Conquer the Simonside Hills – Hike, Views, Prizes & Donuts!

📅 Date: Saturday, 26th July 2025
⏰ Start Time: 9:00 AM
📍 Meeting Point: Details will be shared in a dedicated group chat after sign-up
🎟️ Price: £20 per person

Event Overview

Escape the city and join us on our first event post having the baby! For a revitalising day in the great outdoors as we head to the Simonside Hills, a Northumberland gem offering panoramic views, peaceful woodland trails, and windswept moorland ridges. This hike blends physical challenge with natural beauty, making it ideal for those looking to stretch their legs, clear their minds, and spend time with a likeminded community.

Expect rewarding climbs, sweeping vistas across Northumberland and maybe even a glimpse of the Cheviots on a clear day. We’ll wrap up the hike with a well-earned rest and donuts!

A Bit of Local History

The Simonside Hills have long held a mystical pull, woven into Northumbrian folklore as the haunt of the Duergar – mischievous dwarves said to lead travellers astray. While we’re unlikely to meet any supernatural beings, we will walk in the footsteps of ancient tribes, shepherds, and adventurers who’ve roamed this rugged landscape for centuries.

Simonside’s sandstone crags also offer some of the best views in the county – it’s one of Northumberland’s most-loved hidden treasures.

Why This Matters

Tyne to Summit is all about reconnecting – with the land, with each other, and with ourselves. This event offers the space to get out of your head and into your stride, to swap screen time for skyline, and to meet new friends away from the rat race of city life.

Event Details

Distance: Approx. 5 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate – includes some steep climbs and uneven terrain
Estimated Duration: 3–4 hours, including breaks
Terrain: Forest paths, open moorland, rocky trails

What to Bring

Clothing:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers (incase it rains)
• Warm, breathable layers (it can be breezy on the summit)
• Sturdy walking boots with good grip
• Hat and sunglasses (fingers crossed for sun!)

Food and Drink:

• At least 1.5–2L of water
• High-energy snacks
• Packed lunch

Other Essentials:

• Fully charged phone
• Sunscreen
• Personal first-aid basics
• Money/card if you’d like to go for a post-hike drink nearby (sadly we have to get back for the baby, getting old eh!)

Partners & Perks

We’re proud to be collaborating with some fantastic local businesses to make your day even sweeter:

🍩 Deep North Donuts – Every attendee will receive a delicious handmade doughnut at the end or before the hike, on the house!

🥾 Grisport Boots Giveaway – One lucky participant will win a brand-new pair of Grisport walking boots – perfect for future hikes!

🎯 Spin the Wheel Prize Game – Get ready to spin and win! One attendee will take home an extra surprise prize on the day. Could be gear, a day out, treats, or something just for laughs (try not to land on the trail mix!)…

Big thanks to our partners for helping us add some extra joy (and sugar) to the day!

Itinerary

🕘 9:00 AM: Arrive at the meeting point (shared privately via an Instagram group chat), check-in and pre-hike briefing
🗺️ 9:15 AM: Begin hike through woodland trails and onto the Simonside ridge, with scenic stops and photo ops along the way
🥪 Mid-Hike: Break for snacks and views at the summit
🔁 12:000–13:00 PM: Return to the starting point and get ready to head home (plus donuts and giveaways!)

Community Connection

We’ll set up a private Instagram group chat before the event so you can connect with fellow hikers, ask questions and build up that summit buzz. Hiking’s always better with a bit of banter and friendly faces along the way.

Important Information

This hike is a relaxed community adventure, not a guided or insured tour. Please ensure you’re comfortable navigating uneven ground and moderate inclines. You’re responsible for your own safety, fitness, and gear.

⚠️ Tickets are non-refundable due to limited space, admin time and demand. Please make sure you’re 100% able to attend before booking.