About Northumberland

Deemed “the most tranquil county in England” by the Campaign to Protect Rural England, Northumberland is truly something special. Bordered by Scotland to the north and Tyneside to the south, this region is the least populated, least developed county that England has to offer, and it is for this reason that it has become such a popular destination for those who want to find some peace and quiet, but still want plenty to do.

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the one hundred miles of unspoiled coastline provides plenty of fantastic walks, as well as horse riding, fishing, bird watching, scuba diving, surfing and boat trips to see puffins, seals, dolphins, porpoises and whales. Freshly caught fish and seafood is a specialty of this part of Northumberland and you can’t leave without trying some fresh crab! The coastal villages of Seahouses, Beadnell and Bamburgh offer beautiful locations from which to explore this region.

Further inland, Northumberland National Park has plenty to offer those who like to get out and about. The Cheviot Hills are a popular destination for keen walkers, and the views from the top of The Cheviot, the largest of the hills, are truly spectacular. Hot air balloon rides over this area are particularly wonderful. The village of Rothbury is situated nearby and is thus the ideal location from which to explore this more rural part of Northumberland. The village has a lot to offer for the visitor, with plenty of amenities, and exceptionally good fishing in the River Coquet. Located just out of the village, National Trust property Cragside House, the once home of Lord Armstrong and the first house ever to be lit by hydroelectric power, offers plenty for all members of the family. The gardens and estate extend to 400 hectares with one of Europe’s largest rock gardens, and the tallest tree in England. In early 2009, Armstrong Bridge was reopened for the first time in 30 years.

Steeped in history, Northumberland has more castles than anywhere else in England, is the birthplace of English Christianity and was once the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire. Alnwick Castle, which is the second largest castle in the country which is still inhabited, is also renowned for its role in the Harry Potter films, and offers plenty of entertainment for younger children. The Alnwick Garden, situated next to the castle, is popular with families as well as green-fingered visitors. The fantastic Tree House is a child’s dream and the restaurant within offers a great menu which sources locally grown and reared ingredients.

On the County Durham boundary, the village of Blanchland is the perfect location if you are keen to explore sailing and fishing on the Derwent Reservoir. This area is also great for birdwatchers who wish to see rare Red Kites flying. Nearby Hexham and Corbridge are delightful rural towns with beautiful river walks.

Further east, the city of Newcastle Upon-Tyne has plenty to offer. Renowned for its nightlife, if that is what you are seeking then you’ve come to the right place. In the last few years, the shopping in the city has really improved and if you can’t find it in Newcastle then you most definitely can find it in the Metro Centre in Gateshead which is the largest shopping centre in the European Union. The iconic quayside is definitely worth a visit, and whilst you’re there cross over the Millennium Bridge to the Baltic art gallery and the Sage music venue – both are worth a look, if only for the views of the Tyne that they provide. The Discovery Museum, Centre for Life and Great North Museum are fantastic days out for families.

All in all, Northumberland has what you are looking for. If it is a quiet, escape from the busy-ness of ordinary life, then this county where time has almost stood still provides just that. You can choose to do nothing but read a good book in front of a roaring log fire or you can take the opportunity to explore the region and walk, fish, ride, white water raft, sail, golf or shop your way around it. We look forward to your arrival!