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Explore North Northumberland

Covering all grounds.

From tidal islands to rugged hilltops, North Northumberland has it all; off-the-beaten-track walking routes , rare wildlife and mysterious, historic sites are just a few of its draws. Scattered throughout these hidden gems , are picture-perfect villages , where you can pick up information on your spectacular surroundings and local attractions . You’ll enjoy mile after mile of white sandy beaches , with ancient castles or villages as their backdrop - this whole stretch of coastline is officially designated as an ‘ Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ’, which we think sums it up pretty well.  Wander through bustling market towns and uncover hoards of history with lesser-known castle remains, fortified town walls and ancient sites . Once home to the Anglo-Saxon kings of Northumbria, clues to those ancient civilisations can be found in the mysterious rock art that dots the northern part of the county. There is also Yeavering Bell, a hill fort built by ancient people on the edge of the Cheviot Hills . If you're a keen birdwatcher , head to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne where you'll see a variety of rare bird life including the Marsh Harrier and Osprey. Or, head to Seahouses Harbour to take a boat trip to the Farne Islands for more wildlife spotting and see puffins, grey seals and even dolphins.

Stay in North Northumberland

• B&Bs and guest houses
• Caravan and camp sites
• Cottages and self-catering
• Holiday Home Ownership
• Hostels and camping barns
• Hotels and Inns
• Motorhome Hire
• Self catering agency

Lucker Mill House B&B

West Ord Holiday Cottages

South Meadows Holiday Park

South Meadows Glamping

Glororum Caravan Park

St. Coombs Farmhouse

Laverock Law Cottages & Glamping

Market Cross Guest House

Till Fishing Cottages

8 Mill Wharf

Lucker Mill Shepherd's Huts

Border Holiday Homes

Outchester & Ross Farm Cottages

Camping at Budle Hall

Ness Street Holiday Cottage

Shearling Shepherd's Huts

Templars Cottage

Glebe House and Glebe Cottage

The Tankerville Arms

Budle Hall B&B and Self-Catering Cottages

Turner Cottage

Yearle House & Cottages

Elm Bank Coastal Park

Hope Park West

Rose Cottage

Eider Duck Cottage

Also of interest

Berwick-upon-Tweed Northumberland

Ford and Etal

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Northumberland

NORTHUMBERLAND, A LAND OF MYTHS AND LEGENDS

Unearth historical myths and local legends as you tour northumberland’s stunning natural landscapes and built heritage..

Known for its rich traditions and the distinctive character of its people, Northumberland is the northernmost county of England and stretches over almost 2,000 square miles of breathtaking countryside, award-winning coastlines, rolling hills and charming market towns.

Where to Stay

Food & drink, landmarks & attractions, things to do.

Follow in Roman footsteps along Emperor Hadrian’s mighty frontier and relive their story as you chart the world-famous Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site from coast to coast across the county.

Delve into a turbulent past in one of the area’s many enchanted castles, or catch the tides and head over the causeway out to The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the cradle of Christianity in England.

For the ultimate get-away-from-it-all experience, discover the dark skies of the Northumberland National Park and stay in the Sky Den, your own personal stargazing lodge in the Kielder Water and Forest Park.

Discover a land rich in magical and mystical tales – visit  Northumberland .

Magical Light Trails in North East England 

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Alfresco Summer Nights in the North East

Other places to go, south shields, tees valley, tynemouth & whitley bay.

Simply enter your email in the box below to sign up to the Visit North East England newsletter for the latest destination information, special offers and news from North East England.

15 top things to do in Northumberland, from beaches to Hadrian's Wall

Feb 11, 2022 • 11 min read

Hadrian's Wall is just one of Northumberland's historic wonders © Duncan Andison / Getty Images

The northernmost county in  England has an off-the-radar feel that’s rare to find on this otherwise bustling island. Much of the pristine coastline of Northumberland is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its edge-of-the-world light has drawn in travelers for centuries, from early Christian saints to great Romantic painters.

The county’s interior is no less beguiling: a place of vast, untouched landscapes, remote walking paths, and gloriously dark skies. But don’t be fooled by all this tranquility – Northumberland played a pivotal role in English history, and its battle-filled past is borne out by its catalog of ancient ruins and crumbling castles.

These days, invading Romans and Vikings and feuding royal families have been replaced by visiting horticulturists, hungry foodies, hikers and Harry Potter fans, lured by the region’s cameos in the movie franchise.

When planning your trip, be aware that many attractions go into hibernation during the chilly winter months. The arrival of spring is the time to pull on your sturdy walking shoes and get stuck into the best things to do in Northumberland.

Behold Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle ’s ramparts, watchtowers, and storybook keep sprawl over a dolerite bluff overlooking a beautiful sweep of beach. This Norman fortress could have gone the way of the region’s other time-toppled strongholds, but 19th-century industrialist Lord Armstrong snapped it up for a bargain price, then spent a fortune on its restoration. His descendants still live within its hefty stone walls. 

Visitors can enjoy a fascinating glimpse into Northumberland’s battle-sieged past by touring the staterooms, dungeons and grounds. Book the elegant self-catering apartment in the bell tower and you can stay in chambers that once hosted medieval kings and queens. Be sure to clamber over the grassy dunes below the bluff – the view of the castle from the powder-soft sands is one of England’s loveliest vistas. 

Seek seals and puffins on the Farne Islands

Piercing the North Sea a couple of miles off the Northumberland coast, the Farne Islands have provided sanctuary to shipwreck survivors and saints over the centuries. Today, these isolated isles are an important haven for wildlife – inquisitive seals, clown-billed puffins, and some 100,000 other seabirds come to these soot-colored outcrops to breed.

To get close to this photogenic crowd, board a boat in the village of Seahouses. Trips run all year, weather permitting; tours with Billy Sheil and Serenity are popular choices. Although the waters are invariably choppy, and a windproof coat is nearly always needed, you can enjoy a gentler ride from May to August, with almost guaranteed puffin and seal sightings.

From April to September, it’s possible to spend an hour exploring the National Trust-managed island of Inner Farne on foot – just bring a hat as protection from swooping Arctic terns.

Take a pilgrimage to the Holy Island

The tiny tidal island of Lindisfarne, cut off from the mainland twice a day by the rhythms of the sea , became the unlikely center of English Christianity during the Early Middle Ages. Still known as the Holy Island, the isle is dominated by the mottled medieval ruins of Lindisfarne Priory marking the spot where St Aidan founded the island’s original monastery in 635 CE. Reaching Lindisfarne today involves walking or driving along a narrow causeway that is submerged at high tide; check crossing times before traveling. 

On the other side of the harbor, a steady trickle of cagoule-clad daytrippers flows uphill to lovely Lindisfarne Castle . Sure-footed walkers can continue to the secluded northern beaches, but it's just as rewarding to take a gentle stroll around the Gertrude Jekyll Garden , past the sheds fashioned from upturned herring boats near the harbor, and on through the island's single picture-postcard village. Pause for a warming flat white at Pilgrims Coffee and stock up on Lindisfarne Mead at St Aidan’s Winery before the sea sweeps back across the causeway.

Experience the magic of Alnwick Castle

Dating back to 1096, Alnwick Castle (pronounced AN-ik) boasts parklands landscaped by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and paintings by several Italian Old Masters. But it’s arguably more famous for its role as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. The imposing fortress has proudly embraced its celebrity status, with castle tours highlighting filming locations; budding wizards can even undergo broomstick training in the same spot where Harry learned to fly.  

Developing the 4.8-hectare plot next door was a labor of love for the current Duchess of Northumberland. Alnwick Garden is now a separate attraction, with an enchanting web of contemporary, bloom-filled enclosures. At its heart is a spectacular 21-tiered water feature, which occasionally drenches admirers with its dancing jets. The garden’s other showstoppers include a sinister poison garden, a bamboo labyrinth, and the inviting Treehouse restaurant .

Feel a warm glow in Alnwick’s town center

While in the area, swing by the handsome cobbled center of Alnwick (or make it your Northumberland base). The people of the North East are known for their warmth and friendliness, and there are few better places to put this to the test than in one of the town’s cheery, hop-scented pubs. Close by, friendly volunteers welcome families to the Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery with kid-friendly trails and hands-on activities. Housed in the old rail station, Barter Books also offers snug shelter from the rain; buy a second-hand novel to read by the store’s open fire as miniature trains rattle over the shelves. 

Stroll the coastal path to Dunstanburgh Castle

The crumbling twin towers of 14th-century Dunstanburgh Castle can only be reached on foot, but it's a lovely walk. Start at the fishing village of Craster, and follow the Northumberland Coast Path north through flat, grassy farmland dotted with cows and sheep. As you spy the romantic ruins brooding in the background, you’ll understand why JMW Turner kept returning to this strip of coast in his atmospheric watercolors. Keep binoculars handy in case seals or dolphins are bobbing about in the sea.

Although the two-mile walk is the main draw, you can buy tickets to enter the English Heritage-managed castle and scurry up one of the castle towers for sweeping views. Carry on across the splendid horseshoe beach of Embleton Bay for a fresh crab sandwich at the Ship Inn , or turn back towards The Jolly Fisherman at Craster. 

Feast on some of England's freshest seafood

The North Sea’s cold, mineral-rich waters produce some of England’s finest seafood. Keep your eyes peeled for menu entries involving Craster crabs and Lindisfarne oysters. A good place to slurp them down is The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh. Over in Craster, you’ll find another regional delicacy: Craster kippers. For over a century, L Robson & Sons has produced these cured fish in traditional smokehouses.

The little food van by the village car park serves them glistening with butter in a soft bread bun. For fresh-off-the-boat seafood, make a beeline for Amble, where The Old Boathouse and its sister restaurant, The Fish Shack, plate up elegant fish and chips and piled-high sharing platters. 

Dilly-dally in Amble

Come to Amble for the delicious seafood, but stay to enjoy the family-friendly sights around the River Coquet estuary. By booking ahead, you can join a puffin cruise around lighthouse-topped Coquet Island. Afterward, take a stroll around the harbor, admiring its pastel-colored beach huts, and browse the wooden retail pods , which sell everything from local crafts to cheese.

A playground hides to the south of the harbor, and kids will also be delighted by the award-winning ice cream at Spurreli . Grown-ups may be equally pleased by the fresh craft ales at Brewis Beer Co . 

Bask (or at least wander) on the North East's epic beaches

Coming to Northumberland without visiting a beach would be like going to Paris and not setting foot in a pavement cafe. Bamburgh and Embleton Bay, with their romantic castle vistas, are two of the most popular choices for sand-seekers, yet you may find them occupied by only a handful of families and the odd dog walker. For variety, test out the soft sands of pretty Alnmouth, head south to pristine Cresswell Beach, or decamp to painter L S Lowry’s favored strands at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.

Overlooking the golden swoop of Beadnell Bay Beach are three 18th-century lime kilns; once the haunt of smugglers, they’re now where fisherfolk stash their lobster pots. To taste the day’s catch, check in for Lobster Night at the Bait at Beadnell on Thursdays (except over winter). The bay’s sheltered waters are a good spot for sailing and watersports; KA Kitesurfing Adventure Sports offers kitesurfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and more, with plenty of activities aimed at kids. 

Hike along Hadrian’s Wall

In 122 AD, the Roman Emperor Hadrian decided to make clear to the Picts in the north where his authority began. The result was a 73 mile-long stone frontier lunging from coast to coast across northern England (well south of the modern Scottish border). Northumberland is home to the longest surviving stretch, which tilts its way through captivating landscapes, with some fascinating fort and temple ruins en route.

It’s possible to ramble the entire Hadrian’s Wall National Trail . If that sounds a tad ambitious, start out with the dramatic section at Housesteads Roman Fort & Museum within Northumberland National Park. Enthusiasts can continue the deep dive into history by continuing to the nearby live excavation site at Vindolanda Roman Fort & Museum . 

Explore Roman ruins and sup craft beer in Corbridge

A couple of miles south of Hadrian’s Wall are the ruins of Roman Corbridge , once the most northerly town in the Roman Empire. It’s still possible to tramp down its timeworn high street, gaining a sense of how the local craftspeople, traders, and soldiers lived side by side in this cosmopolitan hub two millennia ago. The excellent onsite museum is home to the Corbridge Hoard, a collection of arms and armor that represents one of the most significant Roman finds in England. 

A short stroll along the banks of the River Tyne will bring you to the modern-day town. Snoop around its independent book, antique, and craft stores, then duck into The Pele Tower for a pint of local ale. This three-storied micropub feels a bit like a Game of Thrones prop, and it was once a fortified medieval vicarage.

Marvel at the ingenuity of Cragside

Set atop a rugged hill and framed in June by a kaleidoscope of rhododendrons, Cragside House is impressive enough from the outside, with its magnificent Arts and Craft exterior. Yet, the inside is even more astounding. This was the first house in the world to be powered by electricity, and its pioneering owners stuffed it full of every possible Victorian invention, running off an innovative hydroelectricity system. Keep an eye out for an early dishwasher and a water-powered rotating spit in the kitchen. 

It’s possible to spend an entire day touring the house and its 1000-acre grounds. All the same, try to stop by the nearby town of Rothbury with its lovely high street, crammed with independent stores. Bewicks Kitchen & Coffee House is a great place to recharge. 

Dig down into mining history

A trip to the Woodhorn Museum is a great way to delve into the region’s industrial past. Located on the edge of Queen Elizabeth II County Park , on the site of what was once the largest pit village in the world, the museum's interactive exhibits and immersive mock-ups give a powerful sense of what life would have been like for the 2,000 coal miners who worked below ground here.

Be sure to look out for artworks by the "Pitmen Painters," an amateur art group who created a striking record of life in Northumberland’s mining communities in the mid-20th century. With its mix of indoor galleries and dog-friendly outdoor spaces, Woodhorn is a great choice for a day of changeable weather – something fairly common in this part of the country.

Admire surprising artworks at Kielder Water and Forest Park

Kielder Water and Forest Park is home to the largest man-made lake in northern Europe and it's a scenic summer playground for watersports fans. But culture vultures flock here too, lured by the large-scale art installations that litter the 26-mile shoreline.

Hire a bike if you want to see them all, although manageable walking trails take in some of the highlights. Perhaps the most memorable work is Silvas Capitalis by American art collective, SIMPARCH – this giant wooden head screams out from the forest and you can enter its mouth and peek from its haunted eyes.  

Stargaze at Northumberland International Dark Sky Park

The night skies above Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water and Forest Park have been awarded gold tier status by the International Dark-Sky Association , making this the largest International Dark-Sky Park in the UK. On clear nights in autumn and winter, you have only to gaze upwards after sunset to be wowed by the shimmering show.

Kielder Observatory runs expert-led events if you need some help navigating the galaxies (book well ahead). Alternatively, sign up for a stargazing night at Twice Brewed Inn – you can eat supper, marvel at twinkling constellations at the onsite observatory, then return for a pint in the cozy bar before heading upstairs for bed.

You may also like: Bards and Roman baths: best places in England The ultimate guide to hiking Hadrian's Wall 8 best hikes to discover England's beautiful countryside

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Places to visit in Northumberland

Historical sites to take you back through time, vast landscapes to explore, and wildlife to make you go ‘aw’. That’s Northumberland. Countless Northumberland castles jostle for attention - ‘proper’ castles with battlements and portcullises, ghostly ruins guarding endless sandy beaches, and ones that echo with ancient footsteps. There is a plethora of things to do in Northumberland for history fans, hikers, mountain bikers and romantics alike, from ambling along the Northumberland coast to glamping and camping in the county’s endless countryside, but one of the best places to visit in Northumberland of all is the Farne Islands, where dozens of puffins await to melt your hearts. At night, turn your gaze upwards to see millions of stars pinpricking the famed dark skies in Northumberland’s National Park.

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Gold winner: Kidlandlee Holiday Cottages

Go off-grid with a luxury self-catering break in Northumberland National Park – winner of the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year Award 2023.

Gold winner: Grey Seal and Seabird Cruise, Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours

Winner of the Experience of the Year Award 2023, jump aboard a boat tour to spot wildlife around the unspoilt Farne Islands.

7 things to do on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Uncover mystical history at Lindisfarne Castle or spot seals on the secluded North Shore Walk during a trip to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Explore captivating Alnwick Castle

Walk through history and admire world-class art at this fascinating castle, then stroll through spectacular floral displays at The Alnwick Garden.

Location: Alnwick, Northumberland

Star gazing like a Roman at Cawfields Roman Wall

Built in AD122, Hadrian’s Wall was once the largest frontier in the Roman Empire and remained that way for 300 years.

Location: Haltwhistle, Northumberland

Lose yourself in the Allen Valleys

Strap on your walking boots and explore a countryside full of contrasts. Prepare to be blown away by this picturesque part of the North Pennines.

Location: Allendale, Northumberland

Enjoy dog friendly days out at Belsay Hall

Explore the magnificent gardens of this dog friendly attraction with your four legged friend.

Location: Belsay, Northumberland

Stay in a cottage built by an amazing Victorian inventor

Experience Cragside in Northumberland as many have never seen it before – by staying in the spectacular and dramatic grounds of the Cragside Estate.

Location: Rothbury, Northumberland

Sip Earl Grey where it was created: Howick Hall

Earl Grey tea is enjoyed – usually at around 4pm – all over the world, but few know it was invented in Northumberland for Charles, 2nd Earl Grey.

Location: Howick, Northumberland

Discover a seaside shopping paradise

Amble is a shopper's paradise, a haven for lovers of local produce, crafts and gifts. Perfect for presents, but don’t forget to treat yourself!

Location: Amble, Northumberland

Get kippered in Craster

Craster is the acclaimed home of the kipper – a breakfast favourite of the Queen. But there’s more to Craster than fishy tales.

Location: Craster, Northumberland

Discover Howick’s heavenly history

With a famous cup of tea, a stunning garden and its very own bathing house, the haven of Howick Hall is one of Northumberland’s true hidden gems.

Birds, boats, batter and beer at Seahouses

Visit the 1843 original Fisherman’s kitchen, sup a pint of Farne Island Ale in a beer garden or indulge in Robson Green’s favourite ice cream.

Location: Seahouses, Northumberland

Build sandcastles at Bamburgh Beach

Do you know your cockles from your winkles? St. Aidan and Grace Darling certainly did. And what better place to learn than on Bamburgh Beach.

Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland

Admire the picturesque views from Housesteads Roman Fort

Housesteads is the most iconic of all the Wall sites and the views and Roman remains are spectacular.

Location: Housesteads, Northumberland

Walk the Wall at Steel Rigg

Take a walk around Steel Rigg and Crag Lough to see how the Romans used the natural landscape to maximise the strength of the Empire's frontier.

Location: Steel Rigg, Northumberland

Dig for buried treasure at Roman Vindolanda

See live archaeological excavations before your eyes at the ancient fort of Vindolanda.

Location: Vindolanda, Northumberland

Discover a secluded fortified manor house at Aydon Castle

Over 900 years old and pretty much unaltered since then, Aydon Castle sits proudly upon its crag; a true survivor of some rough times and visitors.

Location: Corbridge, Northumberland

Dine like Lords and Ladies at Langley Castle

For those with a taste for the finer things in life, Langley Castle Hotel near the historic market town of Hexham is the ideal gastro getaway.

Location: Langley-on-Tyne, Northumberland

Enjoy a guilt-free weekend away with serious green credentials

Going green can be romantic... so spoil your other half with a romantic weekend break at Battlesteads, ‘Northumberland’s greenest hotel’.

Location: Wark, Northumberland

Walk through sand dunes to Bamburgh Castle

This seat of the former Kings of Northumbria tells a spellbinding tale from its awe-inspiring position on the edge of Northumberland’s coast.

Camp next to Hadrian's Wall

This isn't just any wall, this is an impressive piece of roman architecture.

Location: Melkridge, Cumbria

Go seal and puffin spotting on the Farne Islands

Visit Farne Islands to see thousands of seabirds and a huge Grey seal colony.

Location: Farne Islands, Northumberland

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Best places to visit in Northumberland: top attractions, and places to stay, eat and drink

Here’s our low down of the best places to visit in Northumberland so you can start planning your visit to this historic region in Northern England, known to many as ‘castle country’

The northernmost county in England, Northumberland is a land of big, starry skies, castles, plus plenty of cosy boltholes within whose historic walls you can sit out the changeable weather. Here’s our guide to the very best places to visit in Northumberland.

See the Feb/March 2023 issue of Discover Britain for our 38-page Northumberland travel special or read on for even more ideas for getting the most out of the region.

The best places to visit in Northumberland

A region that bears the marks of its former settlers and inhabitants more than most, in Northumberland you can walk amid Roman ruins, discover Anglo-Saxon strongholds, learn about the trail of destruction left by Viking invaders, and visit the cradle of English Christianity on the ‘Holy Isle’ of Lindisfarne.

Hadrian’s Wall

Top of our list for the best places to visit in Northumberland, and stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, this once formidable barrier was built to protect the northwest frontier of the Roman Empire. Now looked after by English Heritage, today, though much of it is in ruin, there are still 20 sites along its length where you can learn about what life was once like for the soldiers tasked with guarding it in the dramatic and often unforgiving landscape.

The Elizabethan Walls, Berwick-upon-Tweed 

One of the best examples of a walled town in all of Europe, Berwick’s mile-and-a-quarter of Elizabethan-era walls still stand proud hundreds of years later, despite Berwick-upon-Tweed being the most contested town in Britain, having switched hands between the English and the Scottish no fewer than 14 times.

Vindolanda Roman Fort, Hexham

Vindolanda was the first Roman frontier in the north and it actually pre-dates Hadrian’s Wall, which lies just north of it. Occupied for over 300 years it was both an important fort and village for soldiers and their families. The Vindolanda site today is one of the best places to visit in Northumberland, with a spectacular world-class Roman museum to explore the story of the people who lived there and see the hundreds of artefacts found at the site, as well as a chance to look around the ‘live’ archaeological site itself.

Ad Gefrin, Wooler 

When it opens in spring 2023, this world-class heritage attraction which somehow plans to fuse Anglo-Saxon history with modern-day whisky distilling, will draw visitors back to when this part of Northumberland was once one of the major seats of power for the Anglo-Saxons. This is set to be one of the best places to visit in Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick 

In recent years it may be best known for training wizards how to use their broomsticks, or for starring in Downton Abbey specials, but Alnwick’s esteemed more than 950 years of history, which has been linked to the Percy family for much of it, has many far more interesting stories and artefacts within its resplendent walls.

In our new issue Jeremy Flint went to the castle to interview the Duke of Northumberland and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the castle. Read the interview here.   

The Alnwick Garden

Created as a separate attraction to the castle by the present Duchess of Northumberland, who began the project in 1997 Alnwick Garden is the third most visited public garden in the UK, covering over 26 acres. With over 4,000 varieties of plants to discover, including a few deadly and dangerous ones in the Poison Garden, this is a delight for all the senses.

Dunstanburgh Castle

Standing on a remote headland along the Northumberland coast, this castle, first build in the early 14 th century, would once have been a grand palace, designed to irk King Edward II by one of his openly hostile barons. Today, it stands in romantic ruin after being besieged twice during the War of the Roses and a walk along the craggy coastal path to the village of Craster can be rewarded with some of the famous local kippers.

Lindisfarne Castle & Abbey 

If you’ve made it all the way to this northern region then there’s really no excuse for not taking the causeway over to the ‘Holy Isle’ of Lindisfarne , one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northumberland and where the famous Gospels were first illustrated at the now ruinous abbey. Another highlight of a visit is Lindisfarne Castle – as close as perfect an Edwardian-style home as you could ever hope to find.

Kielder Observatory, Kielder

Located in Europe’s largest gold-tier protected dark sky park, Kielder Observatory is nestled in the Kielder Water and Forest Park and offers some of the world’s most breathtaking star-gazing. Famed for the ‘Kielder Moment’, the moment that visitors look up at the glittering skies and realise that they’re completely connected to this vast cosmos, this is a must-do on our list of places to visit in Northumberland.

Wild Intrigue, sites across Northumberland

Reconnect with nature again with one of Wild Intrigue’s wildlife experiences and events across Northumberland. Whether its a Dawn Chorus Disco in Newcastle, mixing nature’s dawn orchestra with a silent disco tech, a Bats and Beers night searching for some of Northumberland’s nocturnal wildlife, while enjoying some locally brewed beers, or a Moths and Muffins morning enjoying a delicious breakfast whilst meeting some magical moth species, there is really something for everyone.

Best places to stay in Northumberland

The Coach House, Stay on the Hill 

Set amid the beautiful Northumberland Tyne Valley close to Northumberland National Park, this wing of a Victorian house on a family-owned estate, near Hexham, offers four luxury bedrooms each with a super comfy bed fitted with Egyptian cotton sheets and its own bathroom, which can be hired as a holiday home or as individual rooms. As well as original period features, each room comes with a Freeview TV with DVD player and wifi, and there’s a pretty patio for making the most of the tranquil atmosphere of the estate.

Beach & Quiet holiday cottages, Craster

A stone’s throw from the pretty fishing village of Craster and the spectacular Dunstanburgh Castle, these self-catering holiday cottages are the perfect base for your Northumberland holiday.  Historic Dunstan House, which sleeps up to 18, is Grade II* listed and is bursting with incredible period features, and newly built elegant Hemmel house, which sleeps 6, perfectly combines modern stylings with traditional features. Sleeping four, cosy Stable Cottage is situated in the grounds of Dunstanburgh Castle and, as the old castle stables, and also Grade II listed, is brimming with historic charm.

The Clock Tower, Bamburgh Estate 

Bamburgh Castle is one of the most recognisable landmarks along the region’s coastline and one of the best places to visit in Northumberland. Now you can book a stay in its medieval bell tower, which offers views of Bamburgh beach and the isle of Lindisfarne. Accommodation within the tower’s 1,400-year-old walls is suitably characterful, with velvet sofas, exposed stone walls and antique furnishings complemented by William Morris & Co fabrics and modern artworks. It’s delightfully eclectic and the three-bed holiday home can be booked through the wonderful Crabtree & Crabtree. Best of all? Guests get free entry to the castle’s state rooms, plus access to the castle grounds.

Twice Brewed Inn, Hexham

A post-walk beer-tasting at the Twice Brewed Brewhouse can be followed by a classic home-cooked meal in the comfortable restaurant and new conservatory of the Twice Brewed Inn . There are also some comfortable rooms for overnight stays, with the stargazing, supper and slumber package offering a two-course meal and a stargazing adventure, where you can learn from the experts in the Northumberland Dark Sky Park and use the latest telescopes to watch the night sky from the observatory (available from October to March).

The Walls, Berwick-upon-Tweed

This B&B is set within a gorgeously restored period townhouse perched don the Edwardian Walls quarter of the town. Ask for the Tweed room with views of the river from its Georgian windows and put your faith in Stephen and Louise Scott, who will make you feel right at home.

The Holly Bush Inn, Greenhaugh, Near Kielder

Located within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, this inn, or ‘proper pub’ offers comfortable en-suite rooms, a roaring fire, good grub, and the chance to catch a glimpse of the Milky War, or perhaps even another galaxy.

Eshott Hall, Morpeth 

For something a little grander, try this country house hotel on the outskirts of a quiet rural village. With rolling lawns and woodland that beckons you in (look out for red squirrels), this 17 th -century home has been painstakingly restored by its current owners, Robert & Gina Parker. There are 11 en-suite rooms, while the Drawing Room and Library are perfect for afternoon tea, or a post-amble tipple and the on-site restaurant serves up superb seasonal produce.

The Cookie Jar, Alnwick 

Very well placed for visitors to Alnwick Castle , this boutique hotel is set within a historic building but comes with decidedly modern amenities – think drench showers in all the rooms, Hypnos beds, and Penhaligon’s toiletries. The Bistro is a great spot for dinner after a day’s exploring, and there’s even a firepit on the outdoor terrace for those who wish to enjoy their surroundings (and the night sky) a little longer.

Barrasford Arms, Hexham

Dating back to the 19th century in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country, this charming pub with rooms overlooks the spectacular Houghton Castle and is perfectly located for exploring the area. With cosy, comfortable rooms and award-winning food made using ingredient’s from the hotel’s own kitchen garden, this is a home away from home for your stay.

Crabtree & Crabtree Holiday Lettings, across Northumberland

The undisputed leader in holiday home rentals in Northumberland, Crabtree and Crabtree boast a portfolio of stunning properties across the county. All stylish, self-catered and in stunning, hand-picked locations, the properties range from grand country houses, to sleek barn conversions and old stone cottages. Many properties are dog-friendly too and some even offer at-home beauty and spa treatments and professional catering.

The best places to eat in Northumberland

Hjem, Hexham

In the village of Wall, close to Hadrian’s Wall, Hjem is probably Northumberland’s finest restaurant – it’s certainly it’s most unexpected. Run by a Swedish-English husband-and-wife team, Hjem has been awarded a Michelin star for its ‘high-quality’ Nordic-English cooking and its placement within a charming English inn (which also has rooms), only adds to the wonderful experience.

The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

If there’s one thing the coastal village of Craster is known for, it’s kippers, so it would be remiss to visit the region and not come and sample them. This stone-walled Victorian inn has been a popular place with fisherman for more than a century and a half, so if you want to try Craster kippers, or indeed any other local seafood delicacies, like Lindisfarne oysters, then you couldn’t be in better company, with it all being freshly hauled in from the North Sea each morning.

The Old Boathouse, Amble

If you’re looking for a place that serves seafood platters that will make your mouth water and have the next table ordering what you’re having, then this is it – their platter includes a whole lobster alongside seabream, oysters, you name it. It’s won awards, lots of them so it pays to book ahead. If you can’t get a table, try the Fish Shack nearby.

The Queen’s Head, Berwick

At this atmospheric pub, you dine beneath exposed timber beams, but it’s about more than the warm setting here – the pub takes its food seriously, with all produce coming from local suppliers, and dishes such as pan-fried salmon or seafood stew are better than the fare you find in most pubs.

The Bosk Restaurant, Alnwick

Stunnning architecture, big cosy chairs, handmade chandeliers and rustic, elegant interiors welcome you into this friendly, stylish restaurant in the Beamish valley. Serving up delicious food, including homebaked pizzas, fresh coffee and an excellent selection of wines and beers is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the beautiful Northumberland countryside.

The best places to visit in Northumberland: a tour of castle country

New issue: issue 232 of Discover Britain is out now!

Alnwick Castle: an inside tour with the Duke of Northumberland

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Northumberland

Why we love Northumberland

It’s always a great time to visit Northumberland. In spring, thousands of puffins flock to its islands, resulting in one of Britain’s greatest wildlife spectacles. In summer, its beaches are glorious: much of the coast is a nature reserve, with grass-topped dunes and wide golden sands. Autumn brings leaf-crunching walks through Northumberland National Park, plus festivals and fireworks galore. As for winter, simple pleasures abound: long pub lunches, frost-nipped trails and some of the best stargazing on Earth.

Northumberland is England’s northernmost county, and it sits right on the border with Scotland. It’s historical hot property, a land long fought over by kingdoms and invaders – evident in its many castles, citadels and the 2,000-year-old Hadrian’s Wall.

From Roman fortresses to enchanting isles, here’s where to go on your Northumberland holiday.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Explore an ancient wonder

Built by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago, Hadrian’s Wall is one of the world’s greatest feats of ancient engineering – and Northumberland is home to the biggest section. Hop on the AD122 Country Bus to tour its spine-tingling Roman relics, or try a long-distance challenge: the Hadrian’s Cycleway serves up 174 miles (280km) of glorious countryside and historic gems. Or discover the history of Hadrian’s Wall on a full-day tour with a local guide dressed in authentic costume of the era.

VisitBritain/Yin Sun Photography

Walk the wild coast

While Northumberland is famous for its wide sandy beaches, the shore is also dotted with castles and nature reserves. The 62-mile (100km) Northumberland Coast Path encompasses pretty seaside towns, wildlife-rich dunes and bracing clifftops alike, with welcoming B&Bs along the way. It takes 3–7 days in total, though the shorter sections are rewarding too.

VisitBritain/Georgie Sowman

Find your next adventure

Want to try something new? How about horse riding on the beach, scuba diving with seals, or paddleboarding on the England-Scotland border? Maybe you’ll dive into wild waters on a coasteering trip, explore the North Pennines moors, or try Viking-style axe throwing at an outdoor activity centre? If you live for adventure , you’ve come to the right place.

VisitBritain

Make a feathered friend

Puffins ahoy! The Farne Islands , just off the coast, are famous for their year-round wildlife show: from newborn grey seal pups in October, to the springtime spectacle of 35,000 breeding puffins. Meanwhile Lindisfarne, or ‘Holy Island’, is rich in Christian history – with a 12th-century priory and crumbling Lindisfarne Castle. It’s connected to the mainland at low tide, so you can even walk there.

Travel back in time

Northumberland’s fortresses bring its rich history to life – whether you’re dressing up as a Medieval monarch at Bamburgh Castle, being entertained by jesters at Alnwick Castle, or watching knight battles and falconry at Warkworth Castle. Throughout summer, they host outdoor cinema and theatre shows in their atmospheric grounds too.

Look to the stars

On clear evenings, the skies above Northumberland are filled with stars, and the Milky Way and Andromeda Galaxy are even visible without a telescope. Welcome to Britain’s largest Dark Sky Park , which hosts astronomy events year-round: check out Kielder Observatory’s expert-led talks, or visit the Northumberland Dark Skies Festival in February.

Newcastle Half Day Walking Tour

Spend an afternoon is the North East’s biggest city. Take a break from wandering in the countryside to tread the streets of Newcastle on a guided tour.

Book a Newcastle Half Day Walking Tour

Things to do in Northumberland

Choosing an option from the dropdown will automatically update the map listing results to filter by your selection.

Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland

A haven for hikers, cyclists and art lovers, this wild nature reserve has an outdoor sculpture trail and stargazing observatory.

Lindisfarne, Northumberland

This ‘holy island’ attracts pilgrims from all over the world: it’s a peaceful spot, cut off from the mainland at high tide.

Hadrian’s Wall

Combine tangible history with breathtaking walks, museums and glorious countryside along these ancient Roman ramparts.

Bamburgh Castle

Overlooking the golden sands of Bamburgh beach, this magnificent fortress is one of Britain’s biggest inhabited castles.

The Cheviots, Northumberland

On the border between Scotland and England, these rolling hills attract hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders and more.

North East Guides

This expert-led hiking, climbing and orienteering company will take you to Northumberland’s wildest locations.

Horse riding on the Northumberland coast

Saddle up! Northumberland’s wide sandy beaches and beautiful dunes are ideal for exploring on horseback.

VisitBritain/Hilary Dunn

The Potted Lobster Bamburgh

Take your pick from fresh Lindisfarne oysters, beer-battered haddock, locally-caught lobster – and more.

With its golden-sand beach, thriving foodie scene and hilltop castle, this town is a joy to explore.

Sycamore Gap

Hike to this famous sycamore tree, which is surrounded by pristine countryside – right beside Hadrian’s Wall.

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park

Thanks to its minimal light pollution and wide open skies, this is one of Britain’s top stargazing spots.

Kielder Observatory

Barter Books

Set in a historic train station, this bookshop features a cafe, ice cream parlour, and log fires in winter.

KA Adventure Sports

Make a splash on Northumberland’s coastline, with a kayaking, coasteering, paddleboarding or surfing trip.

Nortumberland

The Fifth Point Diving Centre

The wildlife-rich Farne Islands are home to thousands of playful grey seals, as well as shipwrecks galore.

Chris Learwood

Allout Adventures

Hit the trail on a quad biking adventure, sharpen your axe-throwing skills, and explore on a segway safari.

Getty Images/Colin James Stebbing

Woodhorn Museum

Discover Northumberland’s rich coal-mining history via these interactive exhibits, craft workshops and nature trails.

Museums of Northumberland

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

A fascinating insight into Victorian Britain, coastal Northumberland, and the life of a legendary local heroine.

Colin Davison

Bailiffgate Museum

Explore 10,000 years of local history: from regal relics and archaeological finds, to fashions, toys and photography.

Pilgrims Coffee House & Roastery

On the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, this family-run cafe serves ethically-sourced coffees and home-make cakes.

The Treehouse Restaurant

Set in a a charming wood-built treehouse, this restaurant looks like it belongs in a fairytale…

Sean Elliot

Brewis Beer Co

From light hoppy ales to richly dark stout, this friendly brewery has a huge choice of beers on tap.

Brewis Beer

This Warkworth B&B serves freshly-made food in its excellent cafe, and has five boutique bedrooms.

Restaurant Pine

Just a few steps from Hadrian’s Wall, this award-winning restaurant serves decadent tasting menus and afternoon tea.

Dunstanburgh Castle

On a wild coastal headland, this is an epic spot for photography, long walks and spectacular sea views.

Historic England

Roman Army Museum

These state-of-the-art exhibits will add a whole new dimension to your Hadrian’s Wall adventure.

Welcome to Britain’s first ‘smart home’! Built by a Victorian inventor, Cragside was amazingly ahead of its time…

National Trust/Paul Harris

Roman Vindolanda Fort and Museum

Near Hadrian’s Wall, discover a real Roman fortress – and a museum full of incredible finds.

Corbridge Chamber Music Festival

Enjoy classical music performances and cultural events, in venues throughout the pretty town of Corbridge.

Amble Puffin Festival

See newly-hatched chicks on a guided nature walk, and explore the coastline on boat cruises and watersports.

Allendale Tar Bar’l

Hot, hectic and hair-raising, this Northumberland tradition has wowed spectators for over 160 years…

Neil Denham

Farne Islands

This tiny archipelago is big on wildlife – and offers boat cruises, diving trips and kayaking adventures.

Getty Images

Pilgrim's Way

Welcome to one of Britain’s most famous walks, across the sand to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Alamy Stock Photo

Northumberlandia

Climb to the top for views over the countryside and coast, plus food festivals and live entertainment.

The Land Trust / Northumberlandia

The Alnwick Garden

Explore this mix of provocative and traditional landscapes in the heart of Northumberland.

Northern Wilds

From berries to mushrooms, feast on Northumberland’s natural bounty on these terrifically tasty foraging trips.

From high street fashions to independent arts, crafts and jewellery boutiques – you’ll find it all here.

Northumberland County Council (

Surrounded by glorious countryside, this stylish and eco-friendly self-catering lodge has won multiple awards.

Laverock Law Cottages

Take your pick from five secluded countryside properties, from a cosy treehouse to traditional cottages.

Featured things to do

Island escape

They look serene from a distance, but the Farne Islands are a colourful cacophony of seals, puffins, eider ducks and razorbills. Spring is a great time for wildlife cruises.

VisitBritain/SolStock/Getty Images

When the sun is out, hit the beach: Northumberland’s coast is famous for its wide, sugar-soft sands. It’s also a windsurfing hotspot, so why not give it a go?

’Tis the season for live music. In September, Lindisfarne Festival brings a star-studded line-up of DJs, bands and more to Northumberland’s coast.

With its huge sculptures and lofty lookouts, Kielder Water’s art trail is always spectacular, but winter’s frosty paths make it extra magical.

Places to stay in Northumberland

Holiday cottages.

Make yourself at home: you’ll find self-catering cottages throughout the countryside, beside the sea, and in Northumberland’s market towns.

Glamping getaways

For the joy of the great outdoors with a few little luxuries, take your pick from woodland cabins, shepherd’s huts, yurt tents – and more.

Pubs with rooms

Pubs aren’t just for drinking and dining: many of them offer accommodation too, with cosy bedrooms, hearty breakfasts and a warm local welcome.

Explore nearby

From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

Lake District

From the tip of England’s tallest peak to the nation’s deepest lake, this national park is stacked with super-sized scenery.

VisitBritain/Ryan Lomas

Lake District, England

Small and mighty – York is the medieval walled city that really packs a punch.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Getting to Northumberland

Northumberland is located on the boundary between Scotland and England – but you won’t need to show your passport if you’re crossing the border by land. If you’re travelling by public transport , Newcastle provides excellent train links via the East Coast Main Line , with the fastest train from London taking around two hours 40 minutes, and Edinburgh 40 minutes. The closest international airport is in Newcastle.

Getting around

Taking the bus is cheap, easy and convenient – with local services running all over Northumberland, and even to Lindinsfarne (Holy Island) when the tide allows. By train, the Tyne Valley Line connects Newcastle with Carlisle, and runs along the south of Northumberland National Park; check the website for local walks and attractions accessible from its stations.

From short trails to long-distance routes, there are countless cycling trails to explore – and bike hire is available all over the region. Contact Carrylite for luggage transfers.

For the ultimate flexibility, hire a car and follow a scenic road trip like the 39-mile (62km) ​​Northumberland Coastal Route. Local electric charging points are plentiful too.

Northumberland is served by multiple bus operators , such as Go North East , which offers a 25% discount for two people travelling together. Traveline provides real-time bus info.

Want to know more?

Delve deeper into Northumberland’s best things to do and beautiful places to stay, by visiting its official website.

Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Northumberland Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful English county. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Northumberland!

Let’s plan your trip to Northumberland

With more castles than any other county in England, a stunning coastline lined with sandy beaches, pretty towns and villages, a tidal island with a rich cultural history and heritage, the remains of a Roman wall which marked the northernmost boundary of the Holy Roman Empire and a national park which boasts of the cleanest air, cleanest rivers and the darkest skies in England Northumberland in the North East really is the county with it all!

What you will find in this complete Northumberland Travel Guide

Northumberland Travel Guide – Map

Attractions and things to do in northumberland, accommodation in northumberland, when is the best time of year to visit northumberland, what do i need to know to plan the best trip to northumberland, how to get to northumberland, best tours to northumberland, books to read about northumberland, uk travel guides.

10 PRETTY TOWNS TO VISIT IN NORTHUMBERLAND

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO & SEE IN THE NORTH EAST OF ENGLAND

GUIDE TO DRIVING THE NORTHUMBERLAND COASTAL ROUTE

GUIDE TO VISITING THE HOLY ISLAND OF LINDISFARNE

THINGS TO DO IN ALNWICK

GUIDE TO THE BEST CASTLES IN NORTHUMBERLAND

BEST PLACES TO STAY

IN NORTHUMBERLAND

BEST COASTAL COTTAGES IN NORTHUMBERLAND

You can find more accommodation options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

FAQs – Planning your visit to Northumberland

The weather in Northumberland can be unpredictable in every season. It can be cold and windy all year around so it is essential to pack accordingly.

Whilst the summer months can be hot there is always the possibility of a sea fret (a cool mist that covers the coast) and temperatures will drop considerably.

• Carry change for car parking! Prepare to arrive early in the day to secure parking at popular spots (or you may find you have to park some distance away)
• Check for low tide if you are planning to visit Holy Island.
• If you are visiting in summer prepare to enjoy the longer daylight hours (sunset can be as late as 9:50 in the evening!) Longer days means you can fit more into your itinerary!
• Enjoy some traditional food and drink including Craster kippers, Earl Grey tea, Newcastle Brown Ale, ham and pease pudding stotties and pan haggerty.
• Locals are called Geordie and have a very distinct accent.

Option 1 – By car/train/coach from London

Northumberland is England’s northernmost county. It is approximately 470 kms from London and takes around 5 hours by car (I would recommend stops in a number of other destinations on the way though!)

Tip – If you are planning a road trip around the UK the Northumberland Coastal Route is a beautiful drive and very popular especially during the summer months.

The train journey from London ( King’s Cross ) to Newcastle takes around 3 hours and is a lovely trip (stop off in York on the way)

Click here for timetables and prices of train tickets from London to Newcastle .

National Express Coaches travel regularly every day from Victoria Coach Station to Newcastle. This will be the cheapest but also the slowest option.

Option 2 – By car/train/coach from Edinburgh

Driving from Edinburgh to the Northumberland coast only takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, take the train from Edinburgh to Newcastle (around 2 hours) and pick up a hire car to explore Northumberland.

There are also day tours available from Edinburgh (see below for recommendations) which visit a number of top sights and attractions in Northumberland.

Click here for timetables and prices of train tickets from Edinburgh to Newcastle.

Option 3 – Fly into Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is the nearest international airport for visitors to Northumberland. Pick up a hire car at the airport if you plan to explore Northumberland as it is the best way to get around the county.

Read – How to get around the UK (a complete guide to transportation)

If you prefer to take a day tour to the North East of England there are trips available from Edinburgh

• Hadrian’s Wall & Roman Britain 1-Day Tour – Discover the highlights of Roman Britain and Hadrian’s Wall on this small group tour from Edinburgh.
• Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria – Take a scenic, coastal route into the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria. This tour includes a visit to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne which once the most important centre of religious learning in the British Isles and the medieval market town of Alnwick.
• Alnwick Castle & Scottish Borders Day Tour – Cross the Scottish border into England and admire the beautiful scenery of the Borders and explore magnificent Alnwick Castle and its gardens.

Read more – Best books about (or set in) Northumberland

Find more practical tips, resources and inspiration for your UK travel adventures in my UK Travel Guides.

• Durham Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• York Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Bath Travel Guide
• Cornwall Travel Guide
• Dorset & the Jurassic Coast Travel Guide
• The 9 Regions of England (An essential guide for itinerary planning)
• Best UK Staycations (Top Destinations for 2021 & beyond)
• 12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)
• 12 pretty towns and villages in England (+ map & travel tips)

Feeling overwhelmed with the planning process? My step-by-step planning guide is the place to start!

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

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• > Things to do
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• > The Ultimate Northumberland Road Trip: Northumberland 250

The Ultimate Northumberland Road Trip: Northumberland 250

A 250-mile adventure across the land of dark skies, rolling hills and remarkable coastline.

One Northeasterner, inspired by his experiences of driving the Cabot Trail in Canada, the North Coast 500 in Scotland and – most recently – the Icelandic Ring Road (‘trips that are more about the journey than the destination’, he explains), set about creating a logical route to encompass his native Northumberland as a whole – meet NLAND250.

You’ll often find dedicated and considered driving, walking and cycling routes in areas with a wealth of varied and expansive beauty. Take Scotland’s North Coast 500, Devon and Cornwall’s Atlantic Highway and Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Highway, for example. In Northumberland however, there are few routes that allow you to take in the entire historic county and explore its contrasting landscapes. 

The 35-mile stretch from Alnwick to Lindisfarne, which is featured in Lonely Planet’s Epic Drives of The World (a showcase of 50 of the greatest road trips on Earth), is a popular way to take in Northumberland’s beautiful coast, but if you’re looking to explore the dark skies, chocolate box villages and lesser-known landscapes too, you would (until now) have been hard pressed to find a mapped-out route to help you do so.

Read More: How Northumberland Coffee is Serving Speciality Coffee Across the County

The new 250 mile route across Northumberland, which takes in Tweedmouth in the North, Kileder in the West, Allenheads in the South, and the majority of Northumberland’s rugged coast, is now free for the public to download. 

Broken down into four sections – the Northumberland Coast, Cheviot Hills, Dark Skies and North Pennines – it takes in some of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks (think Bamburgh Castle and Sycamore Gap), as well as the more remote and lesser-known parts of the county. Giving you the freedom to explore Northumberland in one trip, whilst travelling on the more scenic roads around the county, it’s a unique adventure that can be completed by car, bike or on foot – as a whistle-stop weekend tour or a three-week adventure holiday.

The route organiser has also begun to collaborate with local businesses, meaning you’ll easily find food and drink recommendations, and some of the best places to stay if you’re planning on making a trip of it. So far NLAND250 have worked with BOX Pizza, Hesleyside Huts and Defender Camping, but are quickly building relationships with businesses big and small who are also passionate about helping spread the word about what Northumberland has to offer. Similarly, by collaborating with local content creators and photographers when curating their website and instagram page (@nland205), the route has now begun to develop exposure for local talent in the area too. 

Although the route hopes to encourage us Northerners to explore more of what’s on our doorstep (particularly with overseas travel somewhat limited at present), it’s also aiming to entice visitors from across the world in the same way many of the UK’s iconic driving routes already do. 

‘It’s a unique adventure that can be completed by car, bike or on foot – as a whistle-stop weekend tour or a three-week adventure holiday’

Read more: 13 beautiful photographs of northumberland like you've never seen it before, holy island.

Lying just a few miles off the Northumberland coast, Holy Island is cut off twice-daily from the rest of the world by fast-moving tides. Both an island and a picturesque village, Holy Island carries a wealth of history within its tidal walls. See the 12th Century priory and, rising from the sheer rock face at the tip of the island, Lindisfarne Castle.

Farne Islands

Animal fans rejoice: puffins, guillemots, eider ducks, razorbills, terns, grey seals (and their annual litter of about 1,000 pups), and, if you’re lucky, maybe a dolphin, porpoise or even a minke whale could pop up and say hello on these zoologically-diverse islands. 

No trip to this stretch of the Northumberland coastline would be complete without a visit to the impressive castle that once protected our shores. Sitting 45 metres above the sea, Bamburgh Castle was built in approximately 500AD and has witnessed many pivotal moments in British history, from the Anglo-Saxon, Norman and Viking invasions to the Wars of the Roses. 

Dunstanburgh Castle

The iconic ruined Dunstanburgh Castle, with one of the only three-storey keeps ever built, stands as a sentinel looking over the North Sea and the large sandy bay of Embleton. As one of the largest and grandest fortifications in Northern England, it’s a must on any Northumbrian adventure.

Simonside Hills

There are few vistas more spectacularly and quintessentially Northumbrian than that of the Simonside Hills. Teeming with wildlife (as a Special Area of Conservation), the distinctive ridge stands guard above Rothbury and boasts 360 degree views across the Cheviot Hills and North Sea coastline.

Read More: Nine of Our Favourite Places to Eat near Alnwick

This most picturesque village, often used for film sets, was built from the remains of a 12th century abbey and is surrounded by some the region’s most spectacular and unspoilt countryside. 

Sycamore Gap 

Standing beside Hadrian’s Wall, Sycamore Gap’s tree is famed in part thanks to the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Previously crowned England’s Tree of the Year by the Woodland Trust, you’ll want to make the walk west from Housesteads to see it for yourself. 

Hareshaw Linn

Hareshaw Linn is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), designated for its rare ferns and lichen. Take a magical walk through an ancient woodland, crossing no less than six bridges to reach a beautiful nine-metre high waterfall.

Kielder Observatory

This astronomical facility sits within the largest protected Dark Sky Park in Europe, so if you’re going to enjoy an evening of truly spectacular stargazing anywhere, then it’s going to be here. Kielder Observatory boasts an unrivalled programme of stellar events all year round, and with some of the best equipment in the business at your fingertips, you’ll soon be transported to a galaxy far, far away.

GET THE ROUTE

Head to nland250.com/route and enter your email address to receive your free copy of NLAND250’s Google Maps route direct to your inbox. 

www.nland250.com

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A Travel Guide To Northumberland, England

From beautiful places to visit and top things to do, to some cute places to stay, it’s time for my Northumberland travel guide.

One of my fave places for a break is still… England! Even before my time as a Visit England ambassador I absolutely loved exploring places on my doorstep. From Cornwall ’s incredible beaches, to the restaurant scene in the Lake District and Brighton ’s alternative vibe, I could spend all day nattering about places to visit, scenery I loved and more!

So today I’m turning my attention to beautiful Northumberland. With cute market towns, plenty of castles, and stunning but vastly underrated beaches, it’s a great place for an English staycation. So, it’s time to answer a few popular questions, and reveal a few gorgeous spots you just can’t miss!

Where Is Northumberland?

Just north of Newcastle and Durham, Northumberland is England’s northernmost county and borders Cumbria, County Durham and Tyne and Wear along with the border of Scotland. It’s got a beautiful stretch of coastline, and if you’re travelling from London, you can catch a train from Kings Cross and be there in under three hours. Find out more about how to get to Northumberland  or check out the map.

Weather In Northumberland

Another top question – everyone wants to know the weather! Well, summer temperatures can reach around 24 degrees, while winter temperatures drop just below zero. The region received plenty of snowfall over the last year, and it’s pretty special when it snows as it has been known to settle on the beaches!

Top Places To Visit In Northumberland

Northumberland is dotted with cute towns and beautiful scenery. There are no cities, so it’s a great place if you want to slow down the pace and really get away from it all!

Get lost wandering this pretty town’s cobbled streets, stopping off at book stores and having a brew in a cute local café. History buffs will love Alnwick Castle , the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK after Windsor. If it looks familiar, you might recognise it from the Harry Potter films! Yep, hello real life Hogwarts – The Outer Bailey is where Harry and co learned to fly their broomsticks and how to play quidditch!

Part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Beauty, the beach At Alnmouth is well worth a visit. It’s really wide, with golden sands and is a great place for a walk, or in warmer months a picnic or even some sunbathing! Yep it’s a bleak but beautiful spot in winter months, but in the summer it’s even possible to brave the North Sea waters.

Stargazing In Northumberland National Park

At night the skies in Northumberland Dark Sky Park are darker than anywhere else in the country, making it an incredible place for stargazing. The lack of light pollution means it’s possible to snap photos of galaxies far far away. Slow your shutter speed down and relax while the stars do their thing! The park is home to the Kielder Observatory which has regular stargazing events you can sign up to.

  A post shared by Emma Davies (@emmadaviesphoto) on Jan 16, 2018 at 2:28am PST

Another beautiful beach, another beautiful castle – yep there are plenty of both in Northumberland. Bamburgh Castle is one the finest in England, located on a rocky plateau, it’s got a fascinating history including being the most important place in the country at the time of the Anglo Saxons!

Berwick-upon-Tweed

This historic town is just three miles from the Scottish border. It’s a great area for art lovers, with plenty of galleries in the town. Plus you can’t miss the great Elizabethan walls – built to to stop the Scots from invading! There are plenty of great walks to do, taking in views of the River Tweed estuary.

Linhope Spout

Take a wander through the Breamish Valley, and you’ll be rewarded with impressive views as this 18m high waterfall cascades into a huge plunge pool.

Duddo Stone Circle

Northumberland’s answer to Stone Henge, the Duddo Stone Circle dates back over 4,000 years! The five mysterious upright blocks of stone are quite an eerie sight, so be sure to stop by.

Lindisfarne AKA Holy Island

This island is reachable by a causeway at low tide. It’s called Holy Island as it’s famous for its monastery, which was founded back in 635 AD when Irish monks settled there. You can visit the Priory to learn all about the history, check out Lindisfarne Castle, explore the island and soak up the views… just be sure to check the tide times in advance so you don’t get stranded!

Northumberland Holiday Cottages

Forget looking for hotels in Northumberland, there are plenty of gorgeous holiday cottages that are perfect for a break in the region. Lots are dog friendly, have parking and many have absolutely stunning views. Here are a few of my favourites…

Anchor Cottage, Cresswell – This beautiful stone cottage has panoramic views of the sea towards Druridge Bay and beyond. It’s been fitted out in a chic way too, with exposed beams, a wood burning stove and nautical themed rooms.

Seascape, Seahouses – With coastal views and a smart interior, this holiday cottage is close to the harbour and beach in Seahouses. I love the look of the open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area – great for a family break.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Northumberland?

England is a country obsessed with weather. Don’t know what to say? Comment on the weather! We talk about it a lot, but contrary to what you may have heard, we don’t have awful weather in England. It’s just a little unpredictable and varies from region to region.

You can expect average lows of around 4 °C in Northumberland in January / February, and highs around 19°C in July / August.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Northumberland, I’d suggest planning a trip in May or June. The weather tends to be warm and sunny, rain is at a minimum and it’s out of peak season, so you shouldn’t be battling any big crowds either. The longest day is around 20th June every year, so it’s a time you can enjoy maximum daylight hours exploring!

I’ve never been a fan of November in England – it gets pretty bleak! It’s the wettest month of the year, and while December can be pretty cold, there’s a Christmas magic around the country which always puts a smile on my face!

This post was sponsored by Cottages In Northumberland , but as always, all opinions are my own.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “A Travel Guide To Northumberland, England”

Stargazing would be a very nice experience!

Yes!! I’d love to do it there too!

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Know Your Northumberland returns for 2024. Available to anyone working in a visitor facing environment - improve your knowledge of this truly wonderful and diverse county, gathering and unlocking some of Northumberland’s secrets and treasures. Find out more

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Matfen Hall become the first Five-Star hotel in Northumberland with AA rating

Luxury hotel and country estate, Matfen Hall, has received a prestigious AA Five-Star rating, becoming the first and only five-star hotel in Northumberland.

New TV series premieres featuring Northumberland as a film location

In a week where we heard the sad news that Brenda Blethyn is stepping back from her iconic role as DCI Vera Stanhope there is another TV show shining a light on our beautiful county of Northumberland.

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Northumberland Tourism

Let adventure inspire you in  Northumberland County , just off Highway 401 between Lake Ontario and Rice Lake. Experience country life with small town contemporary flair in 2000 square kilometres (772 square miles) of natural beauty, only one hour east of Toronto.

Discover the best of spring

• Spring is prime trout-fishing season in Cobourg and Port Hope.
• Take the boat out on Rice Lake or on the Trent-Severn Waterway in Hastings and Campbellford.
• Get on the trails for a hike in the  Northumberland County Forest , Ganaraska Forest and other nearby  trails .
• Northumberland County Forest and Ganaraska Forest also have some great trails perfect for mountain-biking.
• Presqu'ile Provincial Park is open all year and is a wonderful spot for birdwatching .
• Challenge yourself to cross the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge on foot.
• Take in a nearby, family-friendly  farm visit , hug friendly goats, trek with alpacas, get up close with pigs or taste award-winning 100% raw honey.
• Try something new or show off your skills at Haute Goat Disc Golf .
• Relax at a  spa or wellness retreat .
• Explore  great restaurants  – from popular family bakeries to creative restaurants and local craft breweries, our  small towns and villages offer a fresh take on rural hospitality.
• Get warm in our local shops filled with carefully curated items and friendly, welcoming staff.

The best part of Northumberland is that there’s no rush here. A slow vacation or relaxed day is the way things roll. Plan your  winter adventure, at your own pace. Visit  Northumberland Tourism to discover exciting things to see and do. Search the business directory to find exactly what you're looking for.

Getting here

Visit us by car just off Highway 401, by VIA Rail to Cobourg or Port Hope, or by boat with waterway access.

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There's so much to see and do in Northumberland County

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Visitor Guide

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Stop into Port Hope, known for having the best-preserved main street in Ontario. Surround yourself with 19th-Century architecture. Browse in unique shops and taste local specialties. Learn more about Port Hope .

Stop into Cobourg, known for its prime location between Toronto and Kingston. Enjoy its rich heritage, world-class marina and beautiful beach. Round out your experience with wonderful shops and eateries. Learn more about Cobourg .

Relax in the rolling countryside of Grafton. Explore this perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Let nature gently embrace you at Ste. Anne's Spa, one of Canada’s premier destinations. Learn more about Grafton .

Cross the widest main street in Northumberland in Colborne. Take in its vintage architecture and colourful murals. Rest under the trees in Victoria Square, or visit the art gallery. Learn more about Colborne .

Visit Brighton for a taste of apple country with some of Canada's finest orchards – plus places to explore, dine or stay with incredible Lake Ontario views at Presqu'ile Bay. Learn more about Brighton .

Escape to Bewdley on the south shore of Rice Lake. Rent a cottage, t ake in a water sport and enjoy the fresh air. In the winter you can ice fish or snowmobile. Learn more about Rice Lake .

Visit Alderville First Nation. Experience the history of the Mississauga Ojibways. Take a nature or heritage tour. See why this vibrant community is a large part of our culture. Learn more about Alderville First Nation .

Experience Warkworth, nicely nestled in Northumberland's rolling hills. Take in its history and country village charm. Explore shops and eateries offering loads of creativity and uptown style. Learn more about Warkworth .

Campbellford

Explore Campbellford, the largest community in Trent Hills. Cross the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, hike at Ferris Provincial Park – or savour delicious treats, in town or around. Learn more about Campbellford .

Discover why Hastings is \"The Hub of the Trent\". Watch boats lock through the Trent-Severn Waterway. Spot anglers competing for trophy fish from their boats, or from the village bridge. Learn more about Hastings .

Relax in the rolling countryside of Grafton. Explore this perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Let nature gently embrace you at Ste. Anne's Spa, one of Canada’s premier destinations. Learn more about Grafton .

Visit Brighton for a taste of apple country with some of Canada's finest orchards – plus places to explore, dine or stay with incredible Lake Ontario views at Presqu'ile Bay. Learn more about Brighton .

Escape to Bewdley on the south shore of Rice Lake. Rent a cottage, take in a water sport and enjoy the fresh air. In the winter you can ice fish or snowmobile. Learn more about Rice Lake .

Visit Alderville First Nation. Experience the history of the Mississauga Ojibways. Take a nature or heritage tour. See why this vibrant community is a large part of our culture. Learn more about Alderville First Nation .

Explore Campbellford, the largest community in Trent Hills. Cross the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, hike at Ferris Provincial Park – or savour delicious treats, in town or around. Learn more about Campbellford .

Discover why Hastings is "The Hub of the Trent". Watch boats lock through the Trent-Severn Waterway. Spot anglers competing for trophy fish from their boats, or from the village bridge. Learn more about Hastings .

TIP  Select a point on the map to learn more about Northumberland attractions.

TIP  Select a point on the map to learn more about Northumberland attractions.

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