Where to see the Heather in Bloom

From mid-August to early October, Northumberland’s wild heather bursts into bloom, transforming the moorlands into sweeping carpets of vivid purple. If you're looking to experience this seasonal spectacle at its finest, here are three of the best places to witness the heather in full glory:

The Simonside Hills

Rising above Rothbury, the Simonside Hills offer one of the most celebrated heather displays in the region. From sweeping ridges like Dove Crag and the Beacon to the open moorland of the Rothbury Terraces, August and September see the hills awash purple hues, a scene made even more magical at sunrise or sunset.

The Drake Stone & Harbottle Crags

Tucked above the village of Harbottle, the dramatic sandstone boulder known as the Drake Stone rises from a vast swathe of blooming heather toward the end of summer. A short but rewarding hike leads you through atmospheric moorland to the ancient stone, steeped in local legend and offering sweeping views over the Coquet Valley and beyond.

Allendale Moors

For a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Allendale Moors. These upland moorlands in Northumberland’s remote northern pennines are botanically rich peatlands dominated by common heather, along with a mix of cross-leaved heath and bog species.