CountyEthics

Kyloe-in-the-Woods

Sandstone · Partial exposure · 130m altitude

Do not climb
Do Not Climb
45%
confidence

Recent rainfall on April 11 (3.1mm), April 12 (0.8mm), and today April 13 (0.8mm) means the rock has had no meaningful dry period. Combined with the broader wet spell from April 1–5 (16.3mm) and intermittent showers since, internal moisture levels are likely elevated despite the SW aspect and moderate winds.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

View full analysis Analysis 1d ago

How accurate is this verdict?

Climbing Outlook

Today 14 Apr
Do Not Climb 45%
Tue 14 Apr
Do Not Climb 50%
Wed 15 Apr
Do Not Climb 80%
Thu 16 Apr
Do Not Climb 55%
Fri 17 Apr
Marginal 50%
Sat 18 Apr
Do Not Climb 55%

Site Details

Widely regarded as having the best bouldering in Northumberland. Set in woodland near Lowick, though tree felling (2020) and Storm Arwen (Nov 2021) removed much of the canopy — the crag is less sheltered than older guides suggest, with better air circulation but still broadly protected on a windy day. The steep, pocket-rich Fell Sandstone draws dedicated boulderers from across the UK. Approach only via the designated northern gate track.

Condition Notes

Woodland setting has changed significantly since 2020: Scottish Woodlands felled trees in front of and above the crag, and Storm Arwen (Nov 2021) caused further widespread canopy loss across the plantation. The crag is now less prone to condensation and drip than it once was, with improved topping-out and better air circulation. Still broadly sheltered on a windy day, but the 'perma-dry' reputation of older sources should not be relied upon. Steep pocket-rich rock holds moisture in features. Allow at least 1-2 dry days after rain — more in cold or still conditions.

Rock Type
Sandstone
Wind Exposure
Partial
Altitude
130m
Climbing
Bouldering
Aspects
SW
Problems
100
Boulder Grades
Font 3 – Font 8B+
Access
Private (Permissive)
Approach
10 min

Site Data

Name
Kyloe-in-the-Woods
County
Northumberland
Rock Type
Sandstone
Climbing Types
Bouldering
Aspects
SW
Wind Exposure
Partial
Altitude
130m
Latitude
55.613
Longitude
-1.876
OS Grid Ref
NU 048385
Access Type
Private (Permissive)
Approach Time
10 min
Problem Count
100
Route Count
Boulder Grades
Font 3 – Font 8B+
Trad Grades
Tidal
No
Parking Notes
Park at NU 03532 38979. Do not obstruct gates or turning areas. One side of road only.
Condition Notes
Woodland setting has changed significantly since 2020: Scottish Woodlands felled trees in front of and above the crag, and Storm Arwen (Nov 2021) caused further widespread canopy loss across the plantation. The crag is now less prone to condensation and drip than it once was, with improved topping-out and better air circulation. Still broadly sheltered on a windy day, but the 'perma-dry' reputation of older sources should not be relied upon. Steep pocket-rich rock holds moisture in features. Allow at least 1-2 dry days after rain — more in cold or still conditions.
ID
ffe6fe05-f9ad-4465-b90b-cc59724c24eb

Community

Local knowledge and data feedback from climbers

Inconsistency Reports

Dense woodland note incorrect as trees have felled following storm Arwen in 2021. Not sure if this is factoring into drying data but if so needs to reflect open crag conditions.