Sporting Events in Northumberland

Feel the thrill of live sport

Beautiful vistas are a big part of Northumberland’s appeal. But there’s also much more to this stunning part of the country. There are also sporting events in Northumberland suited to every type of spectator and participant, from scenic marathon trails to heart-racing football league games, and every hobby in between.

If the roar of a crowd, the slap of a bat, or the gallop of hooves is what has brought you to our versatile county, then these are the sporting events to keep an eye out for. 

Horse Racing at Hexham Racecourse

If you’re looking for horse racing in Northumberland, this is where you’ll find it. As the only racecourse in Northumberland (and also Britain's most scenic), Hexham Racecourse offers one of the most exclusive race-day experiences in Britain. 

With an average of 2,300 attendees at every event, this venue promises a fun day out for all ages.

Upcoming events

Keep an eye out for Hexham Racecourse’s most popular annual events, including National Hunt, Ladies’ Day, Christmas Jumper Raceday, and evening meets. Most popular of all is the Heart of All England Maiden Hunters’ Chase, hosted in late April or early May.

Travel and parking

The racecourse is a 7-minute drive from the town centre. Hexham Racecourse offers plenty of free parking — use the postcode NE46 2JP. 

Where to stay

Why not turn your day out into a weekend break? There are plenty of places to stay in Hexham, from cosy inns and B&Bs to boutique hotels.

Places to eat and drink

As a lively market town, Hexham is home to many traditional pubs, independent eateries, and cafes. Take your pick for pre-race brunch or post-race celebrations. For food, head to Heart of Northumberland. For drinks, we recommend Mr Ant’s.

Things to do nearby

When you visit Hexham, don’t miss out on the plenty of free things to do in the area. Wander Hexham Abbey at sunset, browse the bustling Saturday farmer’s market, or take a stroll along the River Tyne.

Running and Marathons at Kielder

Kielder hosts a variety of family-friendly and professional running events throughout the year, including “Britain’s Most Beautiful Marathon”.

Set in the scenic surroundings of Kielder Water & Forest Park, it’s the perfect spot for UK runners to strap up their laces and hit the ground running across lakeside viewpoints and forest trails.

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Upcoming events

If you’re looking for Northumberland running events, there are plenty at Kielder throughout the year, including marathons, half marathons, gravel duathlons, 10k races, and junior races.

Travel and parking

There are dedicated car parks available near all race start points and a free shuttle bus service for runners to and from the car parks, with your race number acting as your ticket. You can also hop on a dedicated return bus service from Newcastle Central Station for £12 per person.

Where to stay

When you visit Kielder, you’ll need somewhere to rest after your running event. Kielder Village is the most popular nearby location, offering a variety of quaint, budget-friendly accommodation options.

Places to eat and drink

Head to The Anglers Arms (previously named The Kielder Tavern) for hearty bar meals made with local produce, as well as a variety of bar snacks and drinks. We recommend their hand-cut double-cooked chunky chips.

Things to do nearby

You won’t be without things to do in Kielder. Enjoy the breathtaking scenes of Kielder forest walks, go to Kielder Observatory to view the largest dark sky park in Europe, or learn about the local wildlife at Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre.

Northumberland Rugby Events

Northumberland is proud to have a thriving rugby community, with clubs including Ponteland RFC, Tynedale RFC, Morpeth RFC, and Alnwick Rugby Club. These venues host league matches and training programmes as well as family-friendly events throughout the year.

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Upcoming events

In Northumberland, Rugby Union season runs from September to May, with Rugby League running from February to October. Visit each club’s website to find league games, club matches, junior rugby tournaments, and family-fun open days. 

Travel and parking

You can find parking available at the following postcodes and areas near to each club:

• Alnwick Rugby Club: Alnwick Rugby Football Club is a 20-minute walk from Alnwick Town Centre, and there is also parking available on Weavers Way and the surrounding residential roads. There are also plenty of town centre car parks.
  
  

• Morpeth RFC: On-site parking is limited. We recommend heading to one of the many town centre car parks to avoid traffic.
  
  

• Ponteland RFC: Free, all-day parking available at the Ponteland Leisure Centre complex (NE20 9EG).
  
  

• Tynedale RFC: Parking available on-site (NE45 5AY).

Where to stay

Whether you visit Morpeth, Alnwick, Corbridge, or Ponteland, each area offers a variety of self-catered and catered accommodation options, ranging from hotels and traditional Northumberland B&Bs to guesthouses and inns.

Places to eat and drink

Each town offers a huge selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants perfect for pre- and post-match food. If you want the full, authentic Northumberland rugby experience, head into the clubhouse of your chosen venue.

Things to do nearby

From riverside walks in Corbridge and Ponteland to the heritage attractions in Morpeth and Alnwick, each rugby club is surrounded by activities for all ages and abilities.

Cricket Events in Northumberland

If you’re visiting Northumberland in summer or are an avid follower of the Northumberland Cricket League, these are the best places to grab a cooling beverage, watch from the boundary, and enjoy the game.

Alnwick Cricket Club

Alnwick Cricket Club (founded in 1837) is one of the county’s most historic and beautiful grounds. 

Upcoming events

The cricket season runs from April to September, with indoor training beginning in February and outdoor training twice a week during the season. Visit the club’s website for upcoming Northumberland Cricket League fixtures.

Travel and parking

Alnwick Cricket Club is a 20-minute walk from Alnwick Town Centre, and there is also parking available on Weavers Way and the surrounding residential roads. There are also plenty of town centre car parks.

Where to stay

With this characterful town as your base, there are plenty of places to stay in Alnwick. Take your pick from luxury hotels, cosy guesthouses, and comfortable B&Bs close to the town centre and grounds.

Places to eat and drink

When you visit Alnwick, you’ll soon realise it’s a treasured spot for foodies. Don’t miss out on a visit to Dirty Bottles, Adam and Eve, and Sonnet Restaurant. For special occasions, it has to be The Treehouse Restaurant.

Things to do nearby

Alnwick may be small, but there’s plenty to do. Explore Alnwick Castle’s historic grounds, peruse the perfectly landscaped gardens, go on a few scenic Alnwick walks, or enjoy the streets lined with independent bookshops, gift shops, and more.

Ashington Cricket Club

Ashington Cricket Club has a proud local following and is an excellent place to watch or play competitive cricket. In fact, Ashington has produced some incredible cricketers, including Steve Harmison and Mark Wood.

Upcoming events

Ashington Cricket Club welcomes all levels and ages and holds junior training on Friday evenings from 6pm to 7:30pm for £4 per session. For more information about upcoming events and Ashington Cricket Club fixtures, check out their website.

Travel and parking

The cricket club is a 2-minute walk from Ashington train station, and a short walk or drive from the town centre. It is extremely accessible with parking available on nearby residential streets.

Where to stay

From local hotels and self-catering cottages to holiday parks, there are many accommodation options available.

Places to eat and drink

Ashington is home to many types of bars and eateries. Head to Old Ash Dene for a hearty post-game meal or visit The Grand Station Lounge for a variety of delectable cocktails.

Things to do nearby

From coastal walks and Tuesday markets to nature-spotting at Wansbeck Riverside Country Park, there’s plenty to do and explore around Ashington. Find out more about the best places to visit near Ashington.

Warkworth Cricket Club

If you’re looking for a quaint village cricket experience, Warkworth is where you’ll find it. When you visit Warkworth, you’ll realise that this historic village is small, but its character and history make it the perfect location for watching or playing cricket on a warm summer’s afternoon.

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Upcoming events

To find out the dates of upcoming Warkworth Cricket Club fixtures, head over to the club’s website, where you can find more information about league matches, events, and seasonal competitions.

Travel and parking

A short walk from Warkworth Castle, Warkworth Cricket Club is easily accessible. There’s plenty of parking available around the village and on residential roads, too.

Where to stay

Take your pick from a variety of nearby B&Bs, hotels, inns, and self-catering cottages. This Northumberland location is a historical treasure trove, so there are plenty of places to stay in Warkworth.

Places to eat and drink

Known for its friendly community feel, you’ll always be able to find a spot to wet your whistle and fill your belly. Head to Bertram’s for filling sandwiches and brunch, or the Masons Arms for a hearty evening meal with drinks.

Things to do nearby

You can’t visit Warkworth without exploring the stunning Warkworth Castle. Once you’ve learnt about the history of the village, head down Castle Street to peruse the inns, gift shops, and art galleries. The medieval Warkworth Hermitage also offers an exciting day out, since it is only accessible via the River Coquet.

Northumberland Football League Events

Football fans rejoice! Northumberland is home to many football clubs, including:

• Bedlington Terriers FC
  
  

• Berwick Rangers FC
  
  

• Blyth Spartans FC
  
  

• Hexham FC
  
  

• Morpeth Town FC
  
  

Attendees can expect up-close action and friendly, supportive match environments, perfect for learning what goes on behind the scenes in the Northumberland Football League.

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Upcoming events

Northumberland’s football season typically runs from mid-August to mid-May with a Christmas break in the middle. All clubs host regular league fixtures, cup matches, and community events throughout the season, so make sure to check each club’s website for more information.

Travel and parking

• Bedlington Terriers FC: Visitors can find the grounds just a 13-minute walk from the town centre. Alternatively, buses X21 and 2 stop a short walk away from the grounds. Parking is available on the surrounding streets.
  
  

• Berwick Rangers FC: Games are hosted at Shielfield Park, a 25-minute walk from the town centre. Buses 60, 67, 267, 464, X15, X18, and B1 also go towards the grounds.
  
  

• Blyth Spartans FC: The football grounds are a 13-minute walk from Blyth’s Market Street, and parking can be found on the streets surrounding Croft Park. You can also take the X7, X8, X30, or 309 Cobalt & Coast buses from the town centre.
  
  

• Hexham FC: Limited on-site parking is available for fans at NE46 1TP.
  
  

• Morpeth Town FC: The football grounds are a 30-minute bus ride or 9-minute drive away from the town centre. Visitors can take the X14, X15, X166, or X18, with parking available on nearby streets like Stanley Terrace and Whalebone Lane.

Where to stay

• Bedlington: If you’re visiting Bedlington, we recommend staying in nearby Morpeth or Blyth. Both of which have plenty of accommodation options and are just an 18-minute drive away.
  
  

• Berwick-upon-Tweed: From wigwams and holiday cottages to dog-friendly guest houses, you won’t be without accommodation choices when you visit Berwick-upon-Tweed.
  
  

• Blyth: In Blyth, you can choose from cosy inns and luxury spa hotels to waterfront guest houses and holiday parks.
  
  

• Hexham: Hexham is home to many friendly Northumberland hotels, local inns, and B&Bs. Take your pick, and make the most of your break away in Northumberland.
  
  

• Morpeth: For a spot of countryside charm when you visit Morpeth, book a place at one of the area's many charming B&Bs and hotels.

Places to eat and drink

• Bedlington: Head to the highly rated and recommended La Torre Italian Restaurant for food, or The Clayton Arms for a refreshing post-match pint.
  
  

• Berwick-upon-Tweed: For brunch and coffee, go to The Lookout on the River Tweed Cafe. For dinner, Atelier for Italian cuisine. For a variety of drinks and bar snacks, The Curfew Micropub.
  
  

• Blyth: Perfect for post-match seaside dining, head to Breeze Lounge or The Olive Tree for delicious food and drinks.
  
  

• Hexham: Head to one of Hexham’s traditional Northumbrian pubs like The Tannery or The Globe Inn for that all-encompassing community feel.
  
  

• Morpeth: Stop off in the highly recommended Barluga for food, cocktails, and desserts.

Things to do nearby

• Bedlington: As an ancient market town, Bedlington holds a weekly market on Thursdays and has a few independent shops.
  
  

• Berwick-upon-Tweed: There are plenty of historical sites and walks around Berwick-upon-Tweed for history lovers. Visit the ruins of Berwick Castle and the preserved Berwick Elizabethan Town Walls, or spend the day exploring the Berwick Barracks and museums.
  
  

• Blyth: Explore Blyth and take advantage of this port town’s striking beaches, piers, and coastal walking routes.
  
  

• Hexham: Step back in time to explore the historic sites of Hexham Abbey and Hexham Old Gaol. If you have time, head out to the nearby Roman ruins that lie along Hadrian’s Wall. They’re not to be missed!
  
  

• Morpeth: From the William Turner Garden and the woodland lanes of Carlisle Park to the countless independent shops lining the stylish high street, there’s always something to do in Morpeth. Don’t miss out on the monthly Morpeth Farmers’ Market for local produce and unique gifts.
  
  

Plan your next sporting day out with Visit Northumberland

As you can see, Northumberland has a packed and varied sporting calendar suited to all ages, hobbies, and interests. Look beyond the scenic beauty, and you’ll find towns and villages filled with community spirit and a fierce love for sports.

Keep an eye out for upcoming Northumberland events, and plan your visit to Northumberland today.