families. Additionally, the ascent and descent of Deadwater Fell can be part of easier walks on good paths and tracks, such as the Kielder Stane Trail.
The Kielder region offers a variety of hiking routes. You can explore trails like the moderate 'Kielder Castle to Silvas Capitalis (giant head) loop' or the more challenging 'Deadwater Fell loop from Kielder'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Kielder guide.
Yes, Deadwater Fell summit is a highlight for mountain bikers, featuring a black-grade 'Deadwater up and over trail' with downhill sections back to Kielder Castle. For more mountain biking routes, refer to the Gravel biking around Kielder guide.
For ultimate seclusion, Sighty Crag is notable for being the furthest hill in England from a road, offering a truly isolated walking experience in an untouched landscape. Peel Fell also provides a remote wilderness experience, being approximately three miles from the nearest road.
The terrain around Kielder's peaks, often referred to as 'Marilyns', consists of vast woodland and moorland. You can expect challenging terrain, sometimes boggy ground, and dense forestry plantations, contributing to a unique and rewarding outdoor adventure. Rolling moorland is typical, especially around Ravens Knowe Summit.
Several peaks offer unique features. Peel Fell and Deadwater Fell both straddle the Anglo-Scottish border, allowing you to stand in two countries at once. Deadwater Fell also hosts a flight navigation aid station at its summit. Hungry Law Summit Trig Point features a painted trig point, offering gorgeous sweeping views.
The Kielder region offers rewarding experiences year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activity. Spring and summer provide longer daylight hours and generally milder weather for hiking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers a stark, wild beauty for those prepared for colder conditions and potentially challenging terrain.
Generally, you do not need a permit for hiking the peaks within Kielder Forest. The area is open for public access, allowing visitors to explore its trails and summits freely. However, always check local signage for any specific restrictions or temporary closures.
Most trails within Kielder Forest and to its peaks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead in certain areas and to follow the Countryside Code. Remember to carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
Kielder offers extensive cycling opportunities, including the 'Kielder Dam – Lakeside Way loop' and the 'Kielder Castle – Kielder Viaduct loop'. These routes vary in difficulty from moderate to difficult. For a comprehensive list of options, explore the Cycling around Kielder guide.


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