College Valley: Northumberland's Hidden Gem of Wild Ponies and Ancient Hillforts
Nestled within the rugged Cheviot Hills of Northumberland lies the breathtaking College Valley, a secluded haven teeming with stunning wildlife and remarkably preserved ancient ruins. This lush, expansive landscape, meticulously maintained by the College Valley Estate, offers unparalleled accessibility for walkers and cyclists seeking a genuine retreat into nature.
A Sanctuary for Wildlife and History
Wandering through the valley's meadows, visitors can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including wild ponies, roe deer, hares, and wild goats, as documented by Northumberland National Park. The area's historical significance is equally impressive, with evidence of human habitation dating back at least 7,000 years to late Stone Age farmers.
During the Iron Age, approximately 2,800 years ago, communities constructed timber roundhouses surrounded by substantial wooden palisades. Today, remnants of this era include an Iron Age stone circle near the Hethpool car park and numerous hillforts scattered across the Cheviots. Northumberland boasts Britain's highest concentration of these ancient fortifications, and College Valley is no exception, providing fascinating glimpses into prehistoric settlements and spectacular vantage points over the undulating hills.
Romano-British Settlement and Seasonal Wonders
Opposite Hethpool House, a well-preserved Romano-British settlement stands as a testament to the valley's continuous occupation. The early Bronze Age saw farming reach higher altitudes due to warmer temperatures, leaving behind terraced fields and burial cairns. However, the valley's proximity to Scotland led to significant devastation during the 14th to 16th centuries, with Border Reiver raids plaguing the land.
Seasonal changes bring unique experiences: in summer, the Hethpool Linn Pools offer refreshing swimming spots, while autumn visitors can witness sea trout and salmon jumping upstream to their spawning grounds. The valley's 12,000 acres are rich in flora, trees, and birds, with Exmoor ponies adding to the scenic charm.
Practical Information for Visitors
To preserve its tranquility, College Valley restricts daily vehicle entry to just 12 cars, requiring a £10 permit bookable online. Mobile phone signal is virtually non-existent, enhancing the remote experience. For accommodations, options range from the Mounthooly Bunkhouse—housing 24 guests across three rooms with beds from £17 per night—to numerous holiday cottages. The bunkhouse, located a mile from the Pennine Way, features hot showers and log burners, ideal for walkers and cyclists.
One TripAdvisor review captures the valley's allure: "What a wonderful valley to visit... It was so peaceful and in May the colour of the gorse is just beautiful. The memorial to the pilots that crashed during WW2 over the Cheviot Hills is so moving." From the extinct volcano Cheviot Massif to the enchanting Collingwood Oaks, College Valley offers a complete escape into Northumberland's unspoiled natural and historical heritage.
