Our northernmost county, location of Hogwarts and home to more castles than anywhere else in England, Northumberland is pretty epic.
It’s a huge area of land in North East England, bordered by Scotland, facing the wild North Sea and stacked with stunning scenery and ancient monuments.
Here’s our guide to the beautiful county of Northumberland. We’ll look at things to do, places to visit and some fabulous holiday properties to stay in while you’re there.
What does our guide include?
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Things to do in Northumberland
You’ll find Hadrian’s Wall, the fortification built to protect Roman Britain from the Picts - and the inspiration for Game of Thrones; Kielder, England’s largest forest; the mystical island of Lindisfarne; and acres of gorgeous windswept moorland, remote hills and beaches of golden sand.
If you love battles and general historical mayhem, Northumberland is the place for you. From the Romans onward, the ancient kingdom of Northumbria has been one of England’s bloodiest battlegrounds. Invaded by the Romans in the early 80s AD, the Vikings followed in the eighth century and things didn’t get much better in the Medieval period, with savage border warfare with the Scots kicking off and lasting for centuries.
It’s not all bloodshed though. The natural landscape is simply breathtaking. Northumberland National Park is 405 square miles of glorious wind-rippled grasslands, rolling hills and some of England’s cleanest rivers. It’s also England’s least populated and least visited national park.
Northumberland’s coast is an absolute gem and surely one of the finest stretches of shoreline in the country. With huge empty swathes of sugary sand beaches, you could almost be in the Caribbean if it weren’t quite so nippy.
Head inland to discover the Tyne Valley and a gentle rural landscape of woods, farmland and well-to-do villages dotted along the banks of the River Tyne. And while it’s not strictly part of Northumberland itself, you have to have a night on the Toon in Newcastle.
Lay siege to some castles
Lay siege to, or simply have a little look around, a few of Northumberland’s dramatic castles. There are 70 in the county, the highest concentration in England, so you’ve got plenty to choose from.
You must visit the iconic Bamburgh Castle, standing sentinel over the coastline for over 1400 years; and Alnwick Castle, second only to Windsor Castle in size, home to the Duke of Northumberland and the exterior filming location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
Inland, we love diminutive Aydon Castle. It’s less imposing than some, but with its apple orchard and foot-worn kitchen flagstones, you can really imagine what life was like here hundreds of years ago.
Walk Hadrian’s Wall
At 73 miles long you probably aren’t going to be walking the whole thing, but there are some spectacular sections you really can’t miss.
The Steel Rigg, Sycamore Gap and Crag Lough walk is one of the best. It’s about four miles, with a few steep scrambles, and takes in some of the most scenic bits of the wall - including the spot where the much-missed sycamore tree used to stand. But there’s still plenty to see, with huge, far-reaching views and some amazingly intact sections of the ancient wall.
Go off-road in Kielder Forest
Kielder is the largest forest in England, containing the largest reservoir in Europe - the ideal place to go wild. It’s one of the best off-road cycling spots in the country with 100 miles of cycle routes passing peacefully through the trees, or blasting down muddy single-track trails.
It is a great location for those on foot too, with seemingly endless footpaths snaking between the sweet-smelling pines. The forest is pretty huge though - the walk around Kielder Water is 26 miles on its own, so make sure to pace yourself and try not to get lost!
Spot red squirrels, eagles, puffins and seals
This huge county is a haven for rare British wildlife. It’s one of the few places left in England where you can still spot our native red squirrels - Kielder Forest is a good place to look. You can also see ospreys at Kielder. This mighty fish-eating eagle with a wingspan of five feet began nesting at Kielder Water in 2009, after being nearly driven to extinction.
Take a boat trip around the Farne Islands off the coast from Seahouses, between March and October and look for seals sunning themselves on the rocks. You’ll also see massive colonies of nesting puffins, terns, razorbills, kittiwakes, shags and guillemots. Wear a hat - the terns are feisty during nesting season and may dive-bomb you!
Follow the Northumberland Coastal Path
A contender for the most stunning coastal landscape in the UK, the Northumberland Coastal Path begins in Creswell in the south and ends in Berwick in the north. It takes you along 62 miles of pristine beaches, rugged clifftops, past castles and through pretty seaside villages.
One of the best stretches has to be from Craster to Seahouses, under the dark and dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, past some spectacular beaches and birdlife, and via a rather good pub.
Stargaze in the Dark Sky Park
Where can you find England’s darkest skies? You guessed it. Northumberland’s sparse population and low levels of light pollution make for stunning starry skies. You might even spot the Northern Lights.
The whole of Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water & Forest Park make up the International Dark Sky Park. Bring your own telescope, or head to one of the dark sky observatories and use theirs. You can also book a session with a star gazing expert, or join a dark sky event - the best times are during autumn and winter.
Places to visit in Northumberland
Northumberland is home to countless wonderful tourist spots, towns and other attractions that are all perfect for a day out. So we thought we thought we would offer up five of our favourites.
Alnwick
Alnwick (pronounced ‘Annick’) is a beautiful little town near the coast, filled with winding cobbled streets, handsome Georgian houses and a bustling Saturday market in the town square. There’s the famous castle of course, but Alnwick has lots of other treats in store. Check out Barter Books, an absolute treasure trove of literature and one of the largest second hand bookshops in the UK.
The Alnwick Garden is also a must go. It’s one of the country’s most spectacular gardens, with 4000 plants, a bamboo labyrinth, a poison garden and a stunning display of cherry blossom in the spring. It’s also home to the largest wooden treehouse in the world!
Lindisfarne / Holy Island
A mystical island only accessible at low tide Holy Island, or Lindisfarne, has been a religious mecca for hundreds of years.
Ancient monks built an isolated monastery here in the sixth century AD, but they were slaughtered and the monastery destroyed in a brutal Viking raid. The priory was re-founded in Norman times and this magical island has since drawn many pilgrims and visitors. You can cross the causeway to Holy Island on foot or by car twice a day at low tide - just make sure you check the tide times.
Housesteads Roman Fort
Housesteads is the best preserved Roman fort in Britain, located at what was the very edge of the Roman Empire. You can explore the barracks, granaries and best of all the multi-seat latrines used by the soldiers stationed here. There’s a museum with artifacts found at the fort, a visitors centre and fabulous bird’s-eye views over the Northumberland countryside.
Hexham and Corbridge
Take a break from all the history and enjoy the charms of present-day Northumberland. Hexham is a thriving market town on the banks of the River Tyne. It was voted the happiest place to live in Britain in 2019 and 2021. There’s an ancient abbey and gaol house - whoops more history - but also plenty of independent shops and nice places for lunch after a stroll along the river.
You’ll find lots of pretty country villages surrounding Hexham. Nearby Corbridge has a cute, boutique-y vibe, with a delicious bakery in the village square, and an excellent deli, the Corbridge Larder, selling the very best Northumbrian produce.
Cragside
Visiting Cragside is like entering another world. It’s an enormous fairytale Arts and Crafts castle, set amid grand fantasy gardens filled with waterfalls, lakes, cliffs and great banks of rhododendrons.
This astonishing place was built by Victorian industrialist William Armstrong and was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. It’s basically a huge Victorian smart home, loaded with innovative gadgets alongside breathtakingly lavish gothic interiors.
Best restaurants and pubs in Northumberland
The Jolly Fisherman, Craster
This popular pub is set in a fabulous spot looking out over Dunstanburgh Castle and the North Sea. Grab a table by the window if you can and settle in to enjoy the ocean views with a pint of crisp Jolly Sea Cider. Seafood is the speciality of the house, with classic catch-of-the-day dishes on offer including fresh crab sandwiches, mussels and fish pie.
And while you’re here, make sure you pick up some of the amazing Craster Kippers from L.Robson & Sons' famous smokehouse over the road.
The Lord Crewe Arms, Blanchland
This ancient, fortress-like inn has everything you could want from a pub - roaring fires, flagstone floors, snug corners and ghosts, of course. With a history stretching back to the 10th century, it sits in the heart of the lovely village of Blanchland and was once part of the abbey.
These days it’s an excellent hotel and restaurant, as well as a pub, with an elegant menu of seasonal delights, served by a head chef who has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens.
Sonnet, Alnwick
A warm and friendly spot, Sonnet serves 14 courses to just 14 guests per night. It’s located in Alnwick, in what was once a bathroom showroom but is now a smart space painted chic dark blue. The food is exemplary, refined fine dining that’s impressive but also accessible thanks to the restaurant’s welcoming and unpretentious vibe.
The Feathers Inn, Hedley on the Hill
The perfect cosy country pub for a cold and windy day, or indeed a nice sunny one, the Feathers is in an out-of-the-way village between Hadrian’s Wall and the Tyne Valley.
If you’re looking for hearty, well-cooked food this is the place. They have a long list of local suppliers, from locally-caught game, to fresh fish from the North Sea - and for pudding try apple crumble and custard or a selection of Northumbrian cheeses.
Pine, East Wallhouses
A Michelin-star winner, Pine is one of the most innovative restaurants in the North East. Housed in what was once a cow barn and is now a contemporary dining room with views over the rolling landscape, it’s a stunning site.
The food is outstanding. Foraged from the Northumberland countryside, or harvested from the restaurant’s own kitchen garden, the menu is high-end, inventive and exciting.
The Rat Inn, Anick
What a spot for a Sunday roast. The Rat sits in a glorious location on the village green of the little hamlet of Anick, with vast green swathes of the Tyne Valley spread out below. Top-notch gastro pub grub is on the menu, plus a cellar of well-kept local ales.
Where to stay in Northumberland
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Northumberland? These are our handpicked tips on the best spots to base yourself -whether you're after coastal charm, countryside peace, or historic towns.
What is the nicest part of Northumberland?
Northumberland is awash with staggering scenery and beautiful landscape, so you can take your pick. We just love the coastline, with its miles of glorious beaches and dunes. The Northumberland Coast National Landscape runs from Amble to Berwick-upon-Tweed and contains abundant wildlife, pretty seaside villages and the fabulous coastal path, all watched over by craggy, ancient castles.
In the northern part of the county is Northumberland National Park, one of England’s wildest and most beautiful spots. Choose from any number of glorious locations, but we think the Coquet Valley is a gorgeous hidden gem. The clear and fast-flowing river takes you past the pretty village of Rothbury and deep into the heart of the countryside.
Where is a good base in Northumberland?
Northumberland has lots of charming towns and villages. If you’re planning to spend time on the coast, Alnwick makes a great base. This market town offers easy access to the region’s beautiful beaches and also the national park. You could also consider Seahouses. Right on the coast, it’s a lovely little fishing village, with the famous Holy Island and the Farne Islands just off-shore.
Further inland, the small town of Hexham is perfectly placed for visiting the surrounding countryside. There’s a handy collection of shops and restaurants, with Hadrian’s Wall to the north of the town and the heather moors of the North Pennies to the south.
Where is the best seaside town in Northumberland?
Bamburgh has been voted the best seaside town in the UK by Which? four years in a row and it’s not hard to see why. It’s got a pristine sandy beach and handsome streets, with views of the dramatic castle peeking around every corner.
Almouth is a picture-perfect village by the sea, located where the River Aln meets the North Sea. It’s a village of pretty houses, fronting the long sandy estuary where birdlife and nature thrive.
We also love Warkworth, a historic coastal village at the mouth of the River Coquet. There’s a castle of course, this is Northumberland - plus some nice shops, cafes and art galleries. The beautiful beach lies a short walk from the village.
What is the main town in Northumberland?
The biggest city in the region is Newcastle. It’s a thriving metropolis famous for football, lively nightlife and its friendly Geordie residents. However, Newcastle isn’t actually in Northumberland, since the 1970s it’s been a separate local authority.
Northumberland itself doesn’t have any cities. The biggest town is Blyth, located a few miles up the coast from Newcastle. It’s a place with a rich industrial history, a working harbour and some excellent fish and chips.
The main administrative centre of the county is the traditional town of Morpeth. On the banks of the River Wansbeck, it’s a quiet, pleasant spot with cobbled streets, plenty of shops and restaurants, and a farmers’ market.
Getting to Northumberland
Northumberland, located in the far northeast of England, is easily accessible from across the UK. Whether you’re coming from London, Manchester, Birmingham, or Scotland, there are multiple travel options including car, train, and bus. Planning your journey in advance ensures a smooth arrival so you can start exploring the county’s castles, sweeping coastlines, charming villages, and wildlife-rich national parks.
Getting to Northumberland by car
Driving to Northumberland is straightforward from most parts of the UK. From London, the journey takes around 5–6 hours via the A1, while routes from Manchester or the Midlands take about 3–4 hours. From Scotland, Edinburgh is only around 2 hours away by road. Once there, you’ll find parking available in towns, coastal villages, and near popular attractions like Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick, and Hadrian’s Wall, giving you the flexibility to explore hidden corners and scenic countryside.
Travel tips by car:
- Use the A1 for journeys from London and the Midlands; the A69 connects from the west.
- Many coastal villages and attractions offer dedicated car parks — check ahead, especially in peak season.
- If driving long distances, consider breaking your trip with an overnight stop in York, Durham, or Newcastle.
- Allow extra time for country lanes and rural roads, especially near the National Park or coastline.
- Use a sat-nav or map app with traffic updates to avoid congestion around Newcastle or on the A1.
Getting to Northumberland by train
Northumberland is well served by rail. Major stations include Newcastle, Alnmouth, and Berwick-upon-Tweed, all of which connect directly with London, Edinburgh, and other major UK cities. From Newcastle, local trains and buses run to towns such as Morpeth, Hexham, and Alnwick. Train travel is a stress-free, sustainable option for long-distance visitors looking to reach the region quickly.
Travel tips by train:
- Book tickets early for the best prices from London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, or Edinburgh.
- Mainline stops include Newcastle, Alnmouth (for Alnwick), and Berwick-upon-Tweed.
- From stations, use local buses or taxis to reach villages, castles, and the coast.
- Travel off-peak for quieter carriages and better fares.
- Consider railcards for discounts if travelling with family or in groups.
Getting to Northumberland by bus
For those relying on public transport, regional and local bus services connect Newcastle and other towns with key destinations such as Alnwick, Hexham, Bamburgh, and the coast. Buses are an economical and eco-friendly choice, making it easy to explore without a car. Many routes pass near historic sites, nature reserves, and walking trails, so visitors can start their adventures as soon as they arrive.
Travel tips by bus:
- Check timetables in advance, as rural services may be limited in frequency.
- Popular routes include Newcastle to Alnwick, Hexham, and coastal villages.
- Services often stop near castles, national park entrances, and coastal walks.
- Contactless payment is widely accepted, though some rural routes may require exact change.
- Combine bus travel with walking or cycling to enjoy Northumberland’s scenic landscapes.
What time of year should you visit Northumberland?
Northumberland is a year-round destination, but each season offers something unique — from wildlife spectacles and coastal walks to stargazing in Europe’s largest Dark Sky Park. Planning your visit around the seasons can help you make the most of the landscapes, events, and attractions.
Spring in Northumberland (March–May)
Spring brings longer days, blooming landscapes, and a fresh buzz of wildlife activity. The county’s castles and gardens come alive with colour, and walking trails are quieter before the summer crowds arrive.
Things to do in spring:
- See daffodils and tulips at Alnwick Garden and Cragside’s woodland grounds.
- Spot puffins returning to the Farne Islands from late spring.
- Walk stretches of Hadrian’s Wall with mild weather and fewer visitors.
- Enjoy peaceful coastal walks along empty beaches like Embleton Bay.
Summer in Northumberland (June–August)
Summer is the most popular season, perfect for exploring the county’s castles, coastline, and outdoor attractions. Warm weather makes it ideal for boat trips, beach days, and family adventures.
Things to do in summer:
- Take a boat tour to the Farne Islands to see puffins, seals, and seabirds.
- Visit Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle, and Warkworth Castle in full swing.
- Relax on sandy beaches such as Bamburgh, Beadnell, and Druridge Bay.
- Attend local festivals and outdoor events across towns and villages.
Autumn in Northumberland (September–November)
Autumn is a quieter season, but one filled with atmosphere — crisp air, golden foliage, and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for walking, cycling, and cultural escapes.
Things to do in autumn:
- Walk through Northumberland National Park to enjoy autumn colours.
- Spot red squirrels in Kielder Forest as they prepare for winter.
- Visit historic market towns like Alnwick and Hexham during harvest season.
- Stargaze at Kielder Observatory during the early nights of autumn.
Winter in Northumberland (December–February)
Winter in Northumberland is dramatic and serene, with windswept beaches, cosy pubs, and magical seasonal events. While some attractions may have shorter hours, the landscapes are at their most atmospheric.
Things to do in winter:
- Explore empty beaches along the Northumberland Coast Path.
- Visit castles like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh for dramatic coastal views.
- Experience Christmas markets and festive events in Alnwick and Newcastle.
- Stargaze under the clear skies of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.
- Warm up by the fire in traditional country pubs after winter walks.
Some of our favourite attractions in Northumberland
| Attraction / Place | Type | Location (Nearest Town) | Best Season | Highlights | Tips / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bamburgh Castle | Castle | Bamburgh (coast) | April–October | Dramatic clifftop views | Check opening times, parking fees |
| Hadrian’s Wall Path | Historic / Walk | Across Northumberland | Late spring–autumn | Ruins, scenic walks | Some sections remote, carry water |
| Farne Islands (boat tour) | Wildlife / Island | Seahouses | May–August | Puffins, seals, seabirds | Boat needed, weather-dependent |
| Alnwick Castle / Gardens | Castle & Gardens | Alnwick | Summer best for gardens | Gardens, castle interiors | Check garden opening hours |
| Cragside House & Grounds | Historic House | Near Rothbury | Spring–Autumn | Woodland gardens, architecture | Some paths steep / muddy in bad weather |
Coolstays in Northumberland
Here are some of our favourite cottages, farmhouses and cabins for a break in Northumberland:
