The key characteristics of the Cheviots are. . .

4. Cheviots

The key characteristics of the Cheviots are:

• Smooth sinuous cluster of rounded hills which are geologically and topographically distinct.

Wild, open, windswept landscape, dominated by broad moorland horizons, and almost totally devoid of settlement.

• Extensive rolling plateaux of semi-natural grass moor and heather moorland, with the summit characterised by mixed areas of blanket bog and heather, and by granitic ‘tors’.

• Deep ravines and rocky outcrops with dramatic scree slopes on northern flanks of Cheviots. Distinctive features of glacial erosion including meltwater channels and ice-gouged hollows.

• Coniferous woodland plantations on some plateau tops and upper valley slopes.

• Treeless upper hillsides of coarse `white' grassland and heather moorland. Lower, steeper slopes have a greener appearance indicative of more productive grassland.

• Steep sided valleys, with fast-flowing burns radiate from the Cheviots. Relict semi-natural broadleaved woodland, gorse scrub, and species-rich meadow grassland characterise the valleys, which provide sheltered sites for dispersed farmsteads and small hamlets.

• Extensive tracts of well preserved, highly-visible and buried prehistoric landscapes, with hillforts, settlements and extensive prehistoric field systems.

• Perceptions of remoteness and solitude are affected by military training and live firing in particular.

• Military training including live firing.

For further details on this character area and for an introduction to the region, please see the PDF documents in the box at the top right hand side of this page.