Northumberland is a picturesque county known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites and charming villages. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Northumberland offers a wide range of activities and attractions to suit every taste.
Castles
Bamburgh Castle
Seize the day at award-winning Bamburgh Castle, the real Last Kingdom of Bebbanburg. Discover over 3000 years of incredible history, high adventure, exhilarating views and sea air
Castles
Alnwick Castle
and Gardens
Alnwick Castle is a must-visit for history buffs and fans of the Harry Potter series alike. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 11th century and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Explore the castle’s opulent interiors, learn about its fascinating past and don’t miss the chance to stroll through the stunning Alnwick Gardens
Walking
Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-see attraction. Built by the Romans in AD 122, this ancient wall stretches across the northern part of the county and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take a leisurely walk along the wall, visit the various forts and museums along the way and immerse yourself in the rich history of this remarkable structure
History
Visit Holy Island and Lindisfarne Castle
Accessible only at low tide, Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, is a unique destination that should not be missed. Explore the charming village with its quaint shops and cafes, visit the historic Lindisfarne Priory and don’t forget to climb up to Lindisfarne Castle for panoramic views of the island and the Northumberland coast. Be sure to check the tide times before crossing the causeway to avoid getting stranded on the island
Other places to see
Dunstanburgh Castle
Ruins of a 14th-century castle with a dramatic coastal setting
Chillingham Castle
Known for its medieval architecture and ghost tours. Reputed to be the most haunted castle in England
Northumberland National Park
Offers stunning landscapes, walking trails, and wildlife
Farne Islands
Accessible by boat, these islands are famous for their birdlife and seal colonies. Organised trips by boat from nearby Seahouses
Kielder Water and Forest Park
Home to the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and extensive forest trails
Simonside Hills
Popular for hiking and panoramic views
Bamburgh Beach
Beautiful sandy beach with views of Bamburgh Castle
Beadnell Bay
Known for its sandy beach and water sports
Seahouses
A charming coastal village with boat trips to the
Farne Islands
The Alnwick Garden
Contemporary gardens with a unique treehouse and water features
The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre
A visitor center dedicated to Northumberland National Park
Berwick-upon-Tweed
A historic market town with Elizabethan walls and a variety of museums and galleries
Ford & Etal Estates
Includes historic attractions, a light railway and craft shops
Cragside
A Victorian country house with extensive gardens, known for being the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity
Heatherslaw Light Railway
A scenic narrow-gauge railway ride
Chatton Park Hill Circles
Celtic bronze age cup and ring marks carved in stone from about 1800BC
