June 20, 2024
Have you ever wondered where you can walk through centuries-old castles, explore unspoiled natural landscapes, and even stargaze under one of the darkest skies in England? That place is Northumberland.
Nestled in the northeast corner of England, this mesmerising county offers a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Join us as we explore the ten best things to do in Northumberland that will take your visit from ordinary to extraordinary.
Before we start, you may also be interested in our post on the best walks in Northumberland.
Step back into Roman history by exploring Hadrian's Wall. Built nearly two millennia ago, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches for 73 miles and offers more than just a glimpse into ancient architecture and defensive strategies. You can follow various walking routes that showcase forts, turrets, and ancient artefacts along the way. It's an ideal day trip for those keen on history or looking for a picturesque hike.
To find out more, read about walking Hadrian’s Wall here.
Local Tip: If you're planning your trip, why not pack some delicious pastries or sandwiches from Grant's Bakery in Corbridge for a delightful picnic along the route?
Step into the magical world of Alnwick Castle, a place that gained international prominence as the filming location for Hogwarts in the "Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone" movie. As you wander through its courtyards, archways, and bailey, you can almost hear the echoes of young wizards and witches practising their spells.
It's the perfect spot for both history aficionados and Harry Potter fans to revel in the castle's rich past and its cinematic fame. You can even practice your quidditch moves on the same grounds where the iconic magical sport was portrayed on-screen.
Adjacent to the castle is The Alnwick Garden, a sprawling 12-acre wonderland of horticultural artistry. Its showpiece is the Grand Cascade, a stunning tiered water feature so grand it could rival Vegas spectacles.
For a darker twist, join a guided tour of the Poison Garden, which showcases over 100 intoxicating and narcotic plants. Make sure to drop by the massive wooden treehouse, which serves as a unique dining experience, even if you're just visiting the car park.
Perched on a dolerite bluff with a sweeping view of a beautiful sandy beach, Bamburgh Castle stands as a testament to the rich history and grandeur of Northumberland. Unlike many other regional fortresses that fell into ruin, Bamburgh Castle has been meticulously restored and maintained. The 19th-century industrialist Lord Armstrong purchased the castle for a steal and invested a fortune in its refurbishment. Today, his descendants continue to reside within its imposing stone walls.
The castle's core remains Norman, but its renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries have reinforced its awe-inspiring presence. A walk through the staterooms offers a modern stately home experience complete with grand paintings, tapestries, and even a snooker table. Yet it's the exterior that often captivates visitors the most. Venture beyond the castle walls to explore the charming village of Bamburgh. From traditional Kippers-in-a-bun at local delis to fancy lobster dishes, the high street provides a culinary journey fitting of its royal backdrop.
The views from the grassy dunes below the bluff are particularly striking; the panorama of the castle set against the sandy beach is one of England's loveliest vistas. If you time your visit for a Sunday, you might catch the local cricket team playing directly under the castle walls, offering a scene that's quintessentially English.
Steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle offer a glimpse into Northumberland's tumultuous past. This evocative fortress stands as a historical testament to the region's long-standing role as a contested buffer between England and Scotland.
Located on a secluded headland flanked by the picturesque villages of Craster and Embleton, the castle is a relic from the Wars of the Roses era. It was here that the Earl of Lancaster sought refuge, only to be captured and subsequently executed on the orders of King Edward II.
Today, reaching Dunstanburgh Castle is a markedly more peaceful experience. A short but scenic walk from Craster allows you to watch the castle's sprawling ruins gradually come into view, set against the backdrop of Northumberland's dramatic coastline. The three-story Great Gatehouse remains the most imposing structure, now standing sentinel next to the pastoral farmlands that encircle the ruins.
While the exteriors offer arguably the best vistas of the castle, stepping inside the ruins is an option that allows for a closer examination of its bygone grandeur.
Perched on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, this ancient priory holds more than just the remnants of stone walls and arches. Founded in 635 AD by Saint Aidan, who travelled from Iona, the priory evolved into a significant hub for Christian learning and spirituality over the centuries. Today, the island retains its sacred allure, with much of its history still palpable amidst its modern attractions.
At the heart of this tranquil four-square-mile island lie the haunting yet beautiful ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, whispering tales of Saint Aidan, Saint Cuthbert, and the early roots of Christianity in England. Wander through the ancient abbey to truly feel the weight of history and spirituality that envelops the island.
But Lindisfarne is not just about its ruins. The island is also home to a picturesque castle perched on a rocky outcrop and the award-winning Gertrude Jekyll Garden, named Country File's 2019 Garden of the Year. And for those looking to sample local flavours, don't miss the chance to try Lindisfarne Mead at St. Aidan’s Winery, a fortified wine deeply rooted in the island’s history. If coffee is more your style, enjoy freshly roasted Pilgrims Coffee at the village café.
For the more adventurous, the island offers a captivating 3-hour walk, mainly focusing on the northern beaches and dunes, details of which can be found in various local guides.
Practical Information:
Situated just a stone's throw away from the coast between Seahouses and Bamburgh, the Farne Islands offer a truly unparalleled wildlife experience. As one of the UK's most important seabird sanctuaries, the islands host around 290 different species and swell with over 100,000 pairs of breeding birds at peak times throughout the year.
Visitors are allowed to land on two of the islands, Inner Farne and Staple, from the end of March to the beginning of November. The sanctuary is home to an array of seabirds like Arctic terns, shags, razorbills, eider ducks, and guillemots, all of which are remarkably tolerant of human presence. This allows for an extraordinary opportunity to observe these birds up close in their natural habitat.
But the star of the show is undoubtedly the puffin. Watch these charming birds embark on their routine voyages out to sea, only to return awkwardly yet adorably waddling to their nests, bills filled with fish. It's a sight that has captivated birdwatchers and nature lovers for generations.
The islands are not just a haven for birds; they are also home to significant colonies of grey seals. A boat tour around the Farne Islands will let you navigate among nesting birds, spot seals lounging on the shores, and even dodge shags as they circle overhead. For the best experience, consider visiting during the peak season between April and August. More information can be found on the National Trust website.
If you're an aficionado of natural beauty and local charm, the Northumberland Coastal Path offers an unparalleled walking experience. Meandering from the southern tip of Cresswell all the way to the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north, this trail is an idyllic stretch of approximately 100 kilometres of coastline that showcases Britain's stunning scenery at its best.
Journey through a diverse landscape that changes as frequently as the tides; one moment, you're ambling along expansive, golden beaches framed by windswept dunes, and the next you're passing through quaint villages that seem to have captured time in a bottle. These charming hamlets offer not only visual delights but also sensory ones—imagine the aroma of freshly caught fish being prepared in local pubs, accompanied by the frothy goodness of regionally brewed ales.
Although the trail could be conquered in a challenging 3 to 6 days for those looking for a long-distance trek, it is equally accessible for shorter, more leisurely day walks. This flexibility allows you to explore segments of the path at your own pace, selecting the sections that most resonate with your interests and time constraints.
The beaches of Northumberland are among the UK's most stunning coastal getaways, making them ideal spots for a weekend retreat. Whether you're into water sports, beachcombing, or simply soaking up the sun, here are a few beaches that you won't want to miss.
When you step onto the expansive golden shores of Embleton Bay, you'll find yourself under the watchful eye of Dunstanburgh Castle's ruins. This idyllic beach is just beyond the dunes of the quaint medieval village of Embleton. Here, you can spend an effortless day enjoying panoramic views and perhaps even a picnic, all with the castle as your backdrop.
A crescent of soft sand creates the ideal setting for aquatic adventures at Beadnell Bay. This family-friendly beach is a hot spot for surfing, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Local outfitter KA Adventures offers equipment rentals and lessons to help you make the most of your time on the water. Don't forget to drop by The Bait—a cosy kiosk in the parking lot—for their special Thursday Lobster Nights.
If you're looking for tranquillity, venture over to Sugar Sands. This secluded cove, encircled by rocky formations and stunning vistas, is well worth the 30-minute trek from either Boulmer or Howick. The isolation means you'll often find that you have this pristine sanctuary all to yourself, making it a perfect spot for undisturbed relaxation.
Each of these beaches brings its own unique charm to the ruggedly beautiful coastline of Northumberland, offering an array of experiences for every kind of beach-goer. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone simply looking to unwind, Northumberland's beaches are the place to be.
When touring the charming town of Corbridge in Northumberland, be sure to carve out time for a visit to Grants Bakery, a haven for pastry enthusiasts and cake connoisseurs alike. Established as a cornerstone of Corbridge's culinary scene, the bakery has a reputation for serving up some of the area's most delectable treats.
You'll find it impossible to resist the bakery's range of offerings, but some products simply stand out. The Tipsy Cake, a unique blend of cake and alcohol, makes for a delightful and intoxicating treat. For those who prefer the classics, the Victoria Sponge Cake is a harmonious medley of fluffy sponge, cream, and jam—a quintessential British delicacy.
But it doesn't end there. If you're in the mood for something a little different yet equally tantalizing, the Raspberry & White Chocolate Scone is a delicious twist on a traditional favorite, offering a balance of sweet and tart flavours.
The inviting atmosphere in the bakery adds to the experience, making it a cosy spot to relax with a cup of coffee while relishing your chosen treat. And for those eager to delve deeper into the art of baking, Grants Bakery often hosts baking workshops, allowing you to hone your skills and take a slice of Corbridge's culinary tradition back home.
Whether you're out to satisfy your sweet tooth or looking to capture the essence of Corbridge's food culture, Grants Bakery provides an unforgettable indulgence that is sure to be a highlight of your Northumberland visit.
As you journey through the captivating landscapes of Northumberland, the allure of its grand stately homes beckons, offering a delightful detour into the region's rich history and heritage.
Operated by English Heritage, Belsay Hall is a cornucopia of architectural wonders, blending Greek Revival, Jacobean, and Medieval designs. The imposing hall features pillars that pay homage to ancient Greek temples, while a medieval castle and Jacobean manor add layers to its historical complexity. The quarry garden is another must-see, teeming with exotic plants that flourish amid labyrinthine channels carved into the rock.
Cragside House is not just a stately home but also a tribute to its original owner, Victorian industrialist Lord Armstrong. This pioneering spirit filled the house with ahead-of-its-time conveniences, all operated by hydroelectricity. From ingenious fire alarms and passenger lifts to an authentic Turkish bath, Cragside is a living museum of Victorian innovation. Complementing the house are sprawling gardens that include mazes, woodland paths, and scenic trails.
Steeped in aristocratic tradition, Howick Hall is the ancestral abode of Lord Grey. Famous for a unique blend of tea crafted specifically for the local water, the estate offers a blend of history and horticulture. Although the tea service may have modernised over time, the charm of the gardens endures. Best visited from spring to mid-summer, these lush expanses provide a colourful backdrop for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
From the imposing walls of Bamburgh Castle to the serene beauty of Lindisfarne, from the bustling wildlife of the Farne Islands to the romantic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland offers an eclectic mix of experiences that captivate the soul and ignite the imagination. Whether you're walking along its stunning coastal path, delighting in culinary treats like those found at Grant's Bakery in Corbridge, or stepping back in time at its grand stately homes, there's no shortage of treasures to unearth in this enchanting region.
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Northumberland is its seamless blend of the past and present. Here, medieval ruins coexist with modern comforts, and centuries-old traditions find a home alongside contemporary innovations. Its rich tapestry of history, nature, and culture makes Northumberland not just a destination but a journey through time and space, one that beckons with new adventures at every turn.
Here are some great resources for exploring Northumberland:
Photo by Bruce Edwards on Unsplash
