Northumberland
The most northern county in England, Northumberland is full of magic and mystery with spectacular coastal and country views. The landscape is littered with ruins, forts and ancient castles which are great to explore when visiting. There are also country homes, mining museums and idyllic market towns where you can expect a warm welcome, in particular Hexham, which holds the tile of England’s Favourite Market Town. Situated on the River Tyne, it is an ideal base for exploring nearby Hadrian’s Wall and has some wonderful historical attractions such as an Abbey, Moot Hall and 14th Century Manor Office, which was once the town’s jail!
Places to Go in Northumberland
There is plenty to see and do in the Northumberland National Park from taking a silent stroll across the fells and woodlands or exploring the park on horseback or by bike, through to sampling local food and drink in picturesque villages along the way. The area is known for being in touch with local crafts and culture, with plenty of rural art, events and shows that celebrate the distinctively rich heritage of Northumberland as well as the natural beauty that the park strives to protect. Keep an eye out for tours and talks all year round. Berwick-upon-Tweed is situated right on the Scottish border, and has been a thriving trading centre and port since the 12th Century. The hustle and bustle of this historic border town may not be what it was back then, but the picturesque town continues to attract visitors from the word over – and is in the heart of North East England, considered to be in the top 30 places to visit in the world.
Our Top Picks in Northumberland
We want you to enjoy the best that Northumberland has to offer and so here's a selection of our favourite things to see and do;
Walk Hadrian’s Wall
Northumberland’s world heritage site is home to the most prominent remains of Hadrian’s Wall, and offers a range of walks for all levels. The routes are dotted with welcoming coffee shops that offer well-earned refreshments whilst walking in this spectacular landscape. Wide-open spaces and dramatic views combine, to give a sense of awe when you consider that this was once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Whilst in the area green-fingered visitors can view a newly created landscape in Kirkharle, the birthplace of famed landscape architect Capability Brown, where you can see artists at work in the grounds of one of his earliest designs.
Holy Island of Lindisfarne
Make sure that you pack a tide table before heading to Lindisfarne, or you may get very wet feet. The tidal causeway is the route onto this historical island where you can take part in a treasure trail and visit the castle and priory before tucking into a hearty pub lunch – or dinner depending on whether you opted to go on foot rather than by bus. Take time to explore the other attractions, although the shops are geared towards selling trinkets to visitors, one visitor centre is dedicated to mead, a warming beverage that Lindisfarne is famed for, with an excellent array of boozy souvenirs to take home with you.
Take Shelter at Woodhorn Museum
The North East of England is not always blessed with the best weather. If you don’t fancy donning a raincoat and being at one with nature, take yourself along to Woodhorn Museum and Northumberland Archives, near Ashington. This is an entertaining and interactive museum with a range of activities for visitors set amongst the breathtakingly huge coal cutting machines that were once in use in the mines here. Expect to be moved as you are taken on an emotional journey through Coal Town, which explores the highs and lows of the lives of the former mining community.
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