A view worth climbing for
Known to some as Robin Hood Tree, Sycamore Gap featured in the 1991 blockbuster film 'Robin Hood Prince of Thieves' starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman. Follow in their footsteps and re-live those early scenes of adventure as they return to the promised land to battle the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.
This 3 mile circular walk is perfect for getting back to your car, as you end up back where you started after passing striking National Park viewpoints. Setting off from either The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre or Steel Rigg Car Park, the trail truly gets your heart racing with a steep, uphill ascent before heading back down to see Sycamore Gap.
Hiking along Hadrian’s Wall as you go, you can discover ancient history alongside breath-taking views on this route. To the side of this iconic tree is Roman Milecastle 39, known as Castle Nick. Once you have taken plenty of photos of Sycamore Gap, and maybe even stopped for a picnic, you can turn back and follow your original tracks, or continue on the loop beside Sycamore Gap and back to The Sill.
For a slightly longer circular walk (5 miles) you can begin at Housesteads Roman Fort. From the fort you join the Hadrian’s Wall Path heading west. The path back from Sycamore Gap follows the route of the Roman Military Way.
If you want to explore a little further, there are a number of ways to extend this route and explore more of Northumberland National Park. If you are feeling energetic then continue past Sycamore Gap to Crag Lough and Greenlee Lough then back to your car on this 8 mile circular route.
If you have time, head into The Sill to see fascinating exhibitions. Head upstairs for a frothy coffee with a view, as the centre’s cafe boasts panoramic views over the National Park.