Simonside Stroll – Sunshine, Smiles & The Best Doughnuts in the North-East!

Last Saturday (26th July) was pure magic, like. We kicked off bright and early up the stunning Simonside Hills – sun splitting the skies, birds singing their hearts out, and twenty canny ramblers ready for a cracking day. From the first step, there was laughter in the air and chatter flying left, right and centre – twenty strangers soon feeling like old mates, swapping stories about life, the outdoors and why we love keeping fit in the fresh Northumberland air. A few attendees were a tad late, so everyone had to put up with Scott’s honking banter in the carpark whilst we waited, sorry!

The pace was steady, with plenty of stops for water and snack breaks (any excuse to whip out the chocolate hobnobs, eh?). And of course, we had to get the mandatory group pic at the top – windswept hair, wagging dog tails and all. The views were unreal – even spotted birds of prey gliding overhead, like they were putting on a show just for us.

Heading back down, we wound our way through lush forests – that soft crunch of pine needles underfoot – before looping back to the car park where the real treat was waiting… doughnuts! And not just any doughnuts – the best in the North-East, courtesy of our pals at DeepNorth. Sweet tooths well and truly sorted.

To top it off, we ran two cracking giveaways. One lucky rambler walked away with a free pair of hiking boots from the legends at Grisport, and another bagged themselves a Tyne To Summit tee on our spin-the-wheel game. Smiles all round – it doesn’t get much better than that.

“I didn’t know how much I needed that until I did it. I’ve been trying to get onto a Tyne To Summit event for ages, but either missed out or a wave of imposter syndrome prevented me from going. But honestly, it was the most welcoming, friendly and amazing bunch of people. I felt welcome and at ease straight away and thoroughly enjoyed the whole walk. I hate walking alone and having to worry about navigation and being on my own in random places. This is exactly what I needed. I can’t wait for the next one.”

Next up? Mark your calendars for 9th August – we’re heading to the historic Humbleton Hill in Wooler, followed by a proper treat at Ad Gefrin for their famous whisky tour. That one’s going to be a belter – don’t miss it!