“I was surprised and impressed that I had found complete silence in the English countryside.” – Trevor Cox, Sonic Wonderland: A Scientific Odyssey
If it’s peace and serenity you’re after, you won’t find a more tranquil place in the country than a forested hillock in Northumberland. In his book, Sonic Wonderland: A Scientific Odyssey, acoustic engineering professor Trevor Cox named Kielder Forest the quietest place in the UK.
Kielder, which is located in the Northumberland Dark Sky Park and the larger Northumberland National Park, underwent several tests to determine its serenity, including measuring its distance from flight paths and using a sound meter to detect noises. Only the hum of Cox’s own electronic equipment was picked up by the sensitive device, together with the occasional brush of skin as he flicked away super silent insects. Unsurprisingly, given its tranquillity, the hillock isn’t the easiest place to reach. A visit involves wading through a 1.5-mile peat bog, so it’s only for truly dedicated silence seekers!
Fortunately, the surrounding Kielder Water and Forest Park is a lot easier to access, so if you’re looking to escape the bustle of everyday life with a forest holiday, then our Kielder Forest accommodation might be just the answer. We’ve chosen a few beauty spots in the Kielder Forest where you can disconnect from the noise of the real world and enjoy some much-needed peace, quiet and solitude for a while. Discover Northumberland and our suggestions for the top ten things to do in our handy guides to this wonderfully wild part of the North of England. Or, if you’re already craving the blissful sound of silence, you can jump right into our collection of holiday cottages in the Kielder Forest by clicking the button below.
Kielder cottages
Discover the magical waterfall of Hindhope Linn
A real hidden gem of the Kielder Water and Forest Park, Hindhope Linn is a spectacular waterfall nestled in a quiet, enchanting dell. This secret spot can be found via a 1.25-mile walking trail from Blakehopeburnhaugh which meanders beneath the fragrant canopies of old Scots pine and larch.
Why not bring along a paperback and spend the afternoon immersed in this tranquil setting, with nothing but the soothing sound of the dazzling falls for company? After dipping your toes in the cool pool of water, reward your forest adventure with a tasty picnic or, if you’ve still the energy to burn, continue along the Pennine Way long-distance footpath, accessible from the car park. This is a nice moderate Kielder Forest walk for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Experience a truly dark sky at Kielder Observatory
Visit Kielder Forest at night and discover wonders you could never have imagined within the finest dark skies in England. Thanks to minimal light pollution, the forest park sits within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and is a haven for stargazers.
While it can be admired from anywhere within the park, the best spot to soak up the infinite beauty of this starry night sky is from the Kielder Observatory. This remote structure houses two huge telescopes that become your eyes into the universe, revealing planets, galaxies and the captivating Milky Way. For a peaceful and romantic evening, why not bring along a blanket, camping chairs and a warm flask of cocoa and linger into the night? Perhaps you’ll spot a shooting star or, if you’re really lucky, the northern lights!
Immerse yourself in nature at Bakethin Nature Reserve
Found at the northern end of Kielder Water, Bakethin Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife and birds. Managed by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, this is a beautiful oasis in which to spend some quiet time, marvelling at wildfowl, osprey, otters, lizards and dragonflies. Retreat to the bird hide where you might catch sight of barnacle geese en-route to or from the Arctic, or goshawk during their mesmerising courtship.
A variety of pathways allow visitors to explore the surrounding woodland, as well as the historic Kielder Viaduct which offers an excellent viewpoint over the reservoir and reserve. And, if you’re visiting Bakethin with your family, there’s a brilliant dipping platform at the pond where kids can hunt for fascinating water creatures.
Take a step back in time at Sidwood
Sidwood lies in the heart of the Kielder Forest, on the western side of the Tarset Burn. It was formerly part of an old estate, and ancient tree and ornamental species remain from this time. Two waymarked walking trails wind their way through the woodland, perfect for a serene stroll.
The Tarset Bastle Trail transports you back to the turbulent days of the Border raiders or Reivers, uncovering one of the best sites in Britain for preserved peles or bastles (medieval fortified farmhouses). The second, shorter trail, known as the Sidwood Trail, follows the Tarset Burn south past the site where Sidwood House once stood and through the old estate plantations. Be sure to bring some nibbles with you as there’s a lovely picnic area beneath the trees where you can rest your feet after your walk.
Take to the biking trails
Kielder Water and Forest Park can be a major draw for fans of extreme cycling. Although some of the trails suffered storm damage at the end of 2021, there are still plenty of trails for all. While some routes remain closed, an increasing number are being restored then reopened as time progresses. Check this link for the latest updates.
Based all around the lake, there is a good spread of trails for mountain bikers of all abilities. There is even a black trail at Kielder Forest and a training loop for novices at Kielder Castle too.
Enjoy a peaceful escape in our Kielder Forest accommodation
Enjoy Kielder Forest drives, walking, cycling and horse riding from our self-catering Kielder cottages, surrounded by the freshest air, cleanest rivers and darkest skies in Britain. Around 700 miles of footpaths take in stunning landscapes from Hadrian’s Wall to the Cheviot Hills.
So, if you’re captivated by the thought of a peaceful retreat up north and wondering where to stay in Kielder Forest, have a browse of our cosy accommodation. From romantic boltholes for couples to spacious holiday lets for the whole family, you’re sure to find a rejuvenating place to relax and unwind within our collection. Just click the button below!
Kielder Forest cottages