Buy the OS Route Map and instructions for this route

There aren’t many places in England that feel quite as wild and remote as the Cheviot Hills, and pointing an mtb onto the broad windswept ridges that form the England/Scotland border, always feels committed and bold. But it doesn’t need to be: there are easier ways to get a feel for this wonderful range of hills; as this route — a short, sharp loop around Upper Coquetdale — demonstrates admirably.
The early stages are dedicated to climbing, and slowly but surely the metres pile up. Kidland Forest marks the top of the first pull, and the excellent singletrack drop from there to the Ulsway Burn gives just a hint of what’s coming up. A short climb over Middle Hill completes the outward leg and then it’s a sinuous ribbon of narrow dirt all the way back down to the road. There is a sting in the tail though, so save something for the short but very steep pull over Pass Peth.