Destinations in Northumberland

Every day is a discovery

Northumberland never fails to surprise and delight. With so many destinations and experiences to discover, it's a place people come back to, time and again.

Unforgettable places

From the lush, green valleys and forests in the west, to the unspoilt, dune-lined beaches in the east, Northumberland is blessed with an irresistible mix of stunning scenery, fascinating historical sites, and unforgettable adventures.

The rural county of Northumberland is a short drive from the vibrant and bustling city of Newcastle and the cathedral city of Durham.

Northumberland is a place of tranquillity, where you can walk in the footsteps of saints at Holy Island, skim stones along 30 miles of unspoilt beaches, stroll back in time 2,000 years along Hadrian’s Wall, meet the local seals and puffins at the Farne Islands, then sleep under a canopy of stars in our International Dark Skies Park.

Experience more

You’ll never be stuck for places to go or things to see. In fact, the biggest problem will be deciding what to do next. But don’t worry, we always have suggestions. From exploring the region’s most iconic castles captured in film and television, imagining you are a Roman soldier whilst walking Hadrian’s Wall, or relaxing with a walk along some of Northumberland’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Islands

Dive with grey seals, wander through an ancient priory, sail at sunset and go on a wildlife boat trip on Northumberland’s islands. From the tidal island of Lindisfarne to the puffin-filled Coquet Island and Farne Islands, they are simply magical.

Towns and villages

Spend your holiday in our idyllic towns and villages and pick from tiny villages perched on staggering stretches of coastline, bustling market towns boasting marvellous castles, and remote, countryside villages that hold traditional county shows.

Lakes and reservoirs

Clear waters, idyllic views, waterside walking routes and intriguing wildlife can all be expected at Northumberland’s lakes and reservoirs. Challenge yourself to watersports, explore cycling routes and traverse picturesque trails in our waterside locations.

Forests

Wander along woodland walkways, weave your way through the trees by bike, and discover hidden wildlife rustling on the forest floor and soaring over the treetops. Everything from nature hides to horse rides can be enjoyed in Northumberland's forests.

Beaches and coastline

Admire blazing sunrises, discover hidden bays, and relish superb seafood on our pristine coastline. Spot our castles standing guard along our dramatic shoreline, and explore more than 30 miles of barely-trodden beaches.

Scenic spots

Rushing waterfalls, an ancient Roman wall, barely-trodden bays and sweeping, rugged hills; Northumberland’s scenic spots are tough to beat. In fact, the county is essentially one big scenic spot, and we’ve just picked some of the best places to visit to help you when you visit Northumberland.

Endless attractions

Step back in time at our historical sites, stand still beneath our dark skies and get up close to our wildlife. Our attractions offer infinite opportunities for discovery. From some of the region's best hidden gems in North Northumberland, to popular spots to enjoy in South Northumberland, there is so much to do and discover in Northumberland.

Castles

The only time you want your holiday to end in ruins is when you visit Northumberland. Home to more castles than any other county in England so why not explore magnificent fortresses, stay in a haunted castle with ghostly grounds, or explore a ruined medieval castle in the array of enchanting castles in Northumberland.

Girl wanders round a Northumberland Garden

Gardens

Golden daffodils, vibrant rhododendrons, and Japanese cherry blossoms are just a few of the dazzling array of flowers you can admire in Northumberland's gardens. Get lost in mazes, wander along woodland paths and spot wildlife amongst the trees.

Historical sites

With castle remains scattered across our county and along our coastline, staggering Hadrian’s Wall dipping and weaving through our National Park and opulent stately homes sitting in our towns, Northumberland’s historical sites feel almost infinite.

Dark skies

It's safe to say that Northumberland is the best place to stargaze in the UK. 572 square miles of the county have been awarded Gold Tier status for their pristine dark skies, and our International Dark Sky Park is the largest in the UK. So get ready for a star-studded show.

Film and TV

Magical castles, barely-trodden beaches and staggering landscapes; no wonder Northumberland has a starring role in world-famous films and TV series. From broomstick lessons to murder mysteries, it has been the backdrop for all kinds of storylines.

Wildlife and nature

Adorable puffins, lazing seals, magical dolphins and rare ospreys are just some of the array of wildlife in Northumberland. Go wild goat spotting in the Cheviots, take wildlife boat trips and tiptoe through forests to find deer peeking from the trees.

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