If watching Robson Green's Weekend Escapes has inspired you to discover Northumberland for yourself, why not try these great days out included in our Northumberland guide? No matter if you're looking for free days out, weekends making memories with the kids or dog-friendly attractions to visit in Northumberland, there's something to suit every budget in our region, from spring adventures, winter walks and autumnal days out.
Best free days out in Northumberland
We love a free day out, and we are sure that you will too.
There are so many days out to enjoy in Northumberland, where you don't need to spend anything to enjoy our beautiful region.
Coast and Countryside Walks
From picture perfect beaches to rolling green hills and magical forests, Northumberland has so many amazing destinations to go walking or hiking. All you need is a pair of walking shoes to go on a fantastic and free adventure. From short walks along some of the most iconic beaches in the North East, including Bamburgh and Beadnell, to longer walking routes through the beautiful Northumberland countryside, there are so many walking routes to choose from, like the spectacular woodland trails of Plessey and Thrunton Woods.
Step Foot into Fairytale Villages
Discover the magic of Northumberland by exploring the beautiful villages and towns scattered across the region, from the historic town of Alnwick to the quaint and coastal villages and towns of Craster, Amble and Warkworth. Feel like you are stepping foot onto a film set as you explore the cosy cottages, cobbled streets and historic buildings that make up some of Northumberland’s most iconic destinations.
See the Stars
Continue your free day out into the evening, and take in the breathtaking dark skies above Northumberland. The region is one of the best places to stargaze, recognised as an International Dark Sky Park. Whether you’re camping with the kids looking up at the night sky trying to spot the Milky Way from the Northumberland National Park, or you are getting away from it all with a romantic break enjoying a relaxing evening under thousands of stars, Northumberland is the perfect spot for anyone to stargaze.
Best budget days out with the kids in Northumberland
Finding exciting and adventurous kids' days out in Northumberland is easy. Here's our pick of the best days out with kids that won't break the bank.
Hire a bike
There's no better way to get to know the stunning Northumberland countryside than by bike. From the Coast and Castles Route and cycling along Hadrian’s Wall, there are so many cycling adventures for the whole family to enjoy in Northumberland.
Pedal Power has road, mountain bikes, child bikes and more for hire starting from only £8.00 for a child’s half-day hire. They'll match your hire bike to your ability and even deliver to your holiday cottage.
Explore amazing castles
Northumberland is home to some incredible castles. And even if you’ve never been to the North East, you’ll recognise Alnwick and Bamburgh Castles from movies including Harry Potter, Transformers and Indiana Jones. Why not invest in a family ticket for one of the best days out in Northumberland?
Alnwick Castle is brimming with drama, history and intrigue, and the kids will have fun spotting their favourite film locations, brushing up on their flying skills or battling the castle dragon. A day at Alnwick is among the best Northumberland kids' days out.
Magnificent Bamburgh Castle is the country's finest coastal fortress and is instantly recognisable from TV and film. The nine acres of castle grounds are dog-friendly and wheelchair accessible, and their Last Kingdom experience is not to be missed.
Enjoy some Wild Intrigue
There are many great days out with the kids in Northumberland, but Wild Intrigue is one of the best.
This small-scale social enterprise offers a fantastic range of intriguing wildlife events, from bat safaris and osprey cruises to playing Nature Rangers for the day or enjoying mythical beasts and gourmet wild dining. Book today and enjoy Wild Intrigue's incredible days out in Northumberland's wide open spaces.
Experience Hadrian’s Wall at Vindolanda
Vindolanda was occupied for 300 years and is now a world-class archaeological museum telling the story of the Romans in Britain. Explore hidden gems, experience a live dig or enrol in Roman Soldier school and learn about life in the Roman Army first-hand.
With year-round events and family tickets available to explore the entire site, this Northumberland kids’ day out won’t disappoint.
Waterfalls, sculptures and elves at The Alnwick Garden
Brimming with magic, mystery and mischief, the Alnwick Garden is an extraordinary contemporary garden full of imagination and fun — and one of the most enjoyable days out with kids in Northumberland.
Book a family ticket and explore the spell-binding water sculptures of the Serpents Garden and the intrigue of the infamous Poison Garden. Dine in the biggest treehouse in the world, and visit the fantasy world of Lilidorei, a magical elvish village and the biggest play structure ever made.
Push the boat out with the best days out in Northumberland
Northumberland isn't just for families. Are you a National Trust or English Heritage member? If so, you can enjoy some of the most interesting and educational days out in the UK with visits to the holy island of Lindisfarne, the Baroque masterpiece Seaton Delaval Hall and the idyllic Farne Islands. Follow in the footsteps of film stars or try one of Robson Green’s wellness weekends for yourself.
Ford & Etal Estates
If unearthing hidden gems and historical heritage is more your style, try one of our favourite Northumberland days out at Ford and Etal Estates near the Scottish border. Enjoy a ride on England’s most northerly steam train at Heatherslaw Steam Light Railway, a leisurely hack on horseback or canoeing with otters on the River Till.
History buffs can walk the battlefield at Flodden Field, then head for Northumberland's only thatched pub, the Black Bull, for great food and local beer.
Ad Gefrin
Celebrate the Golden Age of Northumbria with kings, queens, whisky and Anglo-Saxon hospitality at Ad Gefrin. You can enjoy one of the most immersive days out in Northumberland, including exploring the great hall, the museum, distillery, and finally dine in the bistro, where the chef puts the spotlight on incredible local produce.
This unique site also showcases the old Northumbrian craft of whisky distilling. So while you step back into the 7th-century royal court, why not book an unforgettable single-malt whisky tasting as part of a weekend break?
Enjoy the best days out with Visit Northumberland
No matter whether you’re looking for unique adventures or days out with the kids in Northumberland, we have endless experiences, places to stay and dining to suit every budget. So what are you waiting for? Visit Northumberland today.