The Hen Hole - 29th Aug 2026
Activity details
Widely regarded as the most beautiful route up The Cheviot, this unforgettable adventure takes us through the dramatic Hen Hole – a hidden gorge of cascading waterfalls, rocky pools and wild, untouched scenery on the western flank of Northumberland’s highest peak.
We’ll follow the burn upstream, weaving between waterfalls and plunge pools (with plenty of opportunities for a brave dip if you’re that way inclined!), before stopping for a well-earned two-course gourmet lunch beside the final waterfall, freshly prepared over a wood-fired stove. Wilderness dining at its finest.
From here, we climb up to Auchope Cairn and join the Pennine Way, following the ancient trail to the summit of The Cheviot for the obligatory photo at the cairn – and a moment to soak in the vast, wild views.
Our return takes us back via Auchope Cairn to the Border Ridge mountain refuge hut, where you’ll be treated to crème brûlée and the fascinating story of the WW2 plane crash on The Cheviot, before we descend back to Mounthooly.
This is a proper Northumberland classic – wild, dramatic, indulgent and unforgettable.
This experience involves short scrambles up The Hen Hole itself. While there are no great heights or ropes required, guests should be confident at scrambling over rocks and be prepared to cross over the stream as required.
Out of Easy/Moderate/Challenging, I would rate this as challenging.
What's included
- Qualified Mountain Leader (Chris)
- Gourmet two course lunch
- Tea, coffee, refreshments & crème brulee to finish
- All diets/allergies catered for
What's not included
- Snacks & personal drinks
Check-in details
We will meet at 09.30 at Hethpool car park in The College Valley, Northumberland
What 3 Words – types.painter.baker
Grid Reference – NT 893 280
We will aim to begin at 10.00 and be back to the vehicles around 17.00
What to bring
- Walking boots/shoes
- Personal drinks
- Personal snacks
- Waterproofs
- Additional clothing layers/hat/gloves
- Rucksack
- Any personal medication
Restrictions
This experience involves short scrambles up The Hen Hole itself. While there are no great heights or ropes required, guests should be confident at scrambling over rocks and be prepared to cross over the stream as required.
Out of Easy/Moderate/Challenging, I would rate this as challenging.
The route is 9 miles long with a total ascent of 2029 ft
Under 18's permitted, but they must be with a parent/guardian.
Dogs welcome, but they are entirely your responsibility
Disclaimers
Anyone swimming does so at their own risk