![Wether Cairn [Wholhope Hill]](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/Footpath%2C_Wholhope_Hill_-_geograph.org.uk_-_6663424.jpg)
Northumberland
Wether Cairn [Wholhope Hill]
563M
1847FT
About Wether Cairn [Wholhope Hill]
Rising within the rolling uplands of the Northumberland Cheviots, this 563-metre summit offers a quiet, grassy alternative to the busier border ridges. Its character is defined by the high, open moorland typical of the Kidland area, providing a sense of solitude and clear lines of sight toward the more prominent northern peaks.
Key Statistics
Rank
14th Highest in Region
Parent Range
Cheviot Hills
Prominence
?
67
Nearest Town
Northumberland
Geology
You are walking on ancient lava flows called andesite. These volcanic rocks form the rugged foundation of the Cheviot Volcanic Formation beneath your boots.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NT940116
Latitude
55.3986°N
Longitude
2.0950°W
Did You Know?
- •The name 'Wether' stems from the Old English term for a castrated ram, reflecting the hill's long history as sheep grazing territory, while 'Wholhope' likely refers to the deep, blind valley or 'hope' on its southern flank.
- •It is often climbed alongside the neighbouring Cushat Law, which dominates the horizon to the north, or as a detour from the ancient Clennell Street, a former cross-border drove road and whisky-smuggling route.
- •From the summit cairn, the view to the west is dominated by the sprawling profile of Windy Gyle and the distant, dark forest plantations that define the Anglo-Scottish border.
- •While officially classified as a Tump, most walkers find its status as a reliably quiet spot for a summit break far more relevant than its precise topographical prominence.