The three highest of the Cheviot Hills cluster around the upper reaches of the Harthope Burn, peering down into the narrow valley below. The Cheviot, at 815 metres, is the highest of these three hills and is also England`s highest hill north of Cross Fell. It is a whale of a hill and, as Northumberland`s premier hill, it is a must to climb. The second highest, Hedgehope Hill, is a majestic hill, and when viewed from the Harthope Valley, is perfectly conical. The third and final hill of the trio, Comb Fell, is a hill of little consequence although its height and its relative remoteness make it an attractive destination. This walk takes you on a horseshoe shaped journey across all three of these high hills, crossing en route the watershed of the Harthope Burn. This is a classic Cheviot route. The rewards are extremely high.

2. Continue to follow the path, aided occasionally by a directional fingerpost, onto Long Crags which at their highest point are more than 420 metres above sea level. From here there is a  tremendous view of  much of the way ahead. The shapely Hedgehope Hill, with Threestoneburn Wood clinging to its eastern flanks, can be seen across the flat expanse of Kelpie Strand. Across the valley, the Cheviot displays its long, broad back and rubs shoulders with its smaller neighbour, Scald Hill. The adrenalin begins to pump! Once across the crags and the step stile (NT 956213) the cotton grass rich moorland of Kelpie Strand makes pleasant walking as you now head towards the `cone` of Hedgehope Hill. On reaching the 450 metre contour, the path begins to swing towards the south-west as the serious climbing gets underway. The gradient steepens as you gain over 260 metres in height in just over half a mile of walking, before finally reaching the 714 metre high summit of Hedgehope Hill.

4. Time now to head in a west south west direction on a 1½ mile journey to the unspectacular top of Comb Fell. Keeping the post and wire fence to your left, an easy downhill stretch leads very quickly to the lowest point between the two hills. Here you will, for a short time, need to pick your way through peat hags and across potentially boggy ground. There is no real difficulty. Once past this area, the gentle gradient soon brings you, at 652 metres, to the eastern summit of Comb Fell. It is barely noticeable! Continue with the fence across the flat and generally wet top and then descend slightly until you reach a fence which rises up from the Harthope Valley, below you to your right. At this point (NT 915185) and without crossing the fence, you must leave the high ground as you head north westwards along the fence line to the watershed of the Harthope Burn. But first, why not continue with the curve of the fence for a short distance to visit the rocky `pyramid` ahead; Coldlaw Cairn. Here you will feel a real sense of remoteness whilst looking down towards the infant River Breamish. It is not obligatory, but you will not be disappointed. It is a tremendous vantage point with great views to Windy Gyle, Cushat Law, Bloodybush Edge, Hogdon Law, Shill Moor and much more. It is a difficult place to leave. Retrace your steps and once back across the stile follow the fence towards the head of the Harthope Burn. Whilst the going is reasonably easy, there are two fairly substantial peat hags to negotiate, so be prepared to use your hands. The watershed area is known as Scotsman`s Knowe and soon you are rising again towards Cairn Hill.

6. Immediately after a short col, a quick and easy climb brings you to the top of the 549 metre high Scald Hill. The actual top lies just across the post and wire fence where there are good views down into the quiet Lambden Valley and across to Broadhope Hill and Cold Law. After a further short descent you must part company with the guiding fence (NT 933222) as the route back to the valley floor now heads downhill in a generally easterly direction. To your left, Blackseat Hill stands behind the New Burn, whilst to your right, Hedgehope Hill reminds you of your earlier efforts. Enjoy the rest of the comfortable descent and when you eventually arrive at the valley road be sure to turn left for the few hundred metres stroll back to the Hawsen Burn. The Harthope Valley has been described as “one of the most picturesque and unspoilt valleys in Northumberland, a favourite with birdwatchers and walkers“. As you wipe the sweat from your brow, this is your moment to enjoy the delights of this tranquil valley.