Iconic Northumberland

The Northumberland landscape bears the mark of 2000 years of history. Iconic landmarks symbolise the rich history and cultural heritage that resonate throughout the county today. The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, birthplace of English Christianity, stands majestically off the north Northumberland coast, its castle perched distinctively atop a volcanic mound, visible for miles from the surrounding golden beaches. Cut off from the mainland twice a day by the tides, Lindisfarne retains an air of isolation and unspoilt beauty.

Retrace Northumberland's Roman past at the Roman Empire's most northerly frontier - Hadrian's Wall, England's largest World Heritage Site - a serpentine monument snaking east to west from horizon to horizon with superb Roman fortresses and museums en route.

The dramatically situated Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh Castle are similarly iconic. Steeped in colourful history, these astonishing landmarks provide a breathtaking sight, one rising above stunning landscaped grounds, the other perched atop a basalt outcrop on one of the finest beaches England has to offer.

Discover England's most tranquil spot, lying deep within the beautiful woodland of Kielder Water & Forest Park or visit Woodhorn, our £16m visitor attraction and research centre where 20th Century Northumberland is brought to life, housed in the spectacular Cutter Building, inspired by the monster coal cutting machines that once lay deep underground. Similarly modern, but altogether unique is the Alnwick Garden. The vision of the Duchess of Northumberland, this stunning attraction is one of the most exciting and ambitious contemporary gardens to be developed in the last century.