LIttle girl having fun on Bamburgh Beach

Northumberland Summer What's On Guide

What's on this summer
There’s no better place to be than Northumberland this summer. From getting your ‘vitamin sea’ at the coast to festivals, outdoor events and more, this vibrant county is filled with events, attractions, and activities for all the family.

There’s no better place to be than Northumberland this summer. From getting your ‘vitamin sea’ at the coast to festivals, outdoor events and more, this vibrant county is filled with events, attractions, and activities for all the family. 

Want to know what’s on in Northumberland in the coming weeks? Read on and find out.

Events in Northumberland: What’s on this summer?

Northumberland is one of the most exciting counties in the UK, brimming with historic castles, vibrant towns and breathtaking beaches. And there's so much going on that everyone's welcome to visit Northumberland events this summer. Here's our pick of what's going on this year.

The Gaderung

Sunday 3 August 2025 10am - 5pm | Ad Gefrin, NE71 6NJ

The Gaderung, presented by Ad Gefrin and Local Heroes in partnership with Visit Northumberland, is a free, one-day celebration of the region’s land, people, and traditions. Inspired by the Anglo-Saxon Lammas festival, this harvest gathering features an artisan market showcasing local food, drink, and crafts, from Northumberland honey to Lindisfarne oysters. Enjoy a vibrant lineup of music and storytelling, with performances from Ruby Kelly, Elizabeth Liddle, Coled Lore, Hannah Graham, and Jimi Dingwall. Join us for a day of food, culture, and community in the heart of Northumberland. Free ticketed entry – click here to book.

The Dinky Dub Fest

Friday 25 - Sunday 27 July | Noon, Fri / 9am, Sat | Druridge Bay Country Park, NE61 5BX

Dinky Dub Fest returns to its original home at Druridge Bay Country Park from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 July for a laid-back weekend of live music, lakeside views, and beachside vibes. With bands playing across Friday and Saturday evenings, and access to water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking (bring your own or hire on-site), it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and fun in a stunning setting. More details coming soon.

Ahoy at The Castle

Saturday 19 July - Sunday 31 August 2025 | 10am - 3pm | Bamburgh Castle, NE69 7DF

Ahoy, young adventurers! Head to Bamburgh Castle this summer to join Cap’n Izzy Biggus-Bottom and Cap’n Polly No-Beard as you test your pirate skills—hoist anchors, fire cannon balls, hook treasure, and walk the plank! If you can whack a rat, dance the sailor’s hornpipe, and loot some booty, you might just earn your place in the crew. This outdoor children's activity is included with admission and takes place on select dates in July and August (weather permitting). If the weather turns, indoor fun awaits—just follow the signs after your State Room tour. And don’t miss more pirate adventures beyond the gift shop—follow the skull and crossbones!

Sci-Fi Monsters Exhibition: Seek, Locate, Restore!

Monday 14 July - Saturday 6 September 2025 | 10am – 4pm | Queen's Hall, Hexham, NE46 3LS 

Step into the world of sci-fi this summer at Queen’s Hall, Hexham, with a fascinating exhibition celebrating Neil Cole, founder of The Museum of Classic Sci-Fi in Allendale. For over 25 years, Neil has collected and restored props, costumes, and production pieces from iconic films and TV shows. This special exhibition showcases highlights from his collection—many newly restored—alongside award-winning video installations that reveal the meticulous craft behind his work and honour the legacy of the genre’s most imaginative creators.

More summer events in Northumberland

Come Play ft. TV's Taskmaster at Belsay Hall | 19 Jul - 31 Aug 2025

The Stick Man Trail at Kielder Forest | Sat 19 Jul - Sun 31 Aug

Brewery Tour and Tasting, First and Last Brewery | Sat 19 Jul & Sat 6 Sept

Battlesteads Beer Festival | Thurs 24 Jul - Sun 27 Jul 

Corbridge Chamber Music Festival | Thurs 24 Jul - Sun 27 Jul

The Greatest Showman Outdoor Cinema Sing-A-Long | Thur 31 Jul

Festival of Archaeology at Yeavering | Fri 1 Aug

Northumberlandia Food and Craft Market | Sun 3 Aug

Knights’ Tournament at Warkworth Castle | Tue 29 - Wed 30 Jul & Tue 12 - Wed 13 Aug

Derwent Fest | Fri 15 - Sat 16 Aug

The Potted Lobster Pop-Up - Alnwick Brewery | Fri 15 - Sat 16 Aug

The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck Outdoor Theatre | Thur 21 Aug

Jack and the Beanstalk Storytelling | Thur 21 Aug

Great North Bike Ride | Sun 24 August 2024

Glendale Show | Mon 25 August 2024

North East Dog Festival | Saturday 30 - Sunday 31 August

 

Take a look at our Northumberland events calendar

No matter what kind of activities you’re looking for, Northumberland has plenty to explore this summer.  From romantic ruined castles to pop-up gin bars and family-friendly festivals to some of the most demanding cycling in the country, it doesn't get any better than sunshine-filled events in our incredible county. Whether you looking for a day out with the family, free things to do, or a day trip on a budget, Northumberland has it all.

Want to know more? Take a look at our Visit Northumberland Events Calendar today and start planning your getaway.

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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