Welcome to Northumberland
Explore England's most northerly county.
Home to England's cleanest rivers, clearest airs and also named as a Dark Skies Park, Northumberland is a great location for a staycation. Choose from wandering along Hadrian's Wall in the Northumberland National Park to visiting the pretty towns of Alnwick and Berwick during your stay in the north east.
YHA hostels in Northumberland
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Things to do in Northumberland
Five free things to do
The Sill
While we might be slightly biased given that we have an amazing hostel which forms part of The Sill, the UK’s National Landscape Discovery Centre, it really is a super facility designed to showcase and educate people about the wonders of the Northumberland National Park. With cafes and interactive zones, it’s ideal for a family day out, plus it's just a stone’s throw away from Hadrian’s Wall.
Holy Island of Lindisfarne
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a unique territory separated from the mainland by the Holy Island Causeway. Its most focal point is Lindisfarne Castle, as well as the remains of Lindisfarne Priory with its famous rainbow bridge. Be quick though, tides mean that the island is cut off from the mainland twice a day.
Bamburgh Castle
Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England, owing to its turbulent past as a border county. Perhaps most famous and impressive is Bamburgh Castle, given its epic beachside location. Admission will cost, but for many, the castle is best enjoyed from the outside for free – it’s stunning!
Beaches
Northumberland’s coastline is littered with over 30 miles of beaches, many of which are beautifully unspoilt, quiet and picturesque. Whilst the North Sea isn’t quite the Caribbean so wouldn’t be a number one choice for sunbathing, Northumberland’s beaches are ideal for walking, kite flying and all round family fun time!
The Lowry Trail
Lowry, one of Britain’s most renowned 20th century artists, holidayed in Northumberland during his later years, and had a particular penchant for Berwick-upon-Tweed. Take a trip around the town, taking in some of the scenes which inspired his paintings.
Explore the history of Northumberland
With some stunning unspoilt coastline, awe-inspiring historical castles and some of the most beautiful dark skies that the UK has to offer, Northumberland is perfect for family holidays and relaxing getaways alike. Adventure seekers will be rewarded for the trip north-eastwards too, with plenty of hikes, mountain bike trails and water sports opportunities for outdoors enthusiasts to enjoy.
England’s northernmost county, Northumberland is home to a number of places of interest, including Alnwick, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Bamburgh and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Plus, with Newcastle and the border with Scotland just a short distance away, there’s no shortage of options to explore.
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Allendale Forge Studios
A co-operative group of volunteers, producers, artists and makers promoting small businesses and the beautiful North Pennines landscape through the Allendale Forge Studios Art and Craft Centre. Vis
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Alnwick Castle
Tour the castle and enjoy fascinating stories from the past. Children can step into the world of a medieval knight or pretend to be witches and wizards as they stroll the corridors.
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Bailiffgate Museum
The people and places of north Northumberland are brought to life here in lively, interactive style.
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Bamburgh Castle
Explore 14 public areas, learn more about the castle and watch history being uncovered during archaeological excavations. Sample Northumberland produce from the tea rooms. Visit the castle's
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Barter Books
Barter Books is one of the largest second hand bookshops in Britain. Considered a local tourist attraction, Barter Books is a book shop situated in an old train station.
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Chillingham Castle
This ancient and remarkable fortress has alarming dungeons and torture chambers, as well as the beautiful parklands and gardens. It is reputed to be Britain's most Haunted Historic Castle!
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Climbing in Wooler
Some of the best rocks, crags and sandstone faces in the UK can be found in Glendale, the area around Wooler. One of the most challenging climbs in the area, the Bowden Doors, is steep and techn
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Climbing near Alnwick
Simonside (near Rothbury) has three fine crags, the northern scarps of the moors to the north of Rothbury offer brilliant climbing. Further west are Sandy Crag, Linshiels, The Drakestone and Sou
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Cragside House and Gardens
The home of Victorian inventor and landscape genius Lord Armstrong. Crammed full of ingenious gadgets, and the first house to be lit by hydro-electricity. Visit the National Trust website page
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Cycling in Ninebanks
The Allen Valleys provide distinctive landscapes with great cycling routes.
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Derwent Reservoir
The Derwent Valley, one of the Durham Dales, is sometimes overlooked. This man-made lake is great for sailing and fishing. Explore Derwent Reservoir
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Hexham Old Gaol
The oldest purpose built prison in England, Hexham Old Gaol will give you an insight into crime and punishment in medieval Northumberland. Visit the Gaol website
View some of our popular Northumberland blogs
Discovering the Northumberland’s Cheviot Hills
At the top of Northumberland National Park, the Cheviot Hills hug the North Eastern Scottish border, taking in views over the North Sea. The Cheviots are characterised by rolling moorland peaks...
Our lovely landscapes
There are 39 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) in Wales and England, all of which have their own distinct character. Here’s why these regions are an essential part of our landscape...
Fascinating heritage sites in the UK
From the ancient ruins of Whitby Abbey to the 73-mile-long Hadrian’s Wall, Britain has plenty heritage hotspots full of beauty and historic importance. We are proud to be part of the Heritage Alliance...