Westgate - Chapel Fell - Black Hill - Swinhopeburn - Back

Alan Anderson

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Although categorized as moderate, this is a fairly strenuous walk to the summits of Chapel Fell and Black Hill, the two hills that shape the little-known valley of Swinhope, a side valley of the better-known Weardale. This is a much busier valley in the snowy winter months when it is a popular area with skiers. Map-reading and compass skills are essential on this walk, that is primarily a fell walk from Westgate straight up the moor to Chapel Fell Top, then down and across the valley of the Swinhope Burn to Black Hill on the eastern side of the valley. A long, flat ramble along the plateau of Black Hill then follows before descending a long, stony lane to return to Westgate. The route provides stunning views of Upper Weardale. This is a walk best suited for the drier months of the year.

England - North England - Durham - North Pennines

Features

Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Food Shop, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Moor, Pub, Public Transport, River, Wildlife, Woodland

9/8/2021 - Honor Davison

Great walk, fantastic views, but took a lot longer than advertised with steep ascents and descents. If you have ageing joints, build in more time. And choose a really good day of weather. Definitely not what I would call moderate.....but worth it.