Two distinct themes come together in Hepple: Hepple Tower, a 14th-century building, and nature-focused tours and activities on the estate. The tower house appeals to those interested in cultural history, while walks and nature tours focus on the landscape and rewilding. Specific offerings range from a walk lasting several hours to a gin tour, so you can assess Hepple according to the focus of your stay.
Hepple Tower: Architecture and History
Hepple Tower, a 14th-century tower house, stands at the eastern end of the small village of Hepple. The building has partly collapsed; at the same time, it retains architectural features that offer insights into its original form and use. Its age, architectural form and state of preservation are different aspects of the same building: the term “tower house” describes its architectural form, while the surviving features provide clues to its earlier appearance and use. Hepple Tower is also designated as a Scheduled Monument. Those interested in cultural heritage will find both a specific medieval architectural form and a formal heritage designation here.
Walks and Nature Tours
The Hepple Moor Walk is a professionally guided walk of about six miles and takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours. The route crosses the estate’s hills and moorland and includes Tosson Hill. For planning your day, the duration is particularly important: it makes the walk a substantial activity, not a short stop. The distance is approximate, however, so plan using the estimated figure rather than an exact route length. Route details and scheduling may change, so check the latest information before setting out.
Another tour, “Walk on the Wild Side,” focuses on the rewilding project and is nature-based. In contrast to the Hepple Moor Walk, its distinguishing focus is the rewilding project rather than a roughly six-mile route across hills and moorland. This lets you choose based on the type of experience: a walk lasting several hours or a nature-focused tour of the rewilding project. Event dates may change, so check the latest dates before planning.
The landscape also has specific conservation designations: the land around the Simonside footpath is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Conservation Area. These designations apply to the land around the footpath and add a landscape perspective to the nature-based experiences.
Other Activities on the Estate
Land Rover safaris are available for guests who would like to explore the estate without walking. The land is explored by vehicle rather than on foot. Since safari availability may change, check current options before making firm plans.
The Hepple Gin Distillery Tour offers a different focus: it includes a visit to the Hepple Juniper nursery and samples of up to three Hepple Spirits products. The tour therefore combines a visit to the nursery with a tasting. The tour itinerary and included samples may change, so check the latest tour details before planning your visit.
Discover more destinations: Chatton, Holburn Village, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Newbiggin-By-The-Sea, Alnwick, Prudhoe, Warkworth, Slaggyford.
For the broader travel guide: Northumberland.
