Simonside has received persistent rainfall over the past two weeks (56mm in 28 days, 16mm in the last 7 days alone) with rain again today, and the NW-facing aspect at 430m with near-constant cloud cover and high humidity (81% average) means the rock has had virtually no opportunity to dry. The forecast shows continued unsettled weather with rain on most days through the coming week, making conditions unsuitable for climbing.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
How accurate is this verdict?
Climbing Outlook
Site Details
The highest sandstone crags in Northumberland, on the Simonside Hills near Rothbury. NW-facing summit ridge position at up to 430m means it's often in cloud and primarily a spring/summer venue. Very exposed to weather but dries when wind is present. Unrivalled views over the Cheviots and Coquetdale. Long walk-in (30+ minutes).
Condition Notes
High altitude means frequently in cloud — surface moisture from mist can keep rock damp even without rain. NW aspect receives minimal direct sun. Primarily a spring/summer venue; often too damp and cold outside May-September.
- Rock Type
- Sandstone
- Wind Exposure
- Exposed
- Altitude
- 430m
- Climbing
- Bouldering Trad
- Aspects
- NW
- Problems
- 105
- Boulder Grades
- Font 5 – Font 7c
- Access
- CRoW Open Access
- Approach
- 35 min
Site Data
- Name
- Simonside
- County
- Northumberland
- Rock Type
- Sandstone
- Climbing Types
- Bouldering, Trad
- Aspects
- NW
- Wind Exposure
- Exposed
- Altitude
- 430m
- Latitude
- 55.295
- Longitude
- -2.01
- OS Grid Ref
- NZ 024987
- Access Type
- CRoW Open Access
- Approach Time
- 35 min
- Problem Count
- 105
- Route Count
- —
- Boulder Grades
- Font 5 – Font 7c
- Trad Grades
- —
- Tidal
- No
- Parking Notes
- Main Simonside car park or alternative at Lordenshaw (NZ 05311 98772). Car break-ins reported — do not leave valuables visible.
- Condition Notes
- High altitude means frequently in cloud — surface moisture from mist can keep rock damp even without rain. NW aspect receives minimal direct sun. Primarily a spring/summer venue; often too damp and cold outside May-September.
- ID
- e37c3b08-25d7-438b-9a80-65650478cd78
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