Jemima Kirkwood
17 November 2020
Northumberland is home to some incredible landscapes and rural settings which are the perfect locations for countryside retreats.
With rolling hills and breathtaking views, the serenity of the Northumberland countryside is something you should consider when planning your next self-catering break. The Northumberland National Park is a popular outdoor playground for those looking to get into the wilderness, the coastline is great for beach days and water sports, and the countryside is there for those who want to escape everything and everyone!
Our remote country cottages in Northumberland offer lovely places to stay, from which you can explore the surroundings. Quite often set apart from other houses and buildings, you can get a real sense of peace and quiet which can be really desirable, especially for those who live a full-on, busy life. Those who are into walks and cycle rides will enjoy the relaxed network of country lanes that link up the small idyllic English villages, and for those into the more arduous sports – the National Park is within easy reach of most countryside settings.
Here are six of the best country cottages to rent in Northumberland.
Mindrum, Northumberland – sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
“Excellent cottage, lovely quiet location within easy distance of many places and lovely walks. Ideal if you like cycling or running.” Barbara, 2020
This is an idyllic traditional stone cottage set in the Cheviot foothills of Northumberland National Park, with spectacular views across open countryside. Close to the village of Millfield, you are secluded and private, yet close to a pub and farm shop if you need some supplies or a tasty meal. The Cheviot Hills offer great walking, cycling, horse riding and golf along with other adventurous activities.
The cottage itself is small and cosy, sleeping four. It has a lovely, fenced garden with a well-kept lawn, and its surroundings include rolling hills and ponies! The picnic outside offers a nice place for morning coffee or light lunches and the door from the living room is a nice one to leave open and let the fresh air in. The interiors of the cottage mix light tones with charming furniture, creating a really homely feel. There is parking for three cars and also storage for bicycles in an adjoining shed. Two dogs are welcome at this cottage.
Alnwick, Northumberland – sleeps 2
“Cottage was spotlessly clean and well appointed. There is a garden with outside seating, ideal for breakfast. It's a real cottage garden which attracts many wild birds.” David, 2020
Clematis would be the perfect rural retreat for two people looking to grab a weekend break away or a longer romantic holiday together. With two bedrooms, it would also suit a small group of friends, or small family! It is an idyllic cottage with a lovely kitchen and a comfortable sitting room with wood burner for those cosy nights in.
There is a gorgeous outdoor seating area looking onto a magical garden which is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee with a good book, or quiet time together listening to all the birds. Close by is Alnwick Gardens and Castle, the traditional market town of Rothbury and the Northumberland National Park, and if you head east you can find the beaches of Alnmouth, Embleton and Bamburgh.
Kielder, Northumberland National Park – sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
“The cottage was so much more than we thought it was going be. Very well equipped and very clean. The views were amazing and access to Rothbury was perfect.” Mark, 2019
This is a bright and spacious country retreat in Northumberland with picturesque views over the Coquet Valley. On both the ground and first floors there are French doors opening out onto a patio (ground floor) and balcony (first floor) which means you can enjoy the great views from the comfort of the cottage. There is a fully equipped, modern kitchen with a dining/family room which includes a TV and sofa, so you have plenty of facilities to keep everyone happy.
The Annex is just a 10-minute walk to the village of Rothbury which comes complete with independent shops, galleries, craft shops, cafes and pubs. The Simonside Hills are close by too for those who enjoy countryside walks and cycling, and there are many woodland walks to explore as well as lakes and gardens. The cottage welcomes three dogs who will all love the area too!
Rothbury, Northumberland – sleeps 2 + 1 dog
“This cottage had everything we needed for a stress-free relaxing break. Spotlessly clean and very comfortable. Quiet location, lovely views and amazing dark skies!” Margot, 2019
Set in the Northumberland National Park, this cosy cottage is an ideal rural retreat for a couple looking to get into the wilderness and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The National Park boasts one of the largest areas of dark skies in the UK, and you can experience the amazing spread of stars from your own private decking. The views from this spot are wonderful as you relax in the garden, and the cows pottering in the fields make for nice holiday neighbours.
Activities to be enjoyed from the cottage include mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking and woodland walks, all of which are on your doorstep. The cottage is cosy and compact and the wood burner in the sitting room makes for perfect cosy nights in.
Shotley Bridge, Northumberland – sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
“Glasshouse is beautifully appointed, very comfortable and with stunning views out to Holy Island. It is also ideally located for A1 and coastal route.” Robert, 2020
This is a modern, stylish and unusual holiday cottage set a short drive away from Bamburgh on Northumberland’s coast. Surrounded by fields and landscape, with views out over the sea, this is a wonderful country cottage just waiting to be enjoyed. Glasshouse is a luxurious cottage, decorated and furnished to the highest of standards, and guests will love the bespoke kitchen and comfortable living area with Smart TV.
Throughout the house there are large floor-to-ceiling windows offering up 360-degree views, and the outdoor decking area is the perfect spot for lazy days, al fresco dining, and those evenings where you want to simply stargaze. With the coastline on your doorstep, there is loads you can get up to when staying here – boat trips, beach days, water sports and visits to coastal castles!
Northumberland National Park – sleeps 5 + 3 dogs
“Our stay was great; the cottage setting is beautiful and peaceful. If you are looking for a place to get away, you couldn’t ask for more. The cottage is stunning and has been well designed, with the perfect balance between cosy and modern.” Mark, 2019
This is a beautifully refurbished, traditional country cottage located in a peaceful hamlet just a 20-minute drive from Rothbury. The cottage’s wonderful original features have been lovingly retained and a beautiful brand new wing has been added, creating more light and extra space. It has a large garden with great views and there is even a low-level treehouse for the kids to play in!
Bridge End Cottage offers the best of both worlds and is the perfect base for small groups of friends and family looking for somewhere great to explore the surrounding area from. It is a desirable setting for walkers and cyclists being set in the Cheviot Hills, and attractions like Cragside House and Gardens, Alnwick Castle and Chillingham Castle are all within easy reach.
To find out more about what you can do in the area check out our guide to the Northumberland National Park.
Have we inspired you to come and stay in our Northumberland coast and country cottages? View our full collection of self-catering remote cottages today!
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.