Wild Eats
The Wild Eats trail covers the rugged beauty of rural Northumberland, from the ancient remains of Hadrian’s Wall and its staggering surrounding landscape, to the fringes of the beautiful Cheviots and into the picture-perfect Ford and Etal Estates.
Try as much or as little as you like as you explore Northumberland’s awe-inspiring countryside. You can treat yourself to a Michelin-star tasting menu at Restaurant Pine, picturesquely set in rural Northumberland, then tuck into hearty pub grub at The Highlander, a great place to stop off after visiting Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens.
Admire panoramic views of the Cheviots Hills at The Bosk Restaurant and end your explorations by getting stuck into some foodie experiences, such as a hike in the Cheviots and al-fresco gourmet lunch with Fells Kitchen, or a bread-making workshop at Heatherslaw Corn Mill.
Tea in the Town
Wander cobbled streets, pop into independent shops and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Northumberland’s towns and villages with the Tea in the Town trail. Starting in Newcastle city centre, this itinerary covers a bit of everything, from cosy pubs and cafes to elegant restaurants with a historical twist.
While the first stop isn’t in Northumberland, Newcastle-based Dobson and Parnell prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients from Northumberland on its delectable menu. Enjoy quayside charm here in Newcastle before venturing to peaceful Ponteland, where you can bask in the sun-soaked beer garden in the summer and warm up by an open fire in the winter at The Blackbird.
Experience the warm, farmhouse feel of The Courtyard Pegswood and try tasty small plates or a hearty roast dinner, then venture into the cobbled market town of Alnwick and dine beside Alnwick Castle in Bailiffgate Hotel’s beautiful Restaurant Motte and Bailey. End your trip at the impressive Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Whisky Distillery for a fascinating museum tour, whisky distillery experience and delicious dinner in their Bēodern restaurant.
Catch of the Coast
If you’re into seafood, there are few better places to enjoy fresh catches than on the Northumberland coast. Lined with castle ruins, picturesque fishing villages and long, sandy beaches, Northumberland’s coastline is the perfect place to explore and fuel up at exquisite seafood restaurants in between explorations.
Follow Northumberland’s stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path and start your adventure with exquisite seafood and selected wines at Jaspers, tucked away on quiet Bridge Street in Amble but just moments from the bustling harbour. Admire the beautiful fishing village of Alnmouth and enjoy a fireside dinner at the boutique coastal hotel, The Whittling House, then head slightly inland to visit the wonderful Tempus Hotel, whose decor is inspired by Alice in Wonderland and whose lively, elegantly decorated restaurant is a lovely spot for Afternoon Tea, light lunch or hearty dinner.
Round off your trip with a stop at Seahouses and steal a seafront seat at The Old Buoy Inn, then head up to Bamburgh to admire amazing Bamburgh Castle before enjoying first-class, local seafood and the renowned restaurant The Potted Lobster.