places to visit on the northumberland coast

The most charming towns and villages on the Northumberland Coast

Spanning some 40 miles of coastline from Berwick-Upon-Tweed to the River Coquet estuary, the Northumberland Coast is dotted with some of the United Kingdom’s most stunning spots. An officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the region attracts huge numbers of visitors each year, drawn here by the picturesque scenery, historic landmarks, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The harbour in Amble set against a stunning sky (Photo: alsimages1 via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Northumberland Coast is home to a large number of enticing towns and villages, some situated directly by the sea and others positioned more inland. At TravelMag.com we decided to do some research and select 12 of the most charming towns and villages set along this incomparable stretch of coastal England and nearby. You’ll find our pick below.

Boasting picture-postcard qualities, Alnmouth combines all the appeal of a seaside village with plenty of practical amenities, including several independently run restaurants and shops. The main beach has a generous stretch of golden sand and can become busy during peak months, but for respite from the crowds there’s a much more quite beach just south of the estuary. The town is also home to the oldest nine-hold links course in England as well as a small museum dedicated to Northumberland’s ferrymen.

Small boats bob in the River Aln in Alnmouth (Photo: Andrew Cheal via Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0)

A quintessential British fishing village, Seahouses is bookended by two golden sandy beaches at its north and south ends that attract sizeable numbers of sun-seekers during warmer climes. Away from the sandy shore, the village’s pretty harbour is an ideal spot for sitting back and watching the fishing boats pass in and out. A popular excursion from Seahouses is The Farne Islands, one of the UK’s most abundant areas for birdlife, which is a quick and easy boat ride away.

Fishing boats sit side by side in Seahouses (Photo: Matthew Hartley via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Perched on a headland at the mouth of the River Coquet, Amble has and continues to be a vibrant fishing town. Visitors can even get a taste of life as a fisherman by taking a chartered boat out to sea here, or learn how to cook freshly cooked fish at the Northumberland Seafood Centre which is located in the town centre. Other notable attractions include the 12th-century Warkworth Castle & Hermitage, which makes for a great day out with the family. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, there’s also a renowned surf school in Amble offering one-off or regular lessons.

The village of Bamburgh is one of Northumberland’s most popular tourist spots thanks to its rugged coastal charm, iconic castle and exceptional walking trails. I also has a pristine beach set against a backdrop of sweeping sand dunes, with the dramatic scenery attracting surfers, dog walkers and horse riders, as well as the occasional brave soul fancying a dip in the ocean. Perched on a volcanic outcrop and surrounded by verdant countryside, Bamburgh Castle – once home to the kings of ancient Northumbria – is also a magnet for visitors

A views across craggy rocks towards Bamburgh Castle (Photo: herdiephoto via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

If your idea of a charming town is one packed with small, independent gift shops and boutiques, then Corbridge won’t fail to disappoint. There’s plenty of history to enjoy here too, with the former garrison town still home to remnants of buildings that stood here during ancient Roman times. Corbridge is also renowned for its annual festival which sees music, street theatre, and a beer tent take over the town for three magical days each summer.

The delightful farming hamlet of Howick is the birthplace of Earl Grey tea, having been home to the Grey family from 1319 until the death of the 5th Earl Grey in 1963. They resided at Howick Hall, which is the village’s standout attraction thanks to its spectacular formal gardens, arboretum, and Earl Grey Tearooms serving up home-cooked scones and cakes. For a more energetic activity, you can take a scenic bike ride along the National Cycle Network Route 1 and there are also several popular coastal walks nearby.

A genteel riverside view in Howick (Photo: Dave_S. via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Situated at the mouth of the River tweed, close to the Scottish border, the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed boasts the notable title of England’s most northerly town. But there’s far more to the town than this geographical quirk, with several well-maintained beaches and stunning coastal scenery attracting a steady stream of visitors. Head inland and the town walls serve as an imposing reminder of its tumultuous past as a battleground between the English and Scots, while eye-catching 18th- and 19th-century architecture add to the visual appeal.

Set inland, about 10 minutes by road from the coast, the medieval market town of Alnwick hums with activity, with locals and visitors a perpetual presence along its winding cobbled streets, where they are drawn to the array of charming independent shops and eateries offering a flavour of the local retail and foodie scenes. Venture out of the centre and you’ll soon reach the stunning medieval Alnwick Castle, which eagle eyed fans of a certain fictional child wizard may recognise from the silver screen (the castle was the location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, for the uninitiated). Other local attractions include Alnwick Garden, offering fairytale-esque dining amid the treetops in one of the world’s largest tree houses, an acclaimed theatre, and several atmospheric inns.

Alnwick Castle seen beyond a bed of pretty flowers (Photo: WISEBUYS21 via Flickr / CC0 1.0)

Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

Home to Northumberland’s longest promenade, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea has undergone something of a transformation in recent years, with a fully renovated village seafront, an eye-catching public sculpture, and a growing number of shops, restaurants and other amenities. The town is also a haven for bird-lovers who come to see flocks of birds descend here during migration season. For a dash of maritime culture, the Newbiggin Maritime Centre houses a fishing gallery and a historic all-weather lifeboat.

Despite the lack of a beach, the tranquil fishing village of Craster positively oozes character and charm. It is a popular starting point for several spectacular walking trails, including one that leads you to the impressive ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The village itself boasts an attractive harbour and has also gained a reputation as something of a foodie hotspot, particularly among fish and seafood lovers, with kippers being a particularly popular local delicacy.

Fishing boats moored on land in Craster (Photo: Dave_S. via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Water sports enthusiasts descend on Beadnell in their droves thanks to its glorious stretch of wide sandy beach, set in a picturesque horseshoe shaped bay, and impressive ocean swell that provides challenging conditions for suffers, bodyboarders and jet skiers. The only west-facing port on England’s east coast, the village is also very well sheltered, adding to its reputation for aquatic fun. Wander inland and you’ll find a sprinkling of old cottages and pretty houses, while in the summer the quaint harbour is filled with colourful boats and pleasure crafts. The village is also home to a fully restored limeworks site owned by the National Trust.

Low Newton by-the-Sea

An 18th-century fishing village, Low Newton-by-the-Sea is almost entirely owned by the National Trust and it’s easy to see why. An open ended square of cream-washed cottages looks out onto the glorious beach where kids can regularly be seen enjoying rock pooling while parents recline on the soft sand. The village is also renowned for its excellent bird watching opportunities, with a nature reserve overlooking Newton Pool home to two sturdy bird hides. In the village itself, one of the region’s finest microbreweries is adjoined to the acclaimed Ship Inn pub, where patrons can sample a range of in-house brews.

The smooth, sandy shoreline of Low Newton by-the-Sea (Photo: Chris via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

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Northumbrian Coast: 10 Spots You Can’t Miss

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Designated as an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, the Northumbrian coast runs for 40 miles along the edge of North East England. As part of one of the least densely populated counties in the UK, many of the beaches in Northumberland are wild and rugged.

Dotted with extravagant ancient castles, the Northumberland coast is also brimming with a deep and tumultuous history from it’s battles involving the once heavily contested border with Scotland. In fact, Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England .

A Guide to the Northumbrian Coast

We started our journey along the Northumbrian coast at the very top, just a few miles from the Scottish border, in Berwick-upon-Tweed. Working our way through the Northumberland AONB and down the coastline to the harbour town of Amble.

In this blog post I want to share with you all the best places that we stopped at along the Northumberland coastline. And if you’ve never thought about visiting this gorgeous part of the world, hopefully inspire you to do so.

Getting To & Along the Northumbria Coast

By Train | There are direct trains to mainline stations at Berwick-upon Tweed for the North, or Alnmouth for the South, from most major cities in the UK. To get to other places along the Northumbrian coast, you’ll need to choose an alternative method of transport.

Check train prices and availability now.

By Bus | National bus services run into Berwick-upon-Tweed and Alnwick. You might need to change depending on where you are travelling from. The local Coast and Castles Connection service then runs between Newcastle and Berwick-upon-Tweed, connecting the coast.

Check bus prices and availability now.

By Car | Travelling along the Northumberland coast in your own transport is by far the best option. It gives you the most amount of flexibility to stop off wherever and whenever you like. And means you can visit Northumberland beaches not accessed by public transport.

Check car hire prices and availability now.

By Foot | Another option for exploring the beaches in Northumberland, if you enjoy long distance walking, is the Northumberland Coastal Path . Winding its way through pretty villages and over dramatic sand dunes, the 62 mile walking route is one of the most scenic in Europe.

Northumberland Coastline Must See Places

Berwick-upon-tweed.

England’s most northern town, Berwick for short, is situated at the mouth of the River Tweed and just a few miles from the Scottish border. Having switched hands between England and Scotland numerous times throughout the past, this walled town has a long and bloody history.

Yet surprisingly, despite the violent battles that were fought here, Berwick’s defensive town walls are still standing strong. Grabbing some fish and chips and having a wonder around them as we did is a great way to spend a few hours here.

Entry is free and at various points along the wall you’ll find information boards taking you through the compelling history. The views along the coast are stunningly dramatic and don’t miss taking in the sights of the three iconic bridges over the River Tweed.

Owing to its shape shifting past, cultures and people in Berwick-upon-Tweed are a vibrant mix of Scottish and English. It’s fascinating walking around, hearing people’s accents switch sometimes quite dramatically between Scottish and that of North East England.

Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Adding to it’s mysteriousness, this ancient island can only be accessed at certain times of the day. Outside of those twice daily time slots, the Holy Island is cut off from mainland England by the tide of the North Sea.

Varying throughout the year, you can find the timetable for the sea road online here .

This stop off in the Northumbrian coast is a deeply spiritual place. The history of Lindisfarne dates back to 635AD when Saint Aiden from Iona founded a monastery that became the epicentre of Christianity. From here the religion is said to have spread throughout the world.

To have time to explore the more remote parts of the island, such as The Links and Northern beaches, you’ll need to stay for a tide. If you stay overnight you’ll also get to experience the island at its most peaceful and hopefully be treated to one of its show stopping sunsets.

Camping is prohibited and accommodation limited so you will need to book this in advance.

But there’s plenty to see and experience during a Lindisfarne day trip. Our top recommendations are to visit Lindisfarne Priory ruins, the Wild Window and the Lookout viewing points, Lindisfarne Castle, then stop by Pilgrims Coffee House and Fudge Shop .

Also a haven for wildlife, during the summer months, Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve will also treat you to some seal spotting. Favourite low tide resting spots are the sandbanks and Guile point. During hide tide they can be seen from the harbour to castle footpath.

On the drive into Bamburgh, you’ll immediately see what all the fuss is about this stop off on the Northumberland coast. That is to say, the majestic Bamburgh Castle. Looming over the pretty town and stunning beach below it, the dramatic views really are something else.

The site is thought to have been inhabited for over 10,000 years in various forms and once the property of the English monarchy. After falling into disrepair it was bought by the Armstrong family who restored it and still own it.

Despite being a private residence, it is open to the public. An adult ticket costs £12.50 and parking is £3.00. Which is much much cheaper than the Northumbrian Council car park and you don’t have to actually go inside the Castle to park there – just a quick tip for you there.

There’s a lovely 6 mile Northumbrian coast walk through Bamburgh Beach, between Budle’s Bay and Seahouses. It’s a linear route so park your car or camper in a long stay car park in Seahouses and take a local bus to the track leading to Kiln Point. You can check the bus timetable here .

A traditional fishing village, this Northumberland seaside stop off still has a working port. There’s not so much to do specifically here, but it is bigger than places along the Northumberland coastal route so is a good place to stock up on anything you need.

There’s a really picturesque space overlooking the harbour with a series of stepped benches that’s great to enjoy some fish and chips from.

Other than that, most people come here to visit the Northumberland attraNorthumberland coastal walksction of the Farne Islands National Nature Reserve .

A cluster of islands scattered a few miles off the Northumberian coast, boat trips run daily from March to October. During these months the islands are inhabited by an abundance of wildlife including dolphins, seals and puffins.

Embleton Bay

This was our absolute favourite of the Northumberland beaches. Parking in a place called Dunstan Steads, just over the sand dunes you’ll find a stunning beach with a view of the epic Dunstanburgh Castle ruins to your right.

Walking left and coming back up from the beach at Dunstanburgh Golf Club will bring you to the charming village of Embleton. We highly recommend stopping off for a drink in the tranquil beer garden of Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel.

Or you can walk in the opposite direction to explore Dunstanburgh Castle itself more closely. It’s a National Trust site so if you’re planning on visiting a few of historic places in the UK over the coming year, it’s probably worth nabbing a National Trust membership.

Check National Trust Membership Prices

Dropping slightly inland here, a visit to the historic market town of Alnwick is another must for any Northumbrian coastal road trip. There’s plenty of things to do here, but two that are an absolute must are visiting Alnwick Castle and Barter Books.

Home to the 12th Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick castle is also a regular filming set. It has starred as Hogwarts in two Harry Potter films, regularly features in the English periodic drama, Downton Abbey and most recently in the latest Transformers film.

Then there’s Barter’s Books, which when it comes to the best things to do in Northumberland, is high on our list. Located in an old train station, it’s the largest second hand bookshop in the UK. We spent hours here and bought way too many books.

What’s more, if you happen to visit Alnwick on a Thursday or a Saturday, there’ll be an excellent local market going on selling lots of delicious fresh produce and handmade goods.

This looks like a lovely quaint coastal town. There’s pretty pastel coloured houses lined up along the shore and a wide sweeping beach. But I say it ‘looks like’, because that’s all we did, look at it from our campervan window.

The reason being that the only place that we could park was an extortionate £10 for motorhomes. It was a much more reasonable £3 for cars. There were some free on street parking too but unfortunately the spaces were too small for us so we dipped out.

But I want to include it here, because had we been able to get parked we think we’d have really enjoyed it. If you’re not travelling in your own vehicle it is on the coastal bus route.

There’s also a walk from Alnmouth that sounds fabulous. Walking back up the super scenic Northumberland coast path to the fishing village of Craster. Known for its buttered smoked kippers and crab sandwiches, it’s a popular foodie spot of the Northumberian coast.

It’s around 8 miles, so you can then hop on a bus back to Alnmouth, or do it in reverse if you prefer. Do let us know in the comments if you go to Alnmouth or do the walk to Craster and what it was like. It’s top of our list when we’re next back in the area.

It’s top of our list of places to visit in Northumberland when we’re next back in the area.

Tucked into a meander near the mouth of the River Coquet is our favourite village along the Northumberland Coast AONB. There’s a castle, a beach and an endearing village high street with plenty of traditional pubs. It’s just a really pleasant place to spend a few hours.

Warkworth Castle is run by English Heritage. So again if historical places in the UK are somewhere you’re planning on visiting on the regular this year, it might be worth taking advantage of picking up an English Heritage membership.

Check English Heritage Membership Prices

If you’re travelling down the Northumbria coast in a campervan as we were, there’s an awesome spot just outside the village and right near the beach for an overnight stop. There’s no facilities but it’s flat, free and has great views.

A popular port town at the mouth of the River Croquet. This final recommendation for places to go in Northumberland is a good base if you’re after plenty of things going on. There’s loads of pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants.

Then there’s harbour village retail pods selling art, crafts, gifts, food and drink. You can also walk north along the River Croquet from Amble up to Warkworth. The Amble Dunes Nature Reserve to the South is also well worth an exploration.

But the biggest attraction to Amble for most people is that it is a gateway for boat trips around Croquet Island. Every summer as many as 35,000 seabirds, including puffins, cram onto the tiny island to breed. Something very special to witness indeed.

Northumbrian Coast Accommodation

Northumberland beach hotels.

The Joiners Arms | Uniquely decorated rooms in a gorgeous and central coastal location with an excellent restaurant. Check prices and availability here now.

Cowrie Guest House | Homely and welcoming ensuite accommodation surrounded by history with a home cooked hearty breakfast. Check prices and availability here now.

The Victoria Hotel | Elegant and pet friendly rooms in a scenic village setting with views of Bamburgh Castle and Holy Island. Check prices and availability here now.

Hallsteads Apartments | Comfortable, modern living with beautiful garden terraces within 5 minutes walking distance of the beach. Check prices and availability here now.

Warkworth House Hotel | Situated in a charming village close to the beach and a castle. Ensuite rooms with breakfast and free parking. Check prices and availability here now.

Northumbria Coast Campsites

Dunstan Hill Caravan & Camping Site Greensfield Moor Farm Caravan Park Old Mill Caravan Site

Northumbrian Coast Wild Camping

Finding independent, free overnight camper spots near to Northumberland beaches were pretty hard to come by. Even though most Northumberland County Council car parks offer up to 72 hours parking, they explicitly state ‘No sleeping, cooking, or camping’.

Which is rather frustrating. But we did manage to find a few good spots, mainly through the Park4Night app . However because there are so few places, it’s easy to see how saturated places can become. For more choice, you are best moving inwards off the coast slightly.

The best spot we found for Northumbrian Coast wild camping was in Warkworth. The village there provided a specific overnight car park. There’s no facilities, but it was flat with lovely lovely views. Definitely stop by there if you’re in a self contained camper.

15 Wonderful Things To Do In Nidderdale AONB

15 fab things to do in arnside & silverdale aonb, 12 exciting things to do in amble northumberland, pin for later.

Yorkshire born & bred, Sarah is a professional blogger who loves to travel. Pushing her boundaries with new adventures is her jam, so you likely won’t find her in one place for too long. Also a serious Marmite addict. 

Here’s lots of things to do in Nidderdale AONB, whatever your age or interests, plus the best places to eat and accommodation options.

Gorgeous viewpoints, colourful seaside towns & unusual rock formations, here’s all the best things to do in Arnside & Silverdale AONB.

The lowdown on all the very best things to do in Amble, including watersports, great beer, wildlife trips, good food, shopping and beaches.

13 Things To Do in Kielder Forest Northumberland

From water to land based activities and day time to night time exploits, here’s lots of fun things to do in Kielder Forest, Northumberland.

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Castle-backed beaches, smokehouses and ruins: the Northumberland Coast has it all

With seaside trails, castles and even a pilgrimage site, this coastal stretch of North East England warrants weeks of exploration.

Windswept and wild, the coastal stretch of Northumberland has a real sense of space and isolation. Due to its strategic location close to England’s border with Scotland, the county has more than 70 castle sites, too — some ruined, some still as grand as when they were built, many overlooking the sea. Highlights include Bamburgh Castle, dating back millennia, and Alnwick Castle, which featured as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. During spring or summer, a boat trip out to the Farne Islands offers the chance to see one of the UK’s largest puffin colonies; summer or autumn is the time to see grey seals.  

The Northumberland Coast Path stretches for 62 miles from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed. It is split into six stages, and tackling anything between six and 13 miles is realistic for most people. The 10-mile Craster to Seahouses section is regularly cited as one of the country’s best walks, with the ruins of 700-year-old Dunstanburgh Castle, sandy beaches and rocky foreshore.

Where to eat  

The fishing village of Craster is famous for kippers and the smokehouses where North Sea herring is cured. L Robson & Sons has been operating for over a century, and the fourth-generation family shop remains popular. Across the road, the aptly named Jolly Fisherman is everything you could want from a pub — particularly on dark, stormy nights, when you’re greeted by a roaring fire. The menu is a cut above the average, with oysters and crab.  

England’s northernmost town, Georgian   Berwick-upon-Tweed’s position a few miles from the Scottish border means it’s changed hands between England and Scotland 13 times. Its 16th-century fortifications are some of Europe’s best preserved and are entirely walkable.There’s also the Victorian Royal Border Bridge crossing the River Tweed, plus sandstone streets with art galleries, cool cafes and independent shops.  

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne retains the sense of mystery it’s had since a monastery was built here in 635 CE. Its founder, St Aidan, is credited with bringing Christianity to north England’s pagan Saxons, making this a pilgrimage site. It’s only accessible by a causeway according to the tide; check for safe crossing times on the website.  

Where to stay

Overlooking the coast from Craster, Sea Breeze is a refurbished self-catering house with subtle nautical-themed touches and plenty of windows from which to admire the view. Sleeping six, there are three bedrooms, an upstairs sitting room, a TV lounge and a conservatory, plus a balcony and a patio.

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5 secret, pretty places to visit in Northumberland

By Rob Crossan

Not content with fighting Thuggee cults and disrupting Egyptian Nazi dig sites in the course of his long career, Dr Indiana Jones will, as of 2023, be captured prowling around the environs of an infinitely less exotic, but notably colder, landscape.

Bamburgh Castle , perched in its exposed and lofty position on the Northumberland coastline, is one of the locations used for filming the fifth in the long-running series of archaeologically-themed rum-do adventures.

So don’t be surprised if a glut of fans in fedora hats, aping the headwear of Harrison’s Ford character, descend upon the far northeast coast of England imminently. In the meanwhile, however, if you head beyond the well-known getaways of Holy Island, Hadrian’s Wall and, of course, Bamburgh itself, you’ll still be able to find a wealth of lesser-known, but equally raw and beautiful spots where knowledge of Hollywood action flicks is entirely unnecessary… at least for now.

Known to locals as ‘the gateway to the Farne Islands’, the bijou coastal town of Seahouses is often skipped by visitors keen to get to the natural wilderness of the uninhabited islands for a day trip sailing tour.

Yet sometimes the island’s animal population come to the town; most notably in the case of Freya, a juvenile female walrus who swam across to sunbathe on the rocky beach last year for a few weeks; it was only the second time a walrus has ever been spotted on a stretch of mainland English coastline.

A rustic slew of stone cottages , ginels (local slang for cobbled alleyways) and creaking, wood beamed pubs make Seahouses a perfect spot for a stroll. Head down the narrow ginel of South Street (follow your nose if you can’t find it on a map) and you’ll find the ancient warehouse that’s home to the Swallow Fish smokehouse . Here lies the very last survivor of what were once numerous smokehouses in the town; curing kippers amid an aroma of wood, sea salt and brine. You can also stock up here on homemade mackerel pates and potted shrimp.

Bed in at the Olde Ship Inn , a wonderfully atmospheric old fishing inn, now spruced up with soothing pale colour schemes and a menu rich in locally sourced seafood such as crab soup and, yes, naturally, smoked kippers.

The little town of Wooler was completely rebuilt in the 1860s after a fire razed it almost in its entirety. The stone terraced streets are given a serious uplift in spirit, however, by the views beyond of the mighty Cheviot – Northumberland’s highest point.

From the centre of Wooler, it’s a four-hour hike up and about three to get back down again so pack your sturdiest boots for a walk high in the wildness of the Anglo-Scottish border where amid paths that sometimes get rather wet and boggy (also beware of low cloud that can smother you on overcast days with little notice) you’ll pass clefts and scatterings of rock with names like Hanging Stone and Bloodybush Edge; all testament to times when this was a battle-scarred frontier.

You’ll usually have these hills almost entirely to yourself so if you need some company back in Wooler then check into the Tankerville Arms , a coaching inn dating back to the 17th century that features an open fire, black pudding bon bons, lamb shank sourced from nearby Glendale on the bar menu and seventeen light, bright and simple rooms. The owners will even dry your walking boots for you overnight.

Fifteen pounds a year plus a barrel of fish delivered each Sunday probably wasn’t such a bad salary in the 15th century, but for George Lancaster, there were drawbacks to his stipend.

Mainly, as the ‘hermit of Warkworth’, he was (seemingly through choice it should be added) confined to a chapel hewn out of the chalk cliffs in Warkworth Hermitage located downstream from the village of the same name on the banks of the River Coquet.

The hermitage was abandoned by the late 1500s, not long before the adjacent Warkworth Castle was badly damaged in the English Civil War. The substantial remains are well worth exploring, however, particularly if you make it to the keep. Here you’ll discover the story of Henry Percy, the first Earl of Northumberland. He had a son named 'Harry Hotspur,' who was mentioned by Shakespeare in Henry IV, Part I and it was young Harry’s rebellion against the King that resulted in the Percy family losing Warkworth Castle, though it was later restored to them and their descendants still own it today.

The Percy family were not to be trifled with in these parts in centuries past. As well as Warkworth, the family also owned Alnwick Castle where today you’ll find Old Master paintings, staterooms and silks inside while the outside will be instantly familiar to any fans of quidditch as the castle doubled up as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films .

There really is a street called Pottergate in the main town of Alnwick itself, a cobbled charmer of a market town with wool shops and tailors like Jobsons who provide the kind of tweedy outdoor wear you last saw on the backs of James Herriot.

In the old railway station, you’ll find Barter Books , one of the biggest second-hand bookshops in the country complete with an immense miniature train set which chugs around the top of the shelves. You can order tea and cake while you read your purchases too.

The Cookie Jar is a discreet sandstone building off the high street that looks minuscule but opens up to reveal a modishly converted boutique hotel with one room converted from what was once a convent chapel, plus funky chandeliers made from birdcages and, the rarest of things, a blue accented, sunny public living room downstairs that you’ll want to sit in whilst nibbling on tea and cake.

Rothbury and Cragside

Rothbury’s zenith as a tourist beacon came in the Victorian era when trippers would converge for walks in the nearby Simonside Hills, rich then, as they are now, with quiet burns, ridges and forests.

But the main reason to head here is to visit Cragside , an astonishingly vast Victorian testament to what you could do with your spare cash if you happened to be a leading potentate in the arena of arms manufacturing and shipbuilding.

That was the case with Sir William (later Lord) Armstrong who built a Tudor-style fantasy home that looks bewilderingly incongruous set against the atavistic Northumberland landscape. The house is so large it even contains a lift- an unheard-of luxury in the 19th-century domestic sphere. There’s a Renaissance-style marble chimneypiece, William Morris stained glass in the library and gardens lined with terraces, lakes, conifers galore and the remnants of the pump room Armstrong had built to make Cragside the first house in Britain that was lit by hydroelectric power.

More simple, but also less overwhelming slumbers can be found at Tosson Tower Farm , ten minutes drive from Cragside and Rothbury. A stylishly converted 18th-century farmhouse and barn conversion, rooms are bedecked with solid wood furniture, sunny and bright colour shades and a sleigh bed in one of the barn rooms. Breakfast (made by owner Ann Foggin) is a belt loosening affair with eggy bread, omelettes and local kippers.

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20 things to do on the Northumberland coast

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Steve Newman reveals why there is so much to enjoy on England’s most north-easterly shoreline – the Northumberland coast.

The Northumberland coast has only recently become a major part of the tourist trail, which is surprising as its beaches – stretching for miles under open skies with castles clinging on the cliff tops by their fingernails – are some of the finest anywhere in the world.

Nationally important in terms of the long stretches of sand dunes that separate the land from the sea and the incredible offshore wildlife of dolphins and hundreds of thousands of seabirds, there is so much to discover here, no matter what your age or interest.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, for example – which the sea condescendingly offers access to twice a day – is a magical place but it also offers great danger and you must be aware of the safe crossing times before you attempt to visit. You can drive across, but many people walk in the footstep of the saints and pilgrims by crossing the sands.

“It’s a magical experience, especially at sunset.” says Patrick Norris who with his Footsteps company ( footstepsnorthumberland.co.uk ) runs organised tours across the sands “However, I wouldn’t advise anyone to attempt it on their own unless they know exactly what they’re doing.”

On this coastline there are far more suitable beaches than safe ports so the traditional fishing coble evolved to operate from the shore rather than harbours. Its origins are said to lie in the Viking longboat and it’s not difficult to see why. You can still see them today at Amble, Boulmer and Craster, harvesting salmon and lobsters as they have done for centuries.

The 39 miles from Amble to Berwick-upon-Tweed is a designated Area of Outstanding National Beauty and you can walk the whole stretch by following the England Coast Path. Why not get the double decker X18 bus that follows the entire length even calling at Holy Island when the tides are right? With miles of quiet country lanes and traffic free cycle routes and bridleways you really can get away from people in such a short time.

The spectacular sea bird colonies are at their peak from early spring to mid-summer when the birds leave on their annual migration, the seal pups appear in October whilst the dolphins are here all year round. The ANOB produce an excellent website with great ideas. northumberlandcoastaonb.org

If you want to get close to the coastal wildlife then try a couple of hours with Ranger Jane’s Beach school at Seahouses ( rangerjane.co.uk ) exploring the rock pools with your net and bucket. It’s great fun for families and children of all ages from seven to 70! Plus you’re helping conservation by monitoring the species you find.

The more industrial southern coast should not be forgotten however as Newbiggin has a lovely beach, an excellent visor and wildlife centre with free parking plus one the biggest working coble fleets. It’s also famous for its modern art statue of Ebb and Flo in the middle of the bay.

All in all, the Northumberland coast is a magical place. Pick your time to go but perhaps more importantly simply take your time too. visitnorthumberland.com

For more travel inspiration, take a look at our North East hotel reviews .

THE TOP 20 THINGS TO DO 

1. The Farne Islands some two miles off the coast, often called “Europe’s Galapagos” as you get so close to the puffins, Eider ducks and thousands of other seabirds as well as the dolphins and seals are a must. Boats sail from Seahouses Harbour with sunset cruises and sailings to Holy Island also on offer.

2. Berwick Boat Trips sail from the pontoon at Berwick-upon-Tweed and up the river to The Scottish Border at the 200-year-old Chain Bridge, passing castles and monuments on the way. They also offer estuary and coastal trips out to sea spotting dolphins and seals.

3. Puffin Cruises operate boat trips out to circumnavigate the 40,000 sea bird sanctuary of Coquet Island, sailing from the dock steps at Amble harbour. Apart from Puffins, kittiwakes and guillemots the island is home to a colony of Britain’s rarest seabird the roseate tern. There is also a grey seal colony found on the island all year round.

4. Golden Gate Farne Island Boat Trips run the only boat allowed to land at the Longstone Lighthouse the outermost of the Farne Islands. They also have exclusive access to tour inside the lighthouse where you can climb to the top and visit the Victorian heroine Grace Darling’s bedroom.

EAT AND DRINK

5. The Jolly Fisherman at Craster and The Fishing Boat Inn at Boulmer are both perched directly above the sea where you can eat and soak up the sound of the waves and mewing of the gulls.

6. The Ship Inn at Low Newton brews its own beer and is situated in the preserved fishing square now owned by The National Trust. Great food but be advised the car park is 300 yards away up a steep slope.

7. For food on the hoof the Pipers Pitch in the quarry car park at Craster takes some beating. This catering van has an outstanding reputation, often resulting in long queues in the summer but it’s well worth it.

8. Robson’s at Craster and Swallow Fish in Seahouses are traditional kipper smoke houses but you can also get smoked salmon and haddock seafood and other local seafood delicacies.

9. Take the bus from Bamburgh to Seahouses and walk the three miles northwards. You’ll need strong, waterproof shoes as you cross streams and rocks on the way. It’s better to do it in this direction as you approach the looming mass of Bamburgh Castle getting ever closer.

10. Sugar Sands is a tiny haven and one of a series of delightful little coves offering nothing but the sound of the gulls and the waves lapping on the beach. Accessed from Longhouton village you need to pay an honesty fee of £1 at the farm gate.

11. Druridge Bay is a seven-mile-long beach stretching from Amble in the north to Cresswell in the south. At its centre is the Druridge Bay Coastal Park with a mass of bird hides, flooded quarries and family activities

12. The beach at Boulmer lets you get up close to the Coble, the traditional Northumbrian wooden fishing boat, whist at Alnmouth you can explore the village and grab a coffee at England’s oldest nine-hole golf course clubhouse.

BRILLIANT BERWICK

Berwick -upon-Tweed is England’s most northerly town. You can easily spend an amazing day here:

13. Take a circular walk on Europe’s finest preserved late medieval town walls with stunning views of the Tweed Estuary.

14. Explore one of Britain’s first purpose-built barracks holding three museums and part of Glasgow’s World famous Burrell Collection.

15. Take a free tour of the town’s ancient Guild Hall with its cells and old courthouse.

CASTLES IN THE AIR

16. Dunstanburgh can be reached on foot from Craster and is a flat, 1.3-mile gentle stroll along the side of the coast.

17. Lindisfarne Castle is something of a Tardis. You get the impression of a medieval fortress mixed with a warm country house.

18. Warkworth has a bonus as you can get a boat to cross the river and visit the carved cave of the Hermitage.

19. Bamburgh is the iconic castle. Dominated by its walls and 12 th century Norman keep, at times it seems more like a stately home. Stunning views from the walls.

20. Walk in the footsteps of LS Lowry and stand where he stood to paint by taking the Lowry Trail around the town. Famous for his matchstick-men paintings, the artist would holiday frequently in Berwick and as a result he produced more than 36 paintings here.

Feeling inspired to make a trip of it? Take a look at our Northumberland hotel reviews .

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10 things to do on the Northumberland coast

The spectacular Northumberland coastline is an area that’s so lovely it has been deemed an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’ll find wide swathes of sandy beaches, nature reserves that are home to a variety of birds and wildlife, pretty seaside villages with traditional tearooms and a smattering of historic castles. It’s the perfect setting for a short break or holiday and there’s lots to do whether you choose to travel with family, your other half or with a four-legged friend in tow. Read on to discover our favourite ten things to do on the Northumberland coast or click the button below to browse our  collection of coastal cottages .

• Go for beach walks
• Water sports
• Dramatic castles
• Farne Islands
• Enjoy seafood
• Pretty villages
• Real-life Hogwarts
• Walk a coastal path
• Tea at Howick Hall

1. Go for walkies on the beach with the dog

The Northumberland coastline is one of the most dog-friendly places around and four-legged friends are welcome at nearly all of the region’s beaches. Here are some of our favourite Northumberland beaches which are dog-friendly all year round:

Embleton Beach

This wide sandy beach at Embleton is framed by the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. It’s a clean, peaceful bay that’s a safe choice for families and perfect for doggies who like to dip their paws in the sea.

Alnmouth Beach

Alnmouth has a lovely curved beach that can be a real suntrap in the summer months. It’s a popular choice with dog walkers so your canine companion can make some new furry friends and there is lots of choice for refreshments with an assortment of tea rooms, cafes and pubs all nearby. 

More dog-friendly beaches in Northumberland:

• Cresswell Beach, Cresswell
• Amble Links Beach, Amble
• Blyth South Beach, Blyth

For more ways to keep doggies happy during your visit take a look at our dog-friendly guide to Northumberland , or our guide to the best beaches in Northumberland . 

2. Try some watersports

The beaches and bays of the Northumberland coast make a great choice for a range of water sports including windsurfing, paddleboarding and kitesurfing.

Surfing and paddleboarding: Northside Surf School teaches surfing and stand-up paddleboarding at a variety of beaches along the coast while KA Adventure Sports offers kitesurfing at Beadnell Bay, Bamburgh and Budle Bay.

Sailing: Beadnell is a top choice for sailing (it has its own sailing club) and is the only point along the Northumberland coast that’s suitable for jet-skis.

Sea kayaking: There are a variety of access points on the coast including Craster, Alnmouth and Amble though it should only be attempted by experienced kayakers. Beginners can take lessons on the gentler Coquet Estuary from the Coquet Shorebase Trust.

Snorkelling and diving: This can be done around the Farne Islands with specialist boat trips available.

3. Explore a dramatic castle

Northumberland is filled with castles - in fact, it has more than any other county in England! There are romantic ruins, imposing fortresses and fully restored medieval forts. Many of Northumberland’s castles are located near the coast so it’s well worth seeking them out during your visit. 

Dunstanburgh Castle

The large ruins sit imposingly on the stretch of Northumberland coastline between Embleton and Craster. The scenic walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle is one of the most popular Northumberland routes to try and you can explore the ruins of this twin-towered keep that was a key battlement in the War of the Roses. The extensive grounds are great for games and there is a playground to keep younger family members happy.

Admission: Adult price is £5.70 or free to English Heritage or National Trust members.  

Dog-friendly: Yes, dogs on leads are permitted at Dunstanburgh Castle.

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country and there’s lots to see and do inside its majestic stone walls. Once the royal seat of the Kings of Northumbria, the castle looks out over miles of beautiful beaches and has plenty of stories to tell.

Delve into the castle’s history in the fascinating on-site museum and discover thousands of precious artefacts within 14 restored rooms. A large square keep dates back to the 12th century and is the oldest surviving part of Bamburgh Castle. Today, it houses an armoury full of weapons from past battles.

Admission: Adult price is £11.25 and family admission is £28.

Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed in the grounds of Bamburgh Castle.    

Warkworth Castle and Hermitage

Located in the pretty village of Warkworth, this impressive castle was once home to the Percy family and is famous for its spectacular cross-shaped keep which is great for going exploring.

There are often activities taking place in the grounds of Warkworth Castle including medieval reenactments and children’s storytelling.

After looking around the castle (including the beautifully restored Duke’s Rooms) you can take a boat trip across the River Coquet to the Hermitage, a peaceful building that was once a private chapel for the Earl of Northumberland. 

Admission: Adult price is £7.20 or free to English Heritage members.

Dog-friendly: Dogs on leads are welcome at Warkworth Castle

Tynemouth Castle and Priory

The large Tynemouth Priory and Castle looks out over the North Sea from its location on the headland. The site includes an interactive exhibition that charts the history of Tynemouth and a restored gun battery that was built to defend the Tyne in both World Wars.

Admission: Adult price is £6.30 or free to English Heritage members.

Dog-friendly: Dogs on leads are permitted in the grounds of Tynemouth Castle.

Discover more mighty fortresses with our guide to Northumberland castles.

4. Take a trip to the Farne Islands

No visit to the Northumbrian coast is complete without taking a boat trip to the beautiful Farne Islands. The islands are located off the coast of Seahouses and are home to puffins, seals and seabirds at various times of the year.

Landings can be made on several of the Farne Islands including Inner Farne which is a haven for nesting seabirds, and Longstone Island which is home to Grace Darling’s famous lighthouse.

There are a choice of regular boat trips to the Farne Island from the harbour at Seahouses and most of them are dog-friendly (although dogs won’t be allowed on the islands because of nesting birds).

Find out more about visiting the Farne Islands .

5. Enjoy fresh Northumberland seafood

Many of the towns and villages on the Northumberland coast have traditional fishing harbours so you can pick up some deliciously fresh seafood - whether you want to cook it yourself at a Northumberland holiday cottage or have it expertly prepared for you at a local restaurant.

Take it home

• The Northumberland Seafood Centre , Amble (NE65 0FD) : pick up a catch of the day for your supper with crabs, lobsters and oysters amongst the delicacies on offer. 
• L Robson & Sons , Craster ( NE66 3TR): enjoy a traditional ‘Craster Kipper’ - they have been smoking the famous fish here for more than 130 years.
• Swallow Fish , Seahouses (NE68 7RB):  smoked fish, shellfish and fresh fish are all on offer here.

Dine out 

• Riley’s Fish Shack , Tynemouth (NE30 4BY): a portable bar and grill that’s located on the beach, renowned for beautifully cooked seafood. Michel Roux recently named Riley’s Fish Shack as his favourite seafood restaurant!
• The Potted Lobster , Bamburgh (NE69 7BS): serves traditional Lindisfarne oysters and lobster in a variety of ways.
• Sea & Soil, Amble (NE65 0DQ): a bistro-style restaurant with regularly changing specials like braised octopus and kimchi cod on the menu.
• Harbour View , Seaton Sluice (NE26 4DR): known for its large (and very tasty) portions of fish and chips - you can choose to eat in or takeaway. 

6. Call in at some pretty coastal towns and villages

The Northumberland coast is filled with pretty towns and villages where you can browse independent shops, enjoy a stroll along the beach, then stop for a cuppa (or a pint if you prefer). Play at penny arcades and tuck into fish and chips at traditional Northumberland seaside towns or watch the colourful sailing boats come and go at picturesque fishing villages clustered around sandy coves. Here are a few of our favourite Northumberland coastal towns:

Alnmouth is well known for its painted coastal cottages that add a cheerful vibe to this pretty Northumberland village. It’s also home to the tiny Ferryman’s Hut which is a bite-sized museum with a great selection of old photos.

Bamburgh is one of the most popular spots on the Northumbrian coast - the town is set against a backdrop of white sandy beaches and framed by the beautiful Bamburgh Castle. There’s also an array of cafes and restaurants to visit and green spaces where you can sit with a picnic and watch the world go by. 

Warkworth is a historic Northumberland village with a quaint main street that’s filled with artisan shops, traditional tea rooms and village pubs. You can take a circular stroll along the River Coquet which loops around Warkworth, pay a visit to the village’s medieval castle then get rowed across the river to Warkworth’s ancient Hermitage. 

Seahouses is an idyllic village with a colourful fishing harbour where you can observe local marine life including dolphins. You can also hop aboard a boat trip from here to the Farne Islands , home to puffins, a colony of seals and spectacular scenery.

Embleton is the perfect place to relax and unwind on a Northumberland holiday with a golden sandy beach which seemingly stretches for miles – its shallow waters are perfect for children to paddle. This charming village also boats extraordinary views of Dunstanburgh Castle and is a great place to sample some tasty local kippers!

7. Spot wildlife at a coastal nature reserve

Northumberland is a fabulous place to spot nature. The Farne Islands and Coquet Island are both well-known as the home to thousands of seabirds but there are also coastal nature reserves that you don’t have to reach by boat.

Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre is next to the beach at Druridge Bay and up to 140 species of birds can be spotted here each year. The wildlife haven includes walking trails, nature-rich ponds and hides to observe the birdlife. Children will have fun completing a rubbing disc trail and there’s a play area to keep them happy too.

The nearby Druridge Pools is an area of wetland that attracts wading birds, wildfowl and birds of prey - particularly in the winter months. The pools and deep lake here are also a great place to spot otters.

Lindisfarne is just off the coast of Berwick-upon-Tweed and can be reached via a tidal causeway. The sand dunes, saltmarsh and mudflats at Lindisfarne are home to a large nature reserve which attracts an array of wildlife including birds, geese and wildfowl. 

5 creatures to spot on Northumberland’s coast:

• Dolphins – bottlenose dolphins, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises can be spotted around Dunstanburgh Castle, Cullernose Point and Emmanuel Head on Holy Island
• Grey seals – often seen in Seahouses harbour or basking on the rocks of offshore islands
• Minke whales  – best spotted around the Northumberland coast when the sea is calm
• Puffins – around 37,000 pairs can be glimpsed on the Farne Islands
• Long Nanny terns – during the summer these can be observed nesting at Beadnell Bay

Our guide to the Farne Islands highlights some of the wildlife you might encounter during your visit. 

8. Pay a visit to the real-life Hogwarts

Alnwick Castle is around 5 miles from Alnmouth beach and a visit is a must for Harry Potter fans - the castle was featured as Hogwarts in both the Philosopher’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets films. Recognisable filming locations include the Outer Bailey where Harry first learned to fly a broomstick and the Lion Arch which led towards Hagrid’s cabin and the Forbidden Forest.

Highlights for the kids: You can follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps and take a flying lesson in the grounds of Alnwick Castle (or Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as you may prefer to call it).   

Location:  Alnwick

Opening times:  Open seasonally 10am – 5.30pm

Prices:  Start from adult £18.50, concession £15, child (5-16yrs) £9.75, family £50.50, children under 4 free

Explore our guide to Alnwick Castle for more information or check out our holiday cottages in and around Alnwick to stay nearby. 

9. Take a walk along the Northumberland Coast Path

The Northumberland Coast Path stretches all the way from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north and covers sandy beaches, rocky headlands and secluded coves. It’s 62 miles in total but you can walk as much or as little of it as you want with popular sections including Warkworth to Alnmouth and Craster to Embleton Bay. 

The trail is well signposted with blue waymarks along the way - if you do decide to walk the whole of the Northumberland coastal path it’s recommended to split into six stages and tackle one per day.  

There are a couple of good circular Northumberland coast walks to and from Craster that include sections on the Northumberland Coast Path - one that takes in Howick Hall and one that takes in Dunstanburgh Castle.

Find out more about the Northumberland Coast Path .

10. Drink an Earl Grey tea at Howick Hall

Howick Hall is a Northumberland stately home by the coast which features beautiful gardens, woodland walks and an arboretum which covers 65 acres with 11,000 trees. Howick Hall is the ancestral home of the Earl Grey and the famous tea is named after the 2nd Earl - Charles Grey who was a British Prime Minister in the 1830s. 

Earl Grey tea was specially blended for Charles and you can enjoy a cup at The Earl Grey Tea House at Howick Hall. 

For more lovely places to enjoy some tea and cake, have a read of our guide to the top 5 afternoon tea spots in Northumberland.

Plan your getaway to the Northumberland Coast

If this has whetted your appetite for a short break to the Northumberland Coast we have a range of holiday cottages available in locations like Alnwick, Bamburgh, Beadnell, Craster and Seahouses.

For even more Northumberland Coast places to visit, take a look at our guide to the best beaches in Northumberland and start planning your perfect coastal getaway.

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.

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Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Northumberland Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful English county. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Northumberland!

Let’s plan your trip to Northumberland

With more castles than any other county in England, a stunning coastline lined with sandy beaches, pretty towns and villages, a tidal island with a rich cultural history and heritage, the remains of a Roman wall which marked the northernmost boundary of the Holy Roman Empire and a national park which boasts of the cleanest air, cleanest rivers and the darkest skies in England Northumberland in the North East really is the county with it all!

What you will find in this complete Northumberland Travel Guide

Northumberland Travel Guide – Map

Attractions and things to do in northumberland, accommodation in northumberland, when is the best time of year to visit northumberland, what do i need to know to plan the best trip to northumberland, how to get to northumberland, best tours to northumberland, books to read about northumberland, uk travel guides.

10 PRETTY TOWNS TO VISIT IN NORTHUMBERLAND

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO & SEE IN THE NORTH EAST OF ENGLAND

GUIDE TO DRIVING THE NORTHUMBERLAND COASTAL ROUTE

GUIDE TO VISITING THE HOLY ISLAND OF LINDISFARNE

THINGS TO DO IN ALNWICK

GUIDE TO THE BEST CASTLES IN NORTHUMBERLAND

BEST PLACES TO STAY

IN NORTHUMBERLAND

BEST COASTAL COTTAGES IN NORTHUMBERLAND

You can find more accommodation options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

FAQs – Planning your visit to Northumberland

The weather in Northumberland can be unpredictable in every season. It can be cold and windy all year around so it is essential to pack accordingly.

Whilst the summer months can be hot there is always the possibility of a sea fret (a cool mist that covers the coast) and temperatures will drop considerably.

• Carry change for car parking! Prepare to arrive early in the day to secure parking at popular spots (or you may find you have to park some distance away)
• Check for low tide if you are planning to visit Holy Island.
• If you are visiting in summer prepare to enjoy the longer daylight hours (sunset can be as late as 9:50 in the evening!) Longer days means you can fit more into your itinerary!
• Enjoy some traditional food and drink including Craster kippers, Earl Grey tea, Newcastle Brown Ale, ham and pease pudding stotties and pan haggerty.
• Locals are called Geordie and have a very distinct accent.

Option 1 – By car/train/coach from London

Northumberland is England’s northernmost county. It is approximately 470 kms from London and takes around 5 hours by car (I would recommend stops in a number of other destinations on the way though!)

Tip – If you are planning a road trip around the UK the Northumberland Coastal Route is a beautiful drive and very popular especially during the summer months.

The train journey from London ( King’s Cross ) to Newcastle takes around 3 hours and is a lovely trip (stop off in York on the way)

Click here for timetables and prices of train tickets from London to Newcastle .

National Express Coaches travel regularly every day from Victoria Coach Station to Newcastle. This will be the cheapest but also the slowest option.

Option 2 – By car/train/coach from Edinburgh

Driving from Edinburgh to the Northumberland coast only takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, take the train from Edinburgh to Newcastle (around 2 hours) and pick up a hire car to explore Northumberland.

There are also day tours available from Edinburgh (see below for recommendations) which visit a number of top sights and attractions in Northumberland.

Click here for timetables and prices of train tickets from Edinburgh to Newcastle.

Option 3 – Fly into Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is the nearest international airport for visitors to Northumberland. Pick up a hire car at the airport if you plan to explore Northumberland as it is the best way to get around the county.

Read – How to get around the UK (a complete guide to transportation)

If you prefer to take a day tour to the North East of England there are trips available from Edinburgh

• Hadrian’s Wall & Roman Britain 1-Day Tour – Discover the highlights of Roman Britain and Hadrian’s Wall on this small group tour from Edinburgh.
• Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria – Take a scenic, coastal route into the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria. This tour includes a visit to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne which once the most important centre of religious learning in the British Isles and the medieval market town of Alnwick.
• Alnwick Castle & Scottish Borders Day Tour – Cross the Scottish border into England and admire the beautiful scenery of the Borders and explore magnificent Alnwick Castle and its gardens.

Read more – Best books about (or set in) Northumberland

Find more practical tips, resources and inspiration for your UK travel adventures in my UK Travel Guides.

• Durham Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• York Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Bath Travel Guide
• Cornwall Travel Guide
• Dorset & the Jurassic Coast Travel Guide
• The 9 Regions of England (An essential guide for itinerary planning)
• Best UK Staycations (Top Destinations for 2021 & beyond)
• 12 Best Day trips from London by train (+logistics, tips & maps)
• 12 pretty towns and villages in England (+ map & travel tips)

Feeling overwhelmed with the planning process? My step-by-step planning guide is the place to start!

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

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Northumberland Coast

Northumberland's coast, like its wild and remote interior, is sparsely populated. You won't find any hurdy-gurdy seaside resorts, but instead charming, castle-crowned villages strung along miles of wide, sandy beaches that you might just have to yourself.

Best Things to Do

Leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Northumberland Coast. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Alnwick Castle

Set in parklands designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, the imposing ancestral home of the Duke of Northumberland has changed little since the 14th…

Berwick Walls

You can walk almost the entire length of Berwick's hefty Elizabethan walls, begun in 1558 to reinforce an earlier set built during the reign of Edward II…

Bamburgh Castle

Northumberland's most dramatic castle was built around a powerful 11th-century Norman keep by Henry II. The castle played a key role in the border wars of…

Farne Islands

During breeding season (roughly May to July), you can see feeding chicks of 20 seabird species (including puffin, kittiwake, Arctic tern, eider duck,…

Alnwick Garden

This 4.8-hectare walled garden incorporates a series of magnificent green spaces surrounding the breathtaking Grand Cascade – 120 separate jets spurting…

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

Born in Bamburgh, Grace Darling was the lighthouse keeper's daughter on Outer Farne who rowed out to the grounded, flailing SS Forfarshire in 1838 and…

Dunstanburgh Castle

The dramatic 1.5-mile walk along the coast from Craster (not accessible by car) is the most scenic path to this moody, weather-beaten castle. Its…

Old Lifeboat House

From the 1820s to the 1960s, Holy Island was a launching point for hundreds of dramatic lifeboat rescues. The island's last remaining lifeboat station is…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 top things to do in northumberland, from beaches to hadrian's wall.

Set around a village green, this idyllic pub brews over two dozen different beers – blond, wheat, rye, bitter, stout and seasonal – using local River…

Potted Lobster

Bamburgh lobster – served as a creamy egg and brandy thermidor stuffed in the shell; grilled with garlic and parsley butter; or poached and served cold…

Surrounded by Alnwick Garden's treetops (but not perched up within them as its name would imply), this timber-lined restaurant serves contemporary fare:…

Jolly Fisherman

Crab (in soup, sandwiches, fish platters and more) is the speciality of this gastropub, but it also has a variety of fish dishes, as well as a house…

Billy Shiel

Billy Shiel operates tours to the Farne Islands from April to October, and also offers half-day fishing trips (adult/child £20/10) in August and September…

Lindisfarne Priory

The skeletal, red and grey ruins of the priory are an eerie sight and give a glimpse into the isolated life of the Lindisfarne monks. The later 13th…

Robson & Sons

Four generations have operated this traditional fish smokers; loyal customers include the Royal Family. It's best known for its kippers, but also smokes…

Lindisfarne Castle

Built atop a rocky bluff in 1550, this tiny, storybook castle was extended and converted by Sir Edwin Lutyens from 1902 to 1910 for Mr Edward Hudson, the…

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Remote and rugged Northumberland has an off-the-radar feel, but there's plenty to see and do. Here are our top picks, from castles to Hadrian's Wall.

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Places to visit in Northumberland

Historical sites to take you back through time, vast landscapes to explore, and wildlife to make you go ‘aw’. That’s Northumberland. Countless Northumberland castles jostle for attention - ‘proper’ castles with battlements and portcullises, ghostly ruins guarding endless sandy beaches, and ones that echo with ancient footsteps. There is a plethora of things to do in Northumberland for history fans, hikers, mountain bikers and romantics alike, from ambling along the Northumberland coast to glamping and camping in the county’s endless countryside, but one of the best places to visit in Northumberland of all is the Farne Islands, where dozens of puffins await to melt your hearts. At night, turn your gaze upwards to see millions of stars pinpricking the famed dark skies in Northumberland’s National Park.

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Gold winner: Kidlandlee Holiday Cottages

Go off-grid with a luxury self-catering break in Northumberland National Park – winner of the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year Award 2023.

Gold winner: Grey Seal and Seabird Cruise, Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours

Winner of the Experience of the Year Award 2023, jump aboard a boat tour to spot wildlife around the unspoilt Farne Islands.

7 things to do on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Uncover mystical history at Lindisfarne Castle or spot seals on the secluded North Shore Walk during a trip to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Explore captivating Alnwick Castle

Walk through history and admire world-class art at this fascinating castle, then stroll through spectacular floral displays at The Alnwick Garden.

Location: Alnwick, Northumberland

Star gazing like a Roman at Cawfields Roman Wall

Built in AD122, Hadrian’s Wall was once the largest frontier in the Roman Empire and remained that way for 300 years.

Location: Haltwhistle, Northumberland

Lose yourself in the Allen Valleys

Strap on your walking boots and explore a countryside full of contrasts. Prepare to be blown away by this picturesque part of the North Pennines.

Location: Allendale, Northumberland

Enjoy dog friendly days out at Belsay Hall

Explore the magnificent gardens of this dog friendly attraction with your four legged friend.

Location: Belsay, Northumberland

Stay in a cottage built by an amazing Victorian inventor

Experience Cragside in Northumberland as many have never seen it before – by staying in the spectacular and dramatic grounds of the Cragside Estate.

Location: Rothbury, Northumberland

Sip Earl Grey where it was created: Howick Hall

Earl Grey tea is enjoyed – usually at around 4pm – all over the world, but few know it was invented in Northumberland for Charles, 2nd Earl Grey.

Location: Howick, Northumberland

Discover a seaside shopping paradise

Amble is a shopper's paradise, a haven for lovers of local produce, crafts and gifts. Perfect for presents, but don’t forget to treat yourself!

Location: Amble, Northumberland

Get kippered in Craster

Craster is the acclaimed home of the kipper – a breakfast favourite of the Queen. But there’s more to Craster than fishy tales.

Location: Craster, Northumberland

Discover Howick’s heavenly history

With a famous cup of tea, a stunning garden and its very own bathing house, the haven of Howick Hall is one of Northumberland’s true hidden gems.

Birds, boats, batter and beer at Seahouses

Visit the 1843 original Fisherman’s kitchen, sup a pint of Farne Island Ale in a beer garden or indulge in Robson Green’s favourite ice cream.

Location: Seahouses, Northumberland

Build sandcastles at Bamburgh Beach

Do you know your cockles from your winkles? St. Aidan and Grace Darling certainly did. And what better place to learn than on Bamburgh Beach.

Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland

Admire the picturesque views from Housesteads Roman Fort

Housesteads is the most iconic of all the Wall sites and the views and Roman remains are spectacular.

Location: Housesteads, Northumberland

Walk the Wall at Steel Rigg

Take a walk around Steel Rigg and Crag Lough to see how the Romans used the natural landscape to maximise the strength of the Empire's frontier.

Location: Steel Rigg, Northumberland

Dig for buried treasure at Roman Vindolanda

See live archaeological excavations before your eyes at the ancient fort of Vindolanda.

Location: Vindolanda, Northumberland

Discover a secluded fortified manor house at Aydon Castle

Over 900 years old and pretty much unaltered since then, Aydon Castle sits proudly upon its crag; a true survivor of some rough times and visitors.

Location: Corbridge, Northumberland

Dine like Lords and Ladies at Langley Castle

For those with a taste for the finer things in life, Langley Castle Hotel near the historic market town of Hexham is the ideal gastro getaway.

Location: Langley-on-Tyne, Northumberland

Enjoy a guilt-free weekend away with serious green credentials

Going green can be romantic... so spoil your other half with a romantic weekend break at Battlesteads, ‘Northumberland’s greenest hotel’.

Location: Wark, Northumberland

Walk through sand dunes to Bamburgh Castle

This seat of the former Kings of Northumbria tells a spellbinding tale from its awe-inspiring position on the edge of Northumberland’s coast.

Camp next to Hadrian's Wall

This isn't just any wall, this is an impressive piece of roman architecture.

Location: Melkridge, Cumbria

Go seal and puffin spotting on the Farne Islands

Visit Farne Islands to see thousands of seabirds and a huge Grey seal colony.

Location: Farne Islands, Northumberland

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Northumberland

NORTHUMBERLAND, A LAND OF MYTHS AND LEGENDS

Unearth historical myths and local legends as you tour northumberland’s stunning natural landscapes and built heritage..

Known for its rich traditions and the distinctive character of its people, Northumberland is the northernmost county of England and stretches over almost 2,000 square miles of breathtaking countryside, award-winning coastlines, rolling hills and charming market towns.

Where to Stay

Food & drink, landmarks & attractions, things to do.

Follow in Roman footsteps along Emperor Hadrian’s mighty frontier and relive their story as you chart the world-famous Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site from coast to coast across the county.

Delve into a turbulent past in one of the area’s many enchanted castles, or catch the tides and head over the causeway out to The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the cradle of Christianity in England.

For the ultimate get-away-from-it-all experience, discover the dark skies of the Northumberland National Park and stay in the Sky Den, your own personal stargazing lodge in the Kielder Water and Forest Park.

Discover a land rich in magical and mystical tales – visit  Northumberland .

Magical Light Trails in North East England 

7 ways to explore the outdoors in North East England

Alfresco Summer Nights in the North East

Other places to go, south shields, tees valley, tynemouth & whitley bay.

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Best places to visit in Northumberland: top attractions, and places to stay, eat and drink

Here’s our low down of the best places to visit in Northumberland so you can start planning your visit to this historic region in Northern England, known to many as ‘castle country’

The northernmost county in England, Northumberland is a land of big, starry skies, castles, plus plenty of cosy boltholes within whose historic walls you can sit out the changeable weather. Here’s our guide to the very best places to visit in Northumberland.

See the Feb/March 2023 issue of Discover Britain for our 38-page Northumberland travel special or read on for even more ideas for getting the most out of the region.

The best places to visit in Northumberland

A region that bears the marks of its former settlers and inhabitants more than most, in Northumberland you can walk amid Roman ruins, discover Anglo-Saxon strongholds, learn about the trail of destruction left by Viking invaders, and visit the cradle of English Christianity on the ‘Holy Isle’ of Lindisfarne.

Hadrian’s Wall

Top of our list for the best places to visit in Northumberland, and stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, this once formidable barrier was built to protect the northwest frontier of the Roman Empire. Now looked after by English Heritage, today, though much of it is in ruin, there are still 20 sites along its length where you can learn about what life was once like for the soldiers tasked with guarding it in the dramatic and often unforgiving landscape.

The Elizabethan Walls, Berwick-upon-Tweed 

One of the best examples of a walled town in all of Europe, Berwick’s mile-and-a-quarter of Elizabethan-era walls still stand proud hundreds of years later, despite Berwick-upon-Tweed being the most contested town in Britain, having switched hands between the English and the Scottish no fewer than 14 times.

Vindolanda Roman Fort, Hexham

Vindolanda was the first Roman frontier in the north and it actually pre-dates Hadrian’s Wall, which lies just north of it. Occupied for over 300 years it was both an important fort and village for soldiers and their families. The Vindolanda site today is one of the best places to visit in Northumberland, with a spectacular world-class Roman museum to explore the story of the people who lived there and see the hundreds of artefacts found at the site, as well as a chance to look around the ‘live’ archaeological site itself.

Ad Gefrin, Wooler 

When it opens in spring 2023, this world-class heritage attraction which somehow plans to fuse Anglo-Saxon history with modern-day whisky distilling, will draw visitors back to when this part of Northumberland was once one of the major seats of power for the Anglo-Saxons. This is set to be one of the best places to visit in Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick 

In recent years it may be best known for training wizards how to use their broomsticks, or for starring in Downton Abbey specials, but Alnwick’s esteemed more than 950 years of history, which has been linked to the Percy family for much of it, has many far more interesting stories and artefacts within its resplendent walls.

In our new issue Jeremy Flint went to the castle to interview the Duke of Northumberland and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the castle. Read the interview here.   

The Alnwick Garden

Created as a separate attraction to the castle by the present Duchess of Northumberland, who began the project in 1997 Alnwick Garden is the third most visited public garden in the UK, covering over 26 acres. With over 4,000 varieties of plants to discover, including a few deadly and dangerous ones in the Poison Garden, this is a delight for all the senses.

Dunstanburgh Castle

Standing on a remote headland along the Northumberland coast, this castle, first build in the early 14 th century, would once have been a grand palace, designed to irk King Edward II by one of his openly hostile barons. Today, it stands in romantic ruin after being besieged twice during the War of the Roses and a walk along the craggy coastal path to the village of Craster can be rewarded with some of the famous local kippers.

Lindisfarne Castle & Abbey 

If you’ve made it all the way to this northern region then there’s really no excuse for not taking the causeway over to the ‘Holy Isle’ of Lindisfarne , one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northumberland and where the famous Gospels were first illustrated at the now ruinous abbey. Another highlight of a visit is Lindisfarne Castle – as close as perfect an Edwardian-style home as you could ever hope to find.

Kielder Observatory, Kielder

Located in Europe’s largest gold-tier protected dark sky park, Kielder Observatory is nestled in the Kielder Water and Forest Park and offers some of the world’s most breathtaking star-gazing. Famed for the ‘Kielder Moment’, the moment that visitors look up at the glittering skies and realise that they’re completely connected to this vast cosmos, this is a must-do on our list of places to visit in Northumberland.

Wild Intrigue, sites across Northumberland

Reconnect with nature again with one of Wild Intrigue’s wildlife experiences and events across Northumberland. Whether its a Dawn Chorus Disco in Newcastle, mixing nature’s dawn orchestra with a silent disco tech, a Bats and Beers night searching for some of Northumberland’s nocturnal wildlife, while enjoying some locally brewed beers, or a Moths and Muffins morning enjoying a delicious breakfast whilst meeting some magical moth species, there is really something for everyone.

Best places to stay in Northumberland

The Coach House, Stay on the Hill 

Set amid the beautiful Northumberland Tyne Valley close to Northumberland National Park, this wing of a Victorian house on a family-owned estate, near Hexham, offers four luxury bedrooms each with a super comfy bed fitted with Egyptian cotton sheets and its own bathroom, which can be hired as a holiday home or as individual rooms. As well as original period features, each room comes with a Freeview TV with DVD player and wifi, and there’s a pretty patio for making the most of the tranquil atmosphere of the estate.

Beach & Quiet holiday cottages, Craster

A stone’s throw from the pretty fishing village of Craster and the spectacular Dunstanburgh Castle, these self-catering holiday cottages are the perfect base for your Northumberland holiday.  Historic Dunstan House, which sleeps up to 18, is Grade II* listed and is bursting with incredible period features, and newly built elegant Hemmel house, which sleeps 6, perfectly combines modern stylings with traditional features. Sleeping four, cosy Stable Cottage is situated in the grounds of Dunstanburgh Castle and, as the old castle stables, and also Grade II listed, is brimming with historic charm.

The Clock Tower, Bamburgh Estate 

Bamburgh Castle is one of the most recognisable landmarks along the region’s coastline and one of the best places to visit in Northumberland. Now you can book a stay in its medieval bell tower, which offers views of Bamburgh beach and the isle of Lindisfarne. Accommodation within the tower’s 1,400-year-old walls is suitably characterful, with velvet sofas, exposed stone walls and antique furnishings complemented by William Morris & Co fabrics and modern artworks. It’s delightfully eclectic and the three-bed holiday home can be booked through the wonderful Crabtree & Crabtree. Best of all? Guests get free entry to the castle’s state rooms, plus access to the castle grounds.

Twice Brewed Inn, Hexham

A post-walk beer-tasting at the Twice Brewed Brewhouse can be followed by a classic home-cooked meal in the comfortable restaurant and new conservatory of the Twice Brewed Inn . There are also some comfortable rooms for overnight stays, with the stargazing, supper and slumber package offering a two-course meal and a stargazing adventure, where you can learn from the experts in the Northumberland Dark Sky Park and use the latest telescopes to watch the night sky from the observatory (available from October to March).

The Walls, Berwick-upon-Tweed

This B&B is set within a gorgeously restored period townhouse perched don the Edwardian Walls quarter of the town. Ask for the Tweed room with views of the river from its Georgian windows and put your faith in Stephen and Louise Scott, who will make you feel right at home.

The Holly Bush Inn, Greenhaugh, Near Kielder

Located within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, this inn, or ‘proper pub’ offers comfortable en-suite rooms, a roaring fire, good grub, and the chance to catch a glimpse of the Milky War, or perhaps even another galaxy.

Eshott Hall, Morpeth 

For something a little grander, try this country house hotel on the outskirts of a quiet rural village. With rolling lawns and woodland that beckons you in (look out for red squirrels), this 17 th -century home has been painstakingly restored by its current owners, Robert & Gina Parker. There are 11 en-suite rooms, while the Drawing Room and Library are perfect for afternoon tea, or a post-amble tipple and the on-site restaurant serves up superb seasonal produce.

The Cookie Jar, Alnwick 

Very well placed for visitors to Alnwick Castle , this boutique hotel is set within a historic building but comes with decidedly modern amenities – think drench showers in all the rooms, Hypnos beds, and Penhaligon’s toiletries. The Bistro is a great spot for dinner after a day’s exploring, and there’s even a firepit on the outdoor terrace for those who wish to enjoy their surroundings (and the night sky) a little longer.

Barrasford Arms, Hexham

Dating back to the 19th century in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country, this charming pub with rooms overlooks the spectacular Houghton Castle and is perfectly located for exploring the area. With cosy, comfortable rooms and award-winning food made using ingredient’s from the hotel’s own kitchen garden, this is a home away from home for your stay.

Crabtree & Crabtree Holiday Lettings, across Northumberland

The undisputed leader in holiday home rentals in Northumberland, Crabtree and Crabtree boast a portfolio of stunning properties across the county. All stylish, self-catered and in stunning, hand-picked locations, the properties range from grand country houses, to sleek barn conversions and old stone cottages. Many properties are dog-friendly too and some even offer at-home beauty and spa treatments and professional catering.

The best places to eat in Northumberland

Hjem, Hexham

In the village of Wall, close to Hadrian’s Wall, Hjem is probably Northumberland’s finest restaurant – it’s certainly it’s most unexpected. Run by a Swedish-English husband-and-wife team, Hjem has been awarded a Michelin star for its ‘high-quality’ Nordic-English cooking and its placement within a charming English inn (which also has rooms), only adds to the wonderful experience.

The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

If there’s one thing the coastal village of Craster is known for, it’s kippers, so it would be remiss to visit the region and not come and sample them. This stone-walled Victorian inn has been a popular place with fisherman for more than a century and a half, so if you want to try Craster kippers, or indeed any other local seafood delicacies, like Lindisfarne oysters, then you couldn’t be in better company, with it all being freshly hauled in from the North Sea each morning.

The Old Boathouse, Amble

If you’re looking for a place that serves seafood platters that will make your mouth water and have the next table ordering what you’re having, then this is it – their platter includes a whole lobster alongside seabream, oysters, you name it. It’s won awards, lots of them so it pays to book ahead. If you can’t get a table, try the Fish Shack nearby.

The Queen’s Head, Berwick

At this atmospheric pub, you dine beneath exposed timber beams, but it’s about more than the warm setting here – the pub takes its food seriously, with all produce coming from local suppliers, and dishes such as pan-fried salmon or seafood stew are better than the fare you find in most pubs.

The Bosk Restaurant, Alnwick

Stunnning architecture, big cosy chairs, handmade chandeliers and rustic, elegant interiors welcome you into this friendly, stylish restaurant in the Beamish valley. Serving up delicious food, including homebaked pizzas, fresh coffee and an excellent selection of wines and beers is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the beautiful Northumberland countryside.

The best places to visit in Northumberland: a tour of castle country

New issue: issue 232 of Discover Britain is out now!

Alnwick Castle: an inside tour with the Duke of Northumberland

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 12 Best Places to Visit in Northumberland

12 Best Places to Visit in Northumberland

If you really want to escape the crowds in England, Northumberland is the place to run to. Fewer people live in Northumberland than in many London Boroughs, and yet it’s the sixth-largest county by area. With no cities, Northumbrians live in fishing ports, distinguished market towns and far-flung hamlets in the deep valleys of the Northumberland National Park.

Castles are almost ten-a-penny here, and a lingering reminder that battles and sieges were a part of life in this region for hundreds of years. Some like Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle are family-friendly days out with quirky re-enactors, while many others are spectral ruins that complement the untamed countryside perfectly.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Northumberland :

A market town full of poise, Alnwick has terraces of limestone flat-fronted townhouses with second-hand bookshops, coffee shops and pubs.

The big sight is the town’s castle, which is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK, after Windsor.

You’re free to poke around in the summer, and there’s extra incentive for Harry Potter fans as the property was Hogwarts in the movies.

You’ll also be spellbound by The Alnwick Garden, landscaped hedges and flowerbeds around a water cascade.

To arouse morbid curiosity there’s a Poison Garden growing hemlock, foxglove and the plants to make ricin and strychnine.

Also, make excursions to the castles at Chillingham, Edlingham and Dunstanburgh and to experience the awesome beachscapes at Low Newton and Embleton Bay.

2. Berwick-upon-Tweed

England’s northernmost town is a couple of miles short of the Scottish border at the mouth of the Tweed.

You’re left in no doubt that this community has been wrested from both English and Scottish grasp down the centuries.

When Richard I captured Berwick from the Scots in the 1300s he built the town walls, which were adapted to withstand artillery in the 1500s during Elizabeth I’s reign.

Most of these defences are still here, which is very rare for English towns.

There’s much more to see, from the three sandy beaches to the Tweed Estuary, crossed by Stevenson’s imposing Royal Border Railway Bridge.

The Berwick Barracks date to the early-1700s, at the time of the Jacobite risings and have enthralling exhibits about the last conflict fought on British soil.

3. Lindisfarne

This beautiful, mysterious and ancient island can be reached on foot via an ancient route known as the Pilgrim’s Way, but obviously you’ll need to keep an eye on the tide times before you set off.

At Lindisfarne you’ll encounter a priory that was first established in the 600s and then resurrected by the Normans a few centuries later.

At this site you’ll be going back to the earliest years of Christianity in Britain, but also the English language, as a biography of the 7th-century St Cuthbert is the oldest surviving English text.

The English Heritage centre has astounding Celtic religious carvings, and recounts the violent Viking raids that wrecked the island in the 800s.

4. Northumberland National Park

The least-inhabited national park in England encompasses 400 square miles of remote uplands littered with abandoned historic sites.

In the north are the Fleck Towers, small fortresses standing as watchtowers and beacons in the Scottish Marches in the middle ages.

And slicing across the south is the bulk of Hadrian’s Wall, with fragments of the forts that were stationed every few miles along the route.

Meanwhile, walkers, horse-riders, mountain bikers and anyone else aching for peaceful open spaces can fill their boots in this far-off land.

At night the skies are darker in the park than anywhere else in the country, another happy consequence of the lack of large settlements and literally heavenly for stargazers and amateur astronomers.

If you want to know more about Northumberland in Roman times, you couldn’t pick a better place than Hexham, which is directly on the wall.

The only trouble will be knowing where to start, as the forts in this part of the county, like Vindolanda, Cilurnum and Housesteads, are in good condition considering their antiquity.

The Roman Army museum adds another layer of interest and the Temple of Mithras at Carrawburgh is a reminder of just how much activity there was in this land 2,000 years ago.

Newer but no less enthralling is Hexham Abbey, with Early English Gothic architecture from the 12th century.

Go below to investigate the crypt built entirely with Roman stones that still bear their ancient inscriptions.

6. Seahouses

On the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Seahouses is an uncommonly pretty fishing village with a working port.

Many of your activities will be centred on the handsome harbour, where you can climb aboard boats for seal-spotting trips or adventures to the Farne Islands just offshore.

And after all that crisp sea air you can retire to the warmth one of the village’s inns for a pint and meal.

There are sand dunes and enormous sandy beaches both up and down the coast, and if you’ve ever fancied horseback riding you can saddle up for a ride here by the water in the most romantic setting imaginable.

A cultivated town in the south of the county, Morpeth has kept hold of most of its historical buildings.

Among them is the clock tower from the 1600s and Morpeth Chantry, a 13th-centruy chapel that holds the tourist information centre.

Harmonising with the elegant townscape is the Sanderson Arcade, a shopping gallery that looks like it could be 100 years old but was completed just a few years ago.

Young ones can make some animal friends at Eshott Heugh Animal Park and the Whitehouse Farm Centre, while there’s culture too at Belsay Hall and Wallington, two acclaimed country piles minutes outside the town.

8. Bamburgh

Also in the Northumbria AONB, Bamburgh draws holidaymakers for St Aiden Beach, hilly sand dunes and an exceptional castle.

This mighty landmark stands on a volcanic plateau and was the throne of the Norse Kings of Northumbria, boasting medieval Norman architecture, but with a tale that begins as far back as the 400s.

There’s another angle to Bamburgh’s allure: The village has a museum for a Victorian resident, Grace Darling who was the daughter of the Longstone Lighthouse keeper on the rocks off the coast.

In 1838 she helped rescue nine people from the wreck of the Forfarshire paddle steamer, becoming a national folk hero in the process.

In the county’s remotest western fringe, the village of Kielder is about as far as you can be from civilisation in England.

And yet despite (and because of) this remoteness there’s a great deal going on.

Near the crest of Black Fell, Kielder Observatory is an Eldorado for amateur astronomers, and if you’re new to the science there are even volunteers to show you how to use the telescopes.

In the village, Kielder Castle is actually a hunting lodge constructed by the Duke of Northumberland in 1775, but has an informative visitor centre.

And for total seclusion there’s Kielder Forest Park, which was only planted in the 1950s when it became the largest man-made forest in Europe at 250 square miles in size.

On the southern cusp of the Northumberland AONB, Amble is a cute old seaport where the Coquet empties into the North Sea.

Nature-lovers arrive in summer for cruises to Coquet Island, when 35,000 puffins jostle for space to make their nests.

The cute waterside village of Warkworth has a boundless sandy beach, as well as a tremendous landmark in Warkworth Castle.

During the Anglo-Scottish Wars in the 14th century this was a much-coveted stronghold and came under siege twice by the Scots.

And if you’re willing to go the extra mile you can go on a quest to discover Warkworth Hermitage, a medieval chapel that is cut from the cliffs on the Coquet and can only be reached by boat.

11. Corbridge

Right away something that might excite you about Corbridge is that many of the buildings are made from recycled Roman stone from the abandoned town of Corstopitum.

You can go and see what’s left of this garrison, which is still one of the most complete archaeological sites on Hadrian’s wall, and furnished with information boards to bring the foundations to life.

There’s medieval history to uncover at Aydon Castle, a medieval manor house that owes its defensive appearance to centuries of conflict along the Scottish border.

Put the first weekend in June in your diary, for the Corbridge Festival, which has street theatre, market stalls, a real ale talent competition and an excellent lineup of live music.

12. Ashington

Up to the 1840s Ashington was little more than a hamlet, but the area’s coal seams were soon exploited and the town grew to become one of the largest settlements in Northumberland.

This being a working town the blockbuster attraction is the heritage colliery at Woodhorn, moments east of Ashington.

Very little of this turn-of-the-century mine has been altered, and the winding house, towering headframes, engine house and a great ensemble of original outbuildings are as good as new.

For smaller visitors there’s the Woodhorn Railway, that uses two locomotives that had industrial uses, one at the Seaham Colliery and another at the Channel Tunnel.

12 Best Places to Visit in Northumberland:

• Berwick-upon-Tweed
• Lindisfarne
• Northumberland National Park

Away With Maja

Exploring northumberland: a coastal road trip itinerary.

Right before the ‘rona struck and the world went into lockdown, I had the most unbelievable weekend away in Northumberland. This county at the very north of England might just be the most underrated destination in the whole country! There is so much to do here that a weekend coastal road trip wasn’t really enough—a long weekend (3-4 days) would have been much better. Our itinerary focused mainly on the Northumberland Coast. But if you’re wanting to visit Northumberland for the weekend or longer, look no further! Here is a complete road trip itinerary for Northumberland and on the Northumberland coast.

What to See in Northumberland

There is a LOT to see in Northumberland, and more than likely squeezing everything into a weekend might feel a bit rushed. Hopefully you’ll have an extra day or two, so here’s what to see and do in Northumberland!

Hiking in the Cheviot Hills (Northumberland National Park)

If you like hiking and getting outdoors, definitely dedicate part of your Northumberland trip to exploring the Cheviot Hills. While the weather wasn’t on my side on this trip, this area is gorgeous. I attempted to hike up the Cheviot from Langleeford. While I had to turn back due to literally no visibility, I could still appreciate how beautiful the valley is.

It also felt really remote! While there weren’t very many people braving the elements, we only saw about 6 other groups on our 5-hour walk. Most of these were at either the beginning or the end. I definitely want to go back and see more of Northumberland National Park! But if you only have a weekend in Northumberland, don’t miss this incredible and scenic part of the country. If you are going out, make sure to check out my outdoor gear guide so you’re prepared! You’ll need the Cheviot Hills OS Map . I also use the OS Maps app on most of my hikes in the UK now.

Kielder Forest Park is meant to be wonderful for getting outdoors. It’s one of the best places for “dark skies” in the country. And of course, Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most popular places to visit in Northumberland. As my weekend itinerary in Northumberland mainly focused on the coast, I won’t go into many details on visiting Hadrian’s Wall! I had actually planned to hike the entire trail (86 miles) in 2020, and did the hike in 2021! You can read about my 6-day itinerary for Hadrian’s Wall , or what you should know about Hadrian’s Wall .

If you’re not interested in hiking, I’d recommend spending most of the first day in Berwick-upon-Tweed . If I had had another day, this is what I would have done! Just 3 miles from the Scottish border, Berwick-upon-Tweed has a fascinating history as the city has changed hands so many times.

Lindisfarne (the Holy Island)

Next up on your Northumberland road trip itinerary is a visit to Lindisfarne, also called the Holy Island. This is one of the most unique destinations I have visited in the entirety of the UK, so if you’re visiting Northumberland this is a must!

Lindisfarne is also called the Holy Island as a monastery was founded here in the 600s. It was an important base for Christianity in the north of England. For monks who wanted to live remotely away from others, this tidal island was perfect!

You’ll need to plan out your visit in advance though—the island is accessed by a tidal causeway. Make sure to check the tide times from the Northumberland council website so you know when you can visit. Please be aware of this and please don’t take any chances! Just a few hours after we left, a group had to be rescued by the Coast Guard from the causeway. The tide times limited our visit to just over 1 hour when we visited. I would absolutely recommend longer—preferably 2 or 3 hours. But given the choice of spending all our time on Lindisfarne, and seeing nothing else of Northumberland, we chose to explore more of Northumberland.

There is a lot to do on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. You can visit Lindisfarne Priory (run by English Heritage ) or visit Lindisfarne Castle (run by National Trust). There is a walking path along most of the coast of the island (approximately 5 miles), which will take several hours. Make sure to check out the boat sheds along the harbor—these are made from old boats and now overturned and used for storage.

Bamburgh Castle

Northumberland is home to some pretty amazing and imposing castles. Bamburgh Castle is built right along the coast, and should definitely merit a stop on any Northumberland Coastal Route road trip. Tip: if you’re driving south from Lindisfarne, definitely take the scenic route (marked with brown road signs) along the coast to get to Bamburgh Castle!

There’s a lot to see in Bamburgh Castle. The King’s Hall is magnificent, with the beams made with teak from Thailand. The State Rooms and the Keep tell the stories of the castle and its owners, and there are beautiful coastal views from the walls of the castle. Definitely give yourself a minimum of 1 hour to discover everything here.

Seahouses and Farne Islands

Seahouses is a large village right on the Northumberland coast. If you want to enjoy classic seaside fun, this is a great stop—there are plenty of places to get ice cream and fish and chips. But perhaps one of the best reasons to stop at Seahouses is to take a trip out to the Farne Islands. You can read all about my visit to the Farne Islands on a later trip! These islands are some of the best places for birdwatching in the whole country, with 23 species of birds nesting here including puffins!!!

Dunstanburgh Castle

Next up on the list of fantastic castles in Northumberland is Dunstanburgh Castle. This castle is run by English Heritage, so there is an entrance fee if you’re not a member to access the ruins. You can sign up to join English Heritage as a member here ! This was a real highlight of my weekend in Northumberland because of the coastal walk from Craster. It’s just under a 1.5-mile walk along the sea which is easy to follow. While it’s not paved, there is clearly a path and it wasn’t too muddy when I went in March. While the castle itself is mainly ruins now, there are some great views from the tower over the coast and surrounding area! You’ll need to park in the village of Craster to start the walk to the castle.

There is so much to see and do in Alnwick that it could easily merit its own weekend break and separate blog post. Alnwick Castle is one of the best places to visit in Northumberland. Parts of the first two Harry Potter movies were filmed here! The castle is only open seasonally (generally April-October) so make sure to keep that in mind when planning a trip. Alnwick Gardens is also incredible—so many beautiful plants and flowers to see! Barter Books is housed in an old train station and is especially popular on Instagram. I visited Alnwick in 2021, so read all about my trip to Alnwick here !

This pretty coastal village is located across the main A1 highway from Alnwick, nestled right along the sea. It’s smaller than Alnwick, but has the benefit of the coast and the estuary of the River Aln. The beach here is just spectacular, and the village is so picturesque—it looked like a postcard!

Warkworth Castle

The last castle I was able to visit on my Northumberland road trip was Warkworth Castle. This medieval castle is run by English Heritage, and has had its fair share of history through the Percy family and the Wars of the Roses. If you time your visit right, you can also visit the Hermitage, which is only accessible by boat along the River Coquet. This chapel is carved out of the rock and only open on certain times on certain days. Find out more information on the English Heritage site here —you can also sign up to join English Heritage here .

How to Get Around Northumberland

Driving is the best way to get around Northumberland. Having your own set of wheels will give you so much freedom! Northumberland is perfect for a road trip and I definitely recommend a car as the best way to get around Northumberland. You can visit some of the main destinations like Berwick-upon-Tweed by train. You can get there on a direct train from London (I always use Trainline for the best deals on train tickets). Alnmouth has a train station on the main line between London and Edinburgh, and there are bus networks to get you to Alnwick. But while there are buses along the coast, they just aren’t frequent enough to visit everything in a weekend or 3 days. So I would strongly recommend having a car to visit Northumberland.

One thing to remember when planning your road trip in Northumberland is parking charges. Nearly all of these places are accessed from car parks that charge a fee. I did some research beforehand and we ended up buying an all-day, transferrable, ticket for Northumberland County Council car parks at our first stop. This meant that parking at Lindisfarne, Bamburgh, and Craster (for Dunstanburgh Castle) was covered by this ticket. I also believe one of the car parks in Seahouses would have been covered too. The all-day ticket cost £5.50 and was well worth it. Note that it isn’t transferrable to all Northumberland County Council car parks, but for many of the ones we were visiting. Warkworth Castle has free parking for English Heritage members.

Where I Stayed

I was based in the small town of Wooler for my weekend away in Northumberland. We stayed at the Old Court House, which was absolutely wonderful. Our double room was spacious and the breakfasts were like something out of a dream—a full English on top of fruits, cereals, yogurts, etc. But what really set this B&B apart were the friendly staff. I felt genuinely looked after during our stay here. You can tell that the people who run the Old Court House care about giving their guests the absolute best time. If you’re looking for a welcoming and cozy place to stay in Northumberland stay at the Old Court House! You can read my full review of the Old Court House here .

UPDATE 2022: Unfortunately the Old Court House has closed. I still think Wooler is a fantastic place to base yourself in Northumberland!

Planning Your Trip

Looking for a tour to join? Check out these tours that take in the Northumberland highlights!

Northumberland might just be my new favorite destination in England. This is such an underrated part of the country, and exploring the area on a weekend road trip is a great way to see some of the major attractions! I will definitely be back to Northumberland, hopefully this year! I hope this guide helps planning your road trip around Northumberland!

Have you visited Northumberland yet? What were your favorite places?!

You might like my other posts:

A 6-Day Itinerary for Hiking Hadrian’s Wall

What You Need to Know About Hiking Hadrian’s Wall

Why You Should Visit Alnwick, Northumberland

Review: Old Court House B&B, Wooler

88 Incredible Places To Visit In Yorkshire

The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To England’s Lake District

21 Of The BEST Places To Visit In The North York Moors

All of my England posts!

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8 thoughts on “ exploring northumberland: a coastal road trip itinerary ”.

[…] had a fantastic weekend away in Northumberland in March—this was my first real visit to this underrated part of the country! While most of the […]

[…] took me 3.5 years of living in England to get to Northumberland, and I’m so glad I finally made it! This was my last trip before lockdown, a weekend getaway to […]

[…] Exploring Northumberland: A Coastal Road Trip Itinerary […]

[…] seabirds in Britain is the Farne Islands, in Northumberland. I’ve loved my trips exploring the Northumberland coast. Whether you’re wanting to explore the Farne Islands or spot puffins, gannets, guillemots, […]

[…] Wall, an 84-mile, long-distance trail through Northumberland and across England. Having visited Northumberland pre-rona in 2020 (roadtripping along the coast), I fell totally in love with this underrated part […]

[…] Peak District is easily within two hours, the Lake District just over two hours away. I can be in Northumberland in two hours, Snowdonia in three, and I’ll get to the Scottish border in 2.5 hours. Manchester […]

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Find somewhere to visit on your journey

During your journey along our wonderful coastline and Area of Natural Beauty, you may want to stop and take in the sights at one of the many places that run alongside the route with amazing views and fascinating history. Here are a list of just a few of the many wonderful places that you would come across along the length of the walk.

Bamburgh Castle

Visit this Royal Fortress, Norman Castle and Coastal Home that stood guard above the spectacular Northumberland Coastline for over 1400 years.

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Berwick-upon-tweed tourist information centre.

Find out more information about things to do in Berwick to make the most of your visit to this northernmost town in England and the surrounding area.

Craster Tourist Information Centre

Craster Tourist Information Centre is situated in the Quarry Car Park just at the entrance to Craster village. The village of Craster is on the Northumberland coast, 6 miles northeast of Alnwick. Craster has always been known as a fishing village, with its traditional fishing boats (or cobles) bringing in a variety of fish including herring. The small harbour was built in the nineteenth century for the herring fishery. Perhaps it is most famous for the curing sheds that produce the famous Craster kippers . The spectacular Dunstanburgh Castle is reached via a short coastal walk from Craster car park.

Druridge Bay Country Park

Discover a living landscape rich in wildlife as you walk on a stunning seven-mile stretch of sand located between Amble and Cresswell.

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

Learn about the life of Grace, Victorian Britain's greatest heroine. Discover her story through her personal items and find yourself transported back to 1838 with the museum's audio-visual tools and exhibitions.

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Hiking in Northumberland

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Take a walk on the wild side in Northumberland. The rural county of Northumberland combines dramatic rolling hills and valleys , as well as vast, flat stretches of immaculate beaches , so whether you want to spend time in the countryside walking through some of Northumberland’s most spectacular forests , or to discover one of England’s most beautiful beaches , Northumberland has so much to offer. Explore rugged landscapes , stick to short routes with a pub waiting for you at the end, or head out in search of hidden waterfalls and rare wildlife in Northumberland. Join like-minded hikers on a guided walk , or do some independent exploring with our suggested routes. A winter walk in Northumberland is a great way to blow away the cobwebs during the festive period, from traditional Boxing Day walks to simply walking off that Christmas dinner.

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