Black Belling

The walk up Black Belling takes longer than you'd expect, but that's precisely why most people skip it. From Hexham, it's a fair trek into the moorland above Kielder, and you'll be climbing steadily for the better part of an hour before the summit reveals itself. The view, once you're there, justifies the effort - you get proper expansive moorland stretching in all directions, with Kielder Water visible if the weather plays ball.

This is a walker's destination, full stop. Don't bring small children expecting a gentle afternoon ramble; the path is rough and the ascent relentless. But if you're after solitude and genuine fell-walking without the crowds of the Lake District, Black Belling delivers. The Northumberland moorland has a raw, windswept character that appeals to people who want to actually earn their views rather than drive to a car park and pose for photos.

There's no facility at the summit, no café, no interpretation boards. It's free access, as is typical for moorland, though you'll want proper boots and a map - phone signal is patchy up there. Allow two to three hours for a round trip depending on fitness. The nearest proper base is Hexham, though if you're staying at Kielder Waterside or one of the other lodges around Kielder, you're roughly twenty minutes away. This pairs well with other moorland exploration in the area rather than as a standalone morning out.