Northumberland’s rolling countryside and stunning landscapes make it the ideal place for a relaxing break. Many tourists go here to enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer. Whether you’re looking to spend your time hiking, biking, strolling the sandy shores or just simply doing nothing, Northumberland has it all.
With moorland, beaches, hillsides, and forests all in abundance, Northumberland makes for the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. What’s more, if you love exploring the wilderness with your dog, there are some great spots around the region to enjoy a getaway with your four-legged friend.
Craster and Dunstanburgh Castle
One of the main highlights in Northumberland is the mighty castles. The county has rich historical sites, making it a great place to uncover the heritage of the region. Dunstanburgh Castle in Craster is a great attraction for those visiting with their beloved pet.
Situated on a remote headland, Dunstanburgh Castle allows for the perfect opportunity to explore ancient ruins in a beautiful setting. Walk along the coastal path and take in the stunning views out to sea as you make your way to the castle.
Spend some time wandering around Dunstanburgh, and explore the Lilburn Tower where you can take in outstanding coastal vistas. Not only do you get to experience this site with your dog, but the 1.5-mile walk to the castle is a great way to stretch both your legs. It’s important to note that dogs must be kept on leads whilst visiting here.
Lindisfarne Priory
Lindisfarne Priory is located on Holy Island and provides a great day out in Northumberland. You can access the island by a causeway from the mainland. You must check that it is safe to travel though, as the path is often obstructed by fast incoming tides. If the road is clear, a trip to Lindisfarne is a must when seeking dog-friendly places to visit in Northumberland.
The priory dates back almost 1,400 years, providing an excellent way to uncover more of the region’s history. With stunning ancient ruins to explore, a fascinating museum and beautiful surrounding scenery, this allows for a great day out in Northumberland with your dog.
A trip to Holy Island provides an exciting journey alongside a chance to visit one of Northumberland’s most popular attractions. Lindisfarne Priory has now become a place of pilgrimage as its historical background and religious connections make it a special part of the county’s heritage. Anyone who decides to visit this site will discover a great day out, alongside a perfect way to spend some time in the region.
You will also discover an excellent dog-friendly pub at the Lindisfarne Inn, alongside a chance to catch glimpses of puffins, seals and a plethora of other wildlife. With so much to do and see around Lindisfarne Priory, it provides an ideal attraction for those travelling with their four-legged friends.
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens
With such rich history and heritage, castles are in abundance in Northumberland, and another site certainly worth visiting is Belsay Hall. Here you will find a breathtaking castle and gardens to explore with your furry companion.
The medieval castle and thirty acres of stunning gardens allow for the perfect day out in Northumberland. Take in the exceptional flora and fauna, or head to the castle to marvel over the impressive 14th-century structure.
Dogs aren’t allowed inside the castle, but if you happen to be visiting with someone else, you can take turns exploring the ruins and then stroll through the gardens together. This also is another great way to uncover all that Northumberland’s history has to offer.
Corbridge Roman Town
The ancient Roman Town in Corbridge allows you to truly step back in time whilst visiting Northumberland. Once a vibrant market town, stroll around the ruins where people once shopped and worked. This site dates back to the first century AD, providing a place brimming with history and heritage.
You will also find a museum here, allowing you to learn more about the Roman Town, however, dogs aren’t allowed inside. Spend your time wandering around the historic town and then head to Corbridge to enjoy the shops and restaurants. This is a great way to see both the past and present of Northumberland.
Northumberlandia
Northumberlandia park is built on an old mine, providing unique landscapes and stunning countryside vistas. Seeing Northumberlandia from a birds-eye view allows you to witness the ‘Lady of the North’ sculpture in all its glory. This impressive land formation resembles a reclining female, at 34 metres high and 400 metres long, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Northumberland.
If you’re seeking a day full of outdoor adventures and exploration, a trip to Northumberlandia will do the trick. You will find beautiful woodland trails to wander, alongside a visitor centre that is worth checking out. This provides a great way to spend some time with your four-legged friend, all whilst enjoying the surrounding nature.
Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most frequently visited sites in Northumberland. Its fascinating history and interesting ruins allow for a great day out in the region. You’ll be happy to know that you can visit here with your dog, meaning you can both make the most out of an interesting day out.
The wall was previously built as a defensive fortification and dates back to AD 122. Stretching over 73 miles, this impressive structure allows visitors to soak up even more of Northumberland’s history and heritage. In 1987 Hadrian’s Wall was made a World Heritage Site and continues to attract visitors each year.
For those seeking dog walking in Northumberland, Hadrian’s Wall provides a great way to explore with dogs, all whilst learning about the region’s past. Stroll by the wall and spend some time taking in the beautiful countryside views from higher points along the route.
It’s important to note that Hadrian’s Wall can get very busy during peak season due to its prominence and popularity in Northumberland. With this in mind, it’s best to plan ahead of time to ensure you make the most out of your time here.
Aln Valley Railway
The Aln Valley Railway was previously used to link Alnmouth to Alnwick. Today, the site provides a popular tourist spot. Not only does the area have beautiful surroundings, but it was also used in many of the Harry Potter films.
Wander through the numerous trails surrounding the railway whilst making the most of Northumberland’s outdoors with your canine companion. With several flat, easy trails to wander, this is a great place to explore for anyone also visiting with small children.
The railway is situated in a valley encompassed by lush greenery and towering trees. This provides a magical day out in Northumberland and a great dog-friendly attraction for those visiting with pets. You will also discover several great events at Aln Railway throughout the year, alongside the chance to ride the mini railway.
Simonside Hills
Located near the town of Rothbury are the Simonside Hills. Here you will find an impressive range of hills, most of which are around 300-400 metres in height. This is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts as there is a selection of excellent hiking trails to explore around the area.
The Simonside Hills are part of the national park, allowing for a great way to explore some of Northumberland’s stunning natural scenery. As you hike through the hills, be sure to take some time to take in the breathtaking views across the park.
For those visiting Simonside with their dogs, you will also find several walking routes without stiles, making for an easy adventure. However, it’s important to note that there are often livestock grazing throughout the area, so make sure you keep your dogs on leads when walking near them.
Paxton House
If you happen to be visiting Berwick-Upon-Tweed, be sure to check out Paxton House. This stunning stately home allows for a wholesome day out in Northumberland. With 80 acres of estate to wander, comprising woodland trails, riverside strolls and stunning grassland, Paxton makes for a great place to visit with your dog.
Alongside Paxton’s stunning setting and breathtaking surroundings, you will also find a dog-friendly tea room here – the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after wandering the grounds. Be sure to check the opening and closing times before visiting as they do change depending on the time of year.
Bamburgh Castle
We couldn’t have a list of Northumberland’s dog-friendly attractions without mentioning the renowned Bamburgh Castle. This is one of the most popular sites in the region and for good reason!
The castle stands at an impressive 150 feet above sea level and is surrounded by gorgeous sandy shores and a rugged coastline. Spend some time strolling along the beach with your furry friend, check out the towering dunes, or take a dip in the sea – the things to do and see are endless!
Stroll through the castle’s ground and take in the views that stretch as far as the Farne Islands. With over 1,400 years of history to uncover, you will find a place brimming with fascinating findings and interesting architecture. Dogs aren’t allowed in the rooms of the castle, but you can roam freely together throughout the grounds.
There is so much to do at Bamburgh, it makes sense that many choose to go here when visiting Northumberland. Whether you’re looking for beautiful coastal vistas, stunning flora and fauna, ancient history or a chance to take in one of the region’s top sites, you will find it all at Bamburgh Castle.
Barter Books
A must when visiting Alnwick in Northumberland is a trip to Barter Books. For lovers of literacy, or anyone looking to spend some time indoors, this is a great option. The bookstore is situated in the old Victorian railway station, allowing for a great way to marvel over ancient architecture whilst browsing the many books.
Barter Books displays everything from antique reads to more contemporary books. This is a great place to go for those who want to escape the rain as the open fires and beautiful building provide a cosy environment to hide away in Northumberland.
You will also find a lovely cafe at Barter Books, alongside a children’s section, providing the perfect place for a family day out. Dogs are welcome in both the bookstore and cafe, meaning you don’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend behind as you discover all that Barter Books has to offer.
Summary
There is so much to do and see in Northumberland, it’s no wonder that many tourists go here to explore all of its special attractions. With plenty of dog-friendly sites and several pet-friendly holiday cottages, it provides the perfect place for those travelling with their beloved canine. Wander ancient ruins, explore grand castles, stroll sandy shores or spend some time immersed in nature. Whatever you’re looking for in a relaxing break, Northumberland has it all!
If you’re planning a trip to Northumberland with your furry friend, you’re likely in need of somewhere to stay. Independent Cottages have a range of beautiful dog-friendly holiday cottages, providing the perfect place to truly unwind after a long day exploring all that the region has to offer.