A lovely crag tucked away in a sheltered wooded valley to the west of Belford. Unlike the continuous edge of the nearby Bowden Doors, Back Bowden consists of a series of separate buttresses spread along the valley side, tailing off into some woods. The sheltered nature of the place means it can get a bit hot and fly-blown in humid conditions but it also makes a top venue on cold clear days. Many of the routes here range from hard to very hard though there are enough easier offerings scattered around the cliff to make a visit worthwhile by most folks, whatever their aspirations.
ACCESS - There have been problems here in the past with people blocking access to the gate which, understandably, has annoyed the landowner. His solution is simple, you block his gate and he will move you car. To avoid future access problems PLEASE PARK CONSIDERATELY.
Routes
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59 trad routes (D...E9) Graded List of Routes List of First Ascents |        | ||
| Buttress (click for routes) | No. of Routes | Route Type | Sunshine or shade |
Approach walk | Other | Page |
| Merlin The leaning mass of the Merlin Wall is one of the most impressive bits of rock in Northumberland -... |
12 | Trad |
No sun |
Downhill 5 mins |
326 | |
| The Witch The Witch The attractive slab running rightwards from Holly Tree Corner has a good selection of... |
13 | Trad |
Sun from mid-morning |
Downhill 5 mins |
328 | |
| On the Verge The attractive hanging slab bound to either side by a easy groove lines. The fine set of routes on... |
11 | Trad |
Sun from mid-morning |
Downhill 5 mins |
- | |
| Tube The impressive buttress that towers over the fence is covered in fine routes plus many variations... |
9 | Trad |
Sun from mid-morning |
Downhill 5 mins |
330 | |
| Roof Route The first crag reached from the parking has a good set of climbs including a trio of Green Spot... |
14 | Trad |
Sun from mid-morning |
Downhill 5 mins |
331 | |
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