Things To Do In Northumberland

Lindisfarne

You don't have to be religious to appreciate the serene beauty of the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The island, which is a place of pilgrimage for Christians, is accessible via a causeway from Beal, which is covered by the high tide twice daily. The monastery built by St Aidan in 635 no longer stands (the site is in the chancel of St Mary's) but the ruins of the Benedictine Priory built in the late 11th Century are still there, as is the Castle, which is managed by the National Trust and undergoing extensive restoration. Depending on the tides, you may also see St Cuthbert's isle where the saint spent several years of his life living as a hermit. It's a fantastic place to visit on a clear day when the views are breathtaking.

Northumberland's past is both intriguing and turbulent. It has been ruled by the Romans, the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings, all of whom left their mark including leaders like Eric Bloodaxe and Swein Forkbeard. The Vikings' first target was Lindisfarne Priory, and you can learn about their history in the museum there.

Hadrian's Wall World Heritage Site

Hadrian's Wall

You can't go to Northumberland without seeing Hadrian's Wall. It stretches 135 kilometres (84 miles) east to west across the north of England from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Bowness-on-Solway. Hadrian's Wall is one of the most famous Roman monuments in Britain, and there are several excellent museums in Northumberland dedicated to it, including Chesters Roman Fort and Museum at Chollerford and Housesteads Roman Fort and Museum in Hexham. More Roman history can be seen in the village of Corbridge, which is also good for shopping and a day out. If that's still not enough to satisfy your appetite for all things Roman, you can also visit Roman Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum in Bardon Mill.

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Berwick is at the northernmost point of Northumberland, only a few miles south of the Scottish border. It's a beautiful place to explore and, with its range of shops and attractions, makes a convenient base for your self-catering holiday in Northumberland. Berwick-upon-Tweed may be peaceful now, but its proximity to the border has given it quite a bloody history, especially in medieval times. There are many reported hauntings, including in the British Heart Foundation shop which is believed to be haunted by William Crow who had a pharmacy on the premises over a century ago.

Beaches

Beadnell Beach, Northumberland

Northumberland has a stunning 30-mile stretch of coastline with beaches of soft white sand that wouldn't look out of place in the Caribbean. Holy Island has several beautiful beaches which are peaceful and remote. Coves Haven is a favourite for its sheltered position, but Keel Head and Harbour beaches on Holy Island are also beautiful. On the mainland, Bamburgh, Seahouses and Warkworth are all good choices for a day out, though you will need to be prepared as there are limited amenities at some beaches. Other options include Cresswell, Amble and Low Newton-by-the-Sea, while Alnmouth is probably the most popular not only for the beach but the charming village behind it.

Find your new favourite view

In Northumberland, every day has the potential to deliver a vista that will replace yesterday's as your new favourite. Walk through the beautiful Breamish and Ingram Valley, or across the purple-tinted north Northumberland moorland. Enjoy the sight of a rare red squirrel scampering up and down tree trunks, or get drawn in by the colour and showmanship of traditional seaside towns like Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.

When the heavens open, head indoors to one of these fantastic venues.

Alnwick Castle and Gardens

Alnwick Castle has a special place in the heart of millions of fans of the Harry Potter films as part of Hogwarts. Visitors can walk through the same courtyards as the fictional pupils, and even learn to ride a broom by the Outer Bailey, just like Harry and his friends did. The castle has also been used as a filming location for Downton Abbey as well as a backdrop for other films and television shows, so is recognisable to many visitors even before they arrive. The castle has been owned by the same family - the de Percy family - for 700 years and, as you can imagine, they have built up an enormous collection of artefacts over the centuries. It all makes for a fascinating day out.

The town of Alnwick is worth a visit on its own and, if Alnwick Castle doesn't give you enough history to ponder upon, the nearby 13th Century Chillingham Castle with its haunted torture dungeons may have what you're looking for.

Woodhorn Museum and Northumberland Archives

The Woodhorn Museum occupies the site of a former coal mine and houses the Northumberland Archives. Together, they provide an insightful view into the region's past through changing exhibits and a varied calendar of events. There are lots of hands-on activities to keep children amused, and an outdoor play area where they can dig and climb if the rain eases up.

Walk to a waterfall

Northumberland's waterfalls are even more impressive after a downpour. Hareshaw Linn is one of the easiest to reach, being only a short walk through woodland from a free car park. You'll need wet weather gear for the hike to the waterfalls in the Cheviot Hills. Pack a flask and some waterproof boots and follow The College Burn to find four separate waterfalls, or make your way to The Linhope Spout, where water falls in a straight 20-foot drop to a round pool. Apart from a dramatic display, another benefit of seeing the waterfalls on a wet day is that you won't have to share the view with fair-weather picnickers!

A taste of Northumberland

Rainy days are just made for long lazy lunches and Northumberland has more than its fair share of good eateries to brighten up a dreary day.

Craster Harbour

Craster is of course a lovely place to visit on a sunny day but it is equally appealing when the heavens open, thanks to the Craster Seafood Restaurant (NE66 3TR). Book yourself a table by the window and while away a couple of blissful hours eating the fruits caught from the sea in front of you. Open for lunch Monday to Friday (and evening meals Monday to Saturday), you won't be surprised to find Craster's famous kippers on the menu (smoked next door!), along with heart-warming dishes like seafood stew, fish and chips and Northumberland lamb tagine - perfect for stoking yourself up for a wet and windy coastal walk afterwards! While you are there, make time to visit the smoke house to pick up some kippers or salmon, and browse The Mick Oxley Gallery for some holiday souvenirs.

Kielder Forest is another great place to head if the weather can't decide whether to shine or rain as the William de Percy (NE19 1NR) is sure to provide a warm welcome (to dogs as well!). With a décor that is lavishly warm with a distinct nod in the direction of France, this old 17th Century inn has been transformed into a stylish sanctuary for those with a passion for fine ales and tipples and decent food. Make sure you take your outdoor gear as Kielder's playground is on the doorstep beckoning.

If fine dining is your thing then head to the Northumberland Arms (NE65 9EE) in the village of Felton. With a MasterChef finalist at the helm, this stylish yet intimate bolt-hole has a fabulous menu with well executed classics and inspirational dishes served in the intimate award-winning restaurant and bar (where dogs are welcome).

If you like something welcoming yet a little quirky then The Joiners Arms (NE66 3EA) at High Newton-by-the-Sea near Alnwick is a good choice. Exceptionally friendly, this country pub is popular with walkers exploring the coastline. With an artistic flair that runs through its décor and menu, The Joiners Arms serves honest yet indulgent food with a strong focus on local produce. Dogs are most welcome in the bar.

Hexham

The lovely market town of Hexham is a smart choice for a pleasant day out, whatever the weather. A hodge-podge of narrow streets leads visitors to Hexham Abbey, built in 674 by St Wilfrid. It is a miraculous survivor of Viking raids and home to one of two remaining Saxon crypts left anywhere in the world. The Shambles is a covered market place built in 1766 and still a vibrant place to pick up a bargain, while a twice-weekly market is held in Moot Hall on Tuesday and Saturday, and there are fortnightly farmers markets as well. Browse an art gallery or two or go to Hexham Old Gaol, Britain's first purpose-built prison dating from 1330, which is an excellent museum with fascinating exhibits.

Mountain Biking

Northumberland was made for mountain biking. Its variety of terrain and increasing network of trains means there is a ride suitable for everyone regardless of their fitness and skill level. Kielder Water and Forest Park is a good place to start. Hardcore riders will want to test themselves on the 120-mile Sandstone Way between Hexham and Berwick-upon-Tweed, which takes in many miles of Northumberland National Park's most impressive scenery, and which can be ridden as a whole or broken into eight separate loops for shorter rides.

Bamburgh Beach and Castle

Bamburgh is a must-see when you're in Northumberland. Images of the castle towering over the stretch of beach are some of the most iconic of the county. A visit to Bamburgh can be as gentle as eating an ice-cream and watching the annual sandcastle building competition, or as exciting as abseiling off the castle walls. It could involve a leisurely stroll around the historic town, which has been inhabited since the end of the last Ice Age, or as exhilarating as galloping on horseback along the shore. Grade I listed Bamburgh Castle is a spectacular fortress with an impressive history, and the Northumberland Coast Path provides excellent views of it. The good beach break makes it popular with surfers, or you might prefer to try coasteering or sea kayaking.

Walk this Way

Walk sections of the Pennine Way

The footpaths in Northumberland attract keen walkers from around the world who come to enjoy the peace, space and dramatic scenery. The Pennine Way is the UK's oldest national trail and takes in 268 miles of the most spectacular views across the north of England including through the Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, along Hadrian's Wall and through the Cheviot Hills.

Northumberland is not short of designated footpaths. Try St Oswald's Way, which includes three miles following in the footsteps of saints on the Pilgrim's Way, St Cuthbert's Way, or the Hadrian's Wall Path.

Forage and Feast

Take a walk with a difference with Northern Wilds. You'll see the countryside differently after a day looking for seasonal wild food with an expert. It's so satisfying to make a meal with ingredients you know are fresh because you found and picked them yourself. Northern Wilds also offer cooking courses using nature's bounty, including how to safely prepare game.

Kielder Water & Forest Park

While Kielder is a suitable place for an adventure, it is also wonderful for a relaxed day out with family and friends. With the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and 250 square miles of forest, there is ample room for everyone whether you are thrill seeking or simply lazing. The park has played a significant role in the reintroduction of ospreys to the region and the birds can be seen between April and August. The park houses an enormous open-air art gallery, and you can take a ferry trip across the lake, or time your visit at night where the lack of light pollution makes Kielder one of the best places in the country to go stargazing.

Fly fishing

Northumberland is great for fishing, particularly trout fly fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a total novice doesn't matter at places like Langley Dam or Chatton Trout Fishery where the trout are plentiful. If you want some tips from a local, Bob Smith offers lessons and guided sessions along the River Till and River Coquet.

See the Seals and Puffins

Puffins on Farne Island

Northumberland is one of the most significant breeding grounds for Atlantic grey seals in Europe. The main colony is on Farne Island, where around 1,000 pups are born every year between September and December. The National Trust runs regular tours to see the colony without disturbing the seal population. If you are holidaying during the summer the Farne Islands are still a must to visit especially between April to July when the puffins visit.

Retail Therapy

Northumberland's towns are full of independent businesses and thriving markets. Discover gourmet delights from local traders who take genuine pride in the quality of their produce. Shopping at a market is a leisurely and enjoyable experience and is far removed from brusque, impersonal supermarkets. Alnwick, Hexham and Berwick are good for fresh produce, while Blythe and Prudhoe have a wider array of items including haberdashery, flowers and craft.

Delve into a Good Book

Whether you are stretched out in the sunshine or reclining in front of an open fire back at the cottage, a good book is the ideal accessory for a lazy day in Northumberland. The Fire Eaters is an acclaimed children's book by David Almond. Set some 50 years prior to its publication in 2003, the novel is based around a Keely Bay, a fictional coal mining village on the coast which has its roots in every Northumberland community and which brings to life the fear that surrounded the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Last Kingdom looks further back in Northumberland's history - around 1300 years ago to the time of the Vikings. Mary Steward used the countryside around Hadrian's Wall as the setting for her dramatic romance, The Ivy Tree, while Paula Hawkins (author of the acclaimed Girl on a Train) created the Northumberland town of Beckford to set her family drama Into the Water. If you're into mysteries, then take a copy of Hidden Depths, the award-winning Inspector Vera Stanhope novel by the esteemed author Anne Cleeves which is during a hot summer on the Northumberland coast.

Essential Guide to Northumberland
A whirlwind tour!