Hepple Tower Northumberland
A 600-year-old tower offering panoramic Coquet Valley views, once a stronghold against Scottish raids and thieves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy the scenic views
Hepple Tower Northumberland
Best Time
Enjoy the scenic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 600-year-old tower offering panoramic Coquet Valley views, once a stronghold against Scottish raids and thieves.
"A small tower with a great view, perfect for history buffs and walkers."
🚫 No Climbing Allowed
Respect the site and private property. Climbing the tower is forbidden and dangerous.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with walks in Rothbury, Harwood, or Simonside Forest for a fuller experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hepple Tower Views
Coquet Valley
Commanding extensive views over the Coquet Valley, this ancient stronghold offers a glimpse into strategic defense.
Historical Significance
Tower site
Built 600 years ago by the powerful Ogle family as a defense against Scottish invaders and thieves.
Peaceful Ambiance
Tower surroundings
Despite its historical role, the tower now offers a very peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Respect Private Property
Best for Walkers & History Buffs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Climbing Allowed
Respect the site and private property. Climbing the tower is forbidden and dangerous.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with walks in Rothbury, Harwood, or Simonside Forest for a fuller experience.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is not extensive. Consider it a stop during a longer walk rather than a destination with ample parking.
📜 Learn the History
Read the information board to understand its past as a stronghold for the Ogle family.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Climbing Allowed
Respect the site and private property. Climbing the tower is forbidden and dangerous.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with walks in Rothbury, Harwood, or Simonside Forest for a fuller experience.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking is not extensive. Consider it a stop during a longer walk rather than a destination with ample parking.
📜 Learn the History
Read the information board to understand its past as a stronghold for the Ogle family.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Hepple Tower for its commanding views over the Coquet Valley and its historical significance as a former stronghold. It's noted as a peaceful spot, ideal for walkers exploring the surrounding countryside. However, the limited parking and the fact that it's on private land with no climbing allowed are points to be aware of.
"Built 600 years ago for one of the most powerful Northumbrian families, the Ogles, great spot to see any marauders coming down from Scotland. This is in a beautiful walking area with the town of Rothbury nearby, also Harwood and1 Simonside forest and the village of Thropton (pic) and if you like to see how our ancestors lived, it was worth a visit."
John Reay
"From information board. Commanding extensive views over the Coquet Valley, Tosson Tower was not only a safe stronghold but a prestigious home for the Ogles, a powerful Northumbrian family. Built about 600 years ago as a defence against invading Scots, it was also a refuge for local villagers from marauding bands of thieves - the Border Reivers.
Although most of the dressed stone was removed in the last 100 years for use in other buildings, Tosson Tower is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Further collapse has been
prevented by consolidation work carried out
Northumberland National Park in partnership with the owners.
You are welcome to view the Tower but remember the surrounding land is private. Do not climb."
Nigel Sarsfield
"A small tower with a great view.
Not much park if you wish to stop.
It's right next to some holiday cottages."
Michael Cowie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hepple Tower is located in the Coquet Valley, near Rothbury. Access is typically via local roads. It's often visited as part of a walk, so consider parking in nearby Rothbury or Thropton and walking to the tower.
Public transport options to this specific rural location are limited. It's best reached by car or as part of a hiking route. Check local bus services for Rothbury for potential starting points.
The nearest town is Rothbury, which offers amenities and is a good base for exploring the area. Thropton is also a nearby village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hepple Tower is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and can be viewed from the surrounding land, which is private. There are no admission fees.
As it's an outdoor historical site on private land, there are no set opening hours. It can be viewed during daylight hours, but remember to be respectful of the surroundings.
Absolutely not. Climbing the tower is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns and the fact that it is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Parking is very limited directly at the tower site, as it's adjacent to private residences. It's recommended to park in a nearby village like Rothbury or Thropton and walk.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the remains of the tower, which was historically a stronghold for the Ogle family. The main draw is the commanding views over the Coquet Valley.
Yes, it's a great spot for a brief stop to appreciate the views and historical context, especially if you're already walking in the area.
Built around 600 years ago, it served as a defense against Scottish raids and a refuge from Border Reivers. It was a prestigious home for the Ogle family.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a quiet moment with a snack. Be sure to take all litter with you and be mindful of the private property.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are the panoramic views of the Coquet Valley from the tower's vicinity and capturing the historical structure itself against the landscape.
Yes, the elevated position offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during golden hour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚶♀️ Hikers and Ramblers
Consider parking in Rothbury or Thropton and incorporating the tower into a circular walk. The views from the tower's vicinity are a rewarding sight after a good trek. Remember to respect the private land and stick to visible paths.
🏰 History Enthusiasts
While the tower is not fully intact, its strategic position and historical context make it a compelling site. It's a great spot to imagine life centuries ago and the challenges faced by those living in this frontier region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Border Reiver History
Today, while much of the dressed stone has been repurposed over the centuries, the tower remains a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Consolidation work by Northumberland National Park has helped preserve what's left, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance. Remember that the surrounding land is private, so while you can view the tower and its commanding vistas, climbing is strictly forbidden.
Exploring the Coquet Valley
Nearby attractions like the town of Rothbury provide a charming base with local amenities, while Simonside Forest offers extensive walking trails for all levels. Whether you're planning a short stroll or a more ambitious hike, the Coquet Valley provides a picturesque backdrop. The proximity to these areas makes Hepple Tower a perfect, albeit brief, stop on a larger exploration of the region.
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