The Simonside Hills

Explore Northumberland

Experiences for everyone
Discover every corner of Northumberland, where outstanding coastline and countryside are always close by, wherever you find yourself. Hit the road or the cycling route, step into your hiking boots or your wetsuit, and get lost in our endless landscapes.

Anything but ordinary

Whether you are travelling to Northumberland and you are here for two weeks or two days, a family of four or exploring on your own, Northumberland has endless ways and so many hidden gems to keep you thrilled, fascinated, and entertained.

Stargaze in the biggest Dark Sky Park in England, experience areas of outstanding natural beauty, walk or hike along miles of unspoilt coastline, savour the exquisite flavours of our local seafood with some of the region’s most famous fish and chips spots, set your heart racing with action-packed adventures, enjoy learning a new watersport, explore Northumberland’s most iconic castles, wildlife watch or simply take time out to relax and recharge at one of the regions spas.

Whatever you choose to do, no matter the season, whether you explore the magic of Northumberland in autumn and winter with cold and crisp days, or the sunshine filled adventures in spring and summer, Northumberland has so many things to do and destinations to explore come rain or shine.

Explore the area

Amble

Home to a harbour filled with fish shacks, seafood eateries, and pastel-painted beach huts, the waterfront town of Amble hugs the River Coquet estuary at the southern gateway to the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Hexham

Stunning architecture, picturesque parks, and a bloody history are all waiting to be explored in Hexham. Immerse yourself in stories about the Vikings, historical criminal families or ‘Border Reivers’, and the Anglo-Saxon Abbey.

Alnwick

From broomsticks to bookshops, tree houses to cherry blossoms, and jousts to dragons, you can't miss the magic of the cobbled market town of Alnwick when you visit Northumberland.

Morpeth

Combining history and heritage with hustle and bustle, traditional farmers markets lie around one cobbled corner and trendy bars lie around another; all ready for you to discover when you visit Morpeth.

Corbridge

Corbridge is so much more than a quiet little Northumberland town - it has a vast history and a Roman heritage that can still be seen today. So, whether you’re a history-lover or an avid shopper, there is something in Corbridge for you to enjoy.

Craster

The famous smoked kippers popular with the Royal Family, the ruins of what was once a magnificent fortress, local art, a tranquil cove, and bird spotting are just a few of the things that will make your visit to the fishing village of Craster so memorable.

Warkworth

A high street framed by a 12th-century church and a magnificent castle, artisan shops, and incredible views, it's no wonder why this ancient village is a must-see. Warkworth is small, but it contains a wealth of history just waiting to be discovered.

Blyth

Industrial heritage, spectacular sea views, and one of the best fish and chip restaurants in the county describe Blyth in a nutshell, with its still-working port, buzzing quayside, and promenade lined with brightly painted beach huts.

Bellingham

Bellingham is a historic market town and with its village charm, riverside setting and spectacular countryside, it will be a retreat to remember. B&Bs, traditional pubs and stone cottages can be found in the village, with waterfalls, trails and cycling routes just waiting to be explored.

Alnmouth

With its colourful houses, wildlife aplenty, and tranquil beach, Alnmouth sits within one of Northumberland's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There's always an opportunity to appreciate the coastline here, be it walking, cycling, or horse riding.

Bamburgh

A pristine beach, drifting sand dunes, snug eateries tucked away on street corners, and a magnificent castle view everywhere you turn. These are just a few of Bamburgh’s draws, not to mention its coastal setting in the county's AONB.

Otterburn

Otterburn is a vibrant, picturesque community. As the site of the Battle of Otterburn, this village has a violent history which is almost undetectable against the peaceful landscape of the Redesdale Valley.

Blanchland

Beneath a woodland cloak in a fairytale setting amongst the fells, sits the storybook, small village of Blanchland. Built from the stones of Blanchland Abbey in 1165, it seemingly hasn’t changed since, and murmurings of its fascinating history echo in the moors.

Beadnell

With its protected waters and golden sandy beaches, Beadnell is a watersports paradise. Take the plunge and try activities such as kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and wakeboarding.

Longframlington

An award-winning village shop, stone-front buildings and traditional pubs with flowing local tipples make up the village of Longframlington. Sweeping landscapes and winding woodland paths can be enjoyed in this spot in the Coquetdale countryside.

Ashington

With stunning woodland, a vast history, and a proud community, Ashington is a town in south east Northumberland with a heritage made for sharing. Its farmland and once growing coal industry contributes to its enjoyable and friendly atmosphere.

Kielder Village

Rustic, remote and practically hidden, Kielder is encompassed within the woodland of Kielder Water & Forest Park. With its low-slung stone cottages, it is an idyllic springboard for a number of activities that the surrounding forest has to offer.

Wooler

Wooler offers that middle-of-nowhere feeling while still having a market town buzz, combining home comforts with countryside. You can be hiking the Cheviot Hills in one moment and trying local beers at Glendale Festival in the next in this rural hub.

Allendale

Shimmering rivers, beautiful waterfalls, and stunning moorlands, with wildlife in abundance, Allendale is a picturesque and unforgettable part of Northumberland. A small village, with a big personality.

Ponteland Northumberland

Enjoy the vibrant high street, stunning riverside setting and quaint, winding lanes of the large village of Ponteland [pronounced Pon-tee-land]. Boasting boutique shops, bustling bars, cosy cafes and exquisite restaurants, it suits those seeking sophistication in their Northumberland getaway.

Belford

Wedged between the coast and the countryside, barely-trodden Belford is an ideal spot for exploring every corner of Northumberland. As an old coaching town, the village has a long history of giving visitors a warm welcome.

Haltwhistle

Haltwhistle is located directly in the heart of Great Britain. This Northumberland market town is home to woodland, quirky shops and restaurants, as well as home to the regions only open-air swimming pool and a section of Hadrian’s Wall which is almost intact.

Powburn

Powburn has plenty of events to keep you entertained, and many natural sites to see. This village is close to many nature reserves, parks, and a historic causeway, so you’ll never be short of something to do here.

Wylam

The small village of Wylam is perhaps best known for its history of railway pioneering and fantastic architecture and is perfect for those with a love of the past. Going back in time, Wylam was industry led and was one of several colliery villages found throughout the Tyne Valley.

Ford and Etal

The Ford and Etal Estates are home to some of Northumberland's hidden gems. Situated in the north of the county close to the Scottish border, here you will find a wealth of heritage attractions, miles of beautiful countryside and activities such as canoeing, horse riding and cycling.

Low Newton

Low Newton's charming Embleton Bay, its white fisherman's cottages, its local produce, and its stunning stretch of Northumberland coastline are all reasons to visit this small, yet remarkable, place.

Haydon Bridge

Nestled between the National Park and the North Pennines, Haydon Bridge hugs some of Northumberland’s most spectacular landscapes and is so picturesque that it has inspired both poetry and paint brush strokes.

Kirkharle

This peaceful hamlet just west of Morpeth is the birthplace of the iconic Capability Brown, a leading light in heritage landscape design. Enjoy the incredible landscape he created in his hometown by visiting Kirkharle.

Seahouses Hotels

Seahouses has hotels with stunning sea views close to the fun activities and events the town has to offer. Treat yourself to luxury and curl up in a cosy bedroom after a long day of exploring the hidden gems in this coastal paradise.

Rothbury

Located in the heart of Northumberland, surrounded by beautiful scenery and rare wildlife, with a bustling high street and regular events programme, there is no doubt why Rothbury appeals to everyone.

Cresswell

Located on the Northumberland Coast Path, the seaside village of Cresswell is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists. Cresswell Beach and Cresswell Towers Holiday Park also make it a popular location for families especially in the school holidays.

Felton

Felton is a small village situated on the River Coquet and is famous for hosting Oliver Cromwell back in the day whilst he was on route to the Battle of Dunbar. In its present form it is close to the A1 and located between the market towns of Alnwick and Morpeth.

Cramlington

Located 9 miles north of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, sitting in the South East of Northumberland, Cramlington has so much to see and visit. From the largest female land sculpture in the world at Northumberlandia, to retail therapy and many indoor attractions to keep you and your little ones entertained if the weather is against you.

Things to do in Northumberland

You'll be amazed how many things there are to see and do in Northumberland. Whatever your age or interests, you'll find unforgettable experiences around every corner. From exploring castles, museums, historic houses and gardens, to enjoying events, food and drink, local markets and festivals, there is so much to do in Northumberland.

A county for all seasons

It’s always a good time to visit Northumberland. Spring wildlife, summer beach days, autumn stargazing, and winter events make our astounding county worth exploring at the turn of every season.

Come and experience a county that's brimming with experiences for a break, whatever time of year.

Explore more

Mountain biking in purple heather
Family walk in Northumberland
Couple enjoying a boat trip
Hadrian's Wall
Surf Northumberland
Outdoor adventures in Northumberland

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