
Northumberland is one big open air garden. Home to forests, wild upland hills and lovely river valleys, Mother Nature was generous in providing all kinds of landscape to enjoy for free.

Northumberland is one of the largest of the English counties in terms of area size. And it is a deeply rural county. But that doesn’t mean it is accessible only by car. Have a day off from navigating and driving.

TV and film companies love Northumberland. Easy to access, spectacular landscape and locations as varied as anyone could wish for, this is a film maker’s dream.

We all like to be beside the seaside and Northumberland has a coastline to envy with a maritime heritage to match. Such is the importance of the landscape and the flora and fauna that a large part of the coast is designated as Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Northumberland’s many myths, legends and centuries old traditions? In a county with such a long history of human activity and moody and dramatic landscapes, hidden nooks and crannies, Northumberland is a land of legends, and even some ghostly goings-on.

Family friendly attractions, family friendly refreshment stops and great value accommodation make Northumberland a perfect all-round family day out or holiday.

Intermediate cyclists or mountain bikers who have basic off-road skills and reasonable fitness will love the blue graded Border Counties Railway route.

Why not enjoy a weekend break and stay in one of the luxury lodges at Leaplish Waterside Park? Don’t forget to check opening times for the attractions below before you set off.

There’s so much to do at Kielder Water & Forest Park, the choice is yours. There are many reasons to visit; the most popular being the distinctive scenery. Home to northern Europe’s largest man-made lake and England’s largest forest, the Park’s remoteness and clean air and water offer a fresh outdoor experience.

There’s so much to pack into your trip it is impossible to see all of the Park in a day but here are your top must sees – the attractions that are too good to miss. Pick and choose whichever fit your timings best! Don’t forget to check opening times for the attractions below before you set off.

Did you know that Kielder Water & Forest Park is home to the UK’s largest outdoor art gallery? A great way to experience a different take on this unique environment is by exploring some of the unusual and engaging contemporary art and architectural works that are sited here.

Camping and caravanning gives you the best of both worlds – a place to chill that’s also close to the action.

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or an experienced fisherman, Kielder Water offers rod bending opportunities for every type of angler, even those who are brand new to fishing.

Northumberland is fortunate in having some of the best researched and best documented remains of Britain’s Roman heritage. Other places in Great Britain have Roman remains. But Northumberland’s Roman story is different.

For real spirit of place, it is hard to match Northumberland. Christian faith spread from the Holy Island of Lindisfarne when it became the Cradle of Celtic Christianity in the 7th century. Hope played out on Northumberland’s medieval battlefields.

Northumberland’s varied landscape lends itself to produce some of the finest local food in the country. Here we take you through some of the best places to stop and sample some of these amazing tastes.

In 2012 Queen Elizabeth II marks the Diamond Jubilee of her succession to the throne. And the United Kingdom and Commonwealth will be in festive and celebratory mood. Northumberland will join in those festivities and even has its own royal connections to produce a “right royal day out”.

45 miles
Late winter/early spring season in February and March are the best times to see the snowdrops in Northumberland. Here is a suggested tour of the bet places to see the snowdrops.

9 miles
Follow the Northumberland coast North from Alnmouth to Craster via Boulmer, Howdiemont, Sugar Sands and Howick Burn along the Northumberland Coast Path.

30 miles
Rebellion, battles and bloodshed has played out on Northumberland’s soil for hundreds of years. Follow the coastal castle trail to discover some of Northumberland's turbulent history.

2-3miles
An enjoyable stroll along the Northumberland Coast AONB from the village of Craster the the romantic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and back again.

5 miles
A must-see for birdwatchers and seal-spotters alike! Take a 1 hour boat trip from Amble aroudn Coquet Island then take the bus north to Warkworth Castle for 25% off admissions with your Arriva bus ticket.

5 miles
An enjoyable walk around Craster, Beadnell and Newton-by-the-Sea. With plenty of birdwatching opportunities along the way all year you're bound to get some great photos.

10 miles
Take the bus to the beautiful village of Bamburgh and visit the RNLI Grace Darling Museum to learn about how the 22 year old risked her life in an open boat to help the survivors of the wrecked SS Forfashire on 7th September 1838..

5 miles
Take the bus or drive to the village of Craster and begin your walk heading south. You'll take in some fantastic coastal scenery - and great fishing spots - before arriving at Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum.