When the longer nights make the
dark skies more dazzling, the chilly days make log burners more satisfying and the frosty mornings make the landscape more staggering. Gold-tier dark skies, golden landscapes and
cosy B&Bs are just some of Northumberland’s delights when autumn falls over the county.
There’s a chill in the air, crunchy leaves lie underfoot, and your ice lolly cravings have been replaced with the desire to wrap your hands around a hot mug of coffee and curl up with a blanket. It’s officially autumn, so grab your chunky knits from the back of the wardrobe and let Northumberland
leaf a smile on your face.
Blow away the cobwebs with a walk through the golden landscape that takes over Northumberland when September strikes. Step into your hiking boots and admire the vibrant reds and oranges that line the National Park trails, or pull your woolly hat over your ears and wander along a windy beach as you breathe in the fresh sea air. If you’re an early bird, time your walk with sunrise and watch the horizon light up with a pink glow, or stroll after sunset and look out for the Northern Lights that have been known to swirl across Northumberland’s skies. Then, escape from the chill by nipping into a traditional pub where you can warm your toes by the open fire, slurp on a hot chocolate and fill your belly with some pub grub.
There’s something about the cold that makes you feel especially indulgent, and many of Northumberland’s food festivals fall at just the right time. Pop-up stalls and bunting line the cobbled streets of Berwick, Alnwick and Morpeth between September and December, as the delicious scent of regional street food drifts into your nostrils, cookery demonstrations pass you by and a selection of local tipples are on offer to warm you up.
If the weather takes a turn for the worst and you’re looking to take shelter, one of Northumberland’s many museums, castles, halls and houses are sure to lure you in. Ancient Romans, Vikings, The Border Reivers and famous Victorian figures are just a few snapshots of history that are represented in Northumberland’s historical sites.
Thanks to the darkness setting in earlier and the nights becoming longer, the stars appear brighter, clearer and more spectacular in autumn. Get to know Northumberland’s galaxy at Kielder Observatory, graze while you gaze at award-winning Battlesteads’ shooting star supper, or pick a Dark Sky Friendly accommodation so you can stargaze until you fall asleep.