Best Attractions Near Dunstanburgh Castle
Planning a trip to Dunstanburgh Castle? Discover the best attractions nearby with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions near Dunstanburgh Castle
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66 attractions
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Castle4.7★15,011 reviews
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle stands proudly on a volcanic outcrop overlooking the Northumberland coastline, offering visitors a rich tapestry of history spanning over 3,000 years. This iconic fortress, once the seat of Anglo-Saxon kings, features grand staterooms, medieval architecture, and breathtaking sea views. Open year-round, it combines heritage, stunning landscapes, and engaging events for all ages.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Castle4.5★13,079 reviews
Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle, located in Northumberland, England, is one of the largest inhabited castles in the UK and the historic seat of the Dukes of Northumberland. With over 950 years of history, the castle boasts magnificent medieval architecture, lavish State Rooms, and extensive grounds featuring gardens, courtyards, and museums. Famous as a filming location for the Harry Potter films, it offers a rich blend of history, culture, and magical experiences including broomstick flying lessons and falconry displays.
Daily 10:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Garden4.6★10,064 reviews
The Alnwick Garden
The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland is a spectacular modern garden blending innovative design with rich horticultural diversity. Created in 2001 by the Duchess of Northumberland, it features iconic attractions like the Grand Cascade waterfall, the unique Poison Garden with its toxic plants, the serene Rose Garden, and the UK's largest Japanese Cherry Orchard. The garden offers interactive water sculptures, family-friendly play areas, and seasonal events, making it a captivating destination for all ages.
Thu–Sun 10:00–15:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Book Shop4.7★8,064 reviews
Barter Books
Barter Books, housed in the beautifully preserved Victorian Alnwick Station, is one of Britain’s largest secondhand bookshops. Offering over 350,000 titles across countless genres, it invites visitors to browse in cozy reading corners warmed by roaring fireplaces. The shop features a charming café in the old waiting room and a unique Writers Gallery mural showcasing life-size portraits of literary greats. This quirky cultural gem blends history, literature, and community in a captivating setting.
Daily 9:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.8★6,551 reviews
National Trust - Cragside
Cragside, located near Rothbury in Northumberland, is a National Trust estate famed as the first house powered by hydroelectricity. Once home to Victorian inventor Lord William Armstrong, this striking property combines pioneering technology, Arts and Crafts architecture, and expansive gardens with over 40 miles of woodland and lakeside walks. Visitors can explore the historic house, vast rock and formal gardens, family-friendly play areas, and scenic carriage drives amid breathtaking Northumberland landscapes.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
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Nature reserve4.8★6,120 reviews
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
The Northumberland Coast National Landscape is a stunning 60-mile coastal strip in northeast England, renowned for its dramatic beaches, rolling dunes, ancient castles, and rich wildlife. This protected area offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, featuring sandy shores, rocky cliffs, and important seabird sanctuaries like the Farne Islands and Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling, watersports, and stargazing in one of Britain’s most tranquil and unspoiled coastal environments.
Time to spend 1–8 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.6★3,786 reviews
Amble Harbour Village
Amble Harbour Village is a vibrant coastal destination in Northumberland, England, known for its picturesque harbour, lively market, and welcoming community. This charming village offers fresh seafood, quaint shops, and a variety of cafes and pubs, making it an ideal spot for exploring the Northumberland coastline and enjoying local culture.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Castle4.6★3,548 reviews
Warkworth Castle
Perched above the River Coquet in Northumberland, Warkworth Castle is a striking medieval fortress renowned for its massive cross-shaped Great Tower, rich history with the powerful Percy family, and scenic riverside hermitage. Visitors explore extensive ruins, intricate heraldry, and panoramic views, immersing themselves in centuries of Anglo-Scottish border conflicts and noble intrigue.
Sat–Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Zoo4.6★2,957 reviews
Northumberland Zoo
Northumberland Zoo, located at Eshottheugh Farm near Morpeth, is a family-run, non-profit wildlife park home to over 80 species, including rare and endangered animals like snow leopards and Livingstone's fruit bats. Open daily with seasonal hours, it offers immersive keeper talks, interactive exhibits such as Lemur Woods and Wallaby Walkabout, and a café, making it an engaging destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Country park4.7★2,835 reviews
Druridge Bay Country Park
Druridge Bay Country Park in Northumberland is a scenic coastal park featuring a large freshwater lake, woodlands, and three miles of sandy beach and dunes. It offers diverse wildlife, watersports, family-friendly amenities including a visitor centre, café, and play area, plus historical remnants from WWII. Ideal for walking, birdwatching, and water activities, it blends natural beauty with rich heritage in a tranquil setting.
Mon–Fri 10:00–16:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–16:00Price level $Time to spend 1–5 hrs
Lindisfarne Castle
Perched atop a volcanic crag on Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle is a striking Tudor fort transformed into an Edwardian holiday home by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors panoramic views of the North Sea, unique Arts & Crafts interiors, and access to historic gardens and nearby lime kilns. The castle’s location on a tidal island requires careful attention to causeway crossing times, adding to its remote charm and dramatic setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Dunstanburgh Castle
Dunstanburgh Castle, perched on a dramatic Northumberland headland, is a striking 14th-century fortress ruin surrounded by rugged coastline and scenic walking trails. Built by Earl Thomas of Lancaster in 1313, the castle's twin-towered gatehouse and vast curtain walls offer panoramic views of the North Sea. Accessible via a scenic 1.3-mile coastal walk from Craster village, this historic site combines medieval architecture, fascinating history, and abundant wildlife, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Woodhorn Museum
Woodhorn Museum, located in QEII Country Park, Ashington, celebrates Northumberland’s rich mining heritage through immersive exhibitions, historic pit buildings, and the renowned Ashington Group Collection of artworks known as the ‘Pitmen Painters’. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it offers interactive displays, contemporary arts, a café, and family-friendly amenities, making it a vibrant cultural hub in a former colliery site.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Chillingham Castle
Chillingham Castle is a 13th-century fortress near Alnwick, Northumberland, renowned for its rich medieval history, atmospheric state rooms, and reputation as one of Britain's most haunted castles. Visitors explore its torture chambers, dungeons, and extensive gardens, experiencing a blend of historical intrigue and paranormal allure in a setting that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Daily 11:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Berwick Boat Trips
Berwick Boat Trips offers memorable river and sea excursions from the Quayside in Berwick-upon-Tweed, showcasing the scenic River Tweed estuary and North Sea coastline. Operated by a family-run company, these tours provide engaging commentary on local history and wildlife, including sightings of seals, dolphins, and seabirds. The cruises offer a unique perspective of Berwick’s iconic bridges and fortifications, blending natural beauty with rich heritage in a relaxed, accessible setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–1.5 hrs
Holy Island
Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, is a small tidal island off the Northumberland coast near Berwick-upon-Tweed, England. Accessible only at low tide via a causeway, it is famed for its ancient Lindisfarne Priory ruins, medieval castle, and serene coastal landscapes. Rich in Celtic Christian history and natural beauty, the island offers tranquil beaches, wildlife watching, quaint village life, and a unique atmosphere shaped by its tidal rhythms and spiritual heritage.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
Beadnell Bay Beach
Beadnell Bay Beach in Northumberland is a stunning crescent of golden sand stretching over two miles, known for its peaceful atmosphere, west-facing harbor, and gentle shallow waters. Ideal for families, dog walkers, and water sports enthusiasts, it offers easy access, nearby cafes, and historic limekilns. The beach is a protected habitat for rare terns and a Blue Flag award winner, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and seaside relaxation.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
National Trust - Farne Islands
The Farne Islands, managed by the National Trust, are a remarkable cluster of islands off the coast of Seahouses, Northumberland. Famous for their vibrant seabird colonies including puffins, Arctic terns, and guillemots, as well as a large grey seal population, the islands offer unforgettable wildlife encounters. Visitors can enjoy boat tours and landing trips during the breeding season, exploring historic sites like St Cuthbert's Chapel and Grace Darling's lighthouse. This protected nature reserve is a sanctuary of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre
Nestled on the Northumberland coast, Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre is a remarkable nature reserve featuring an eco-friendly straw-bale building, diverse habitats, and excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Visitors can explore accessible trails, multiple bird hides, and enjoy the Lookout Café, all while experiencing a vibrant sanctuary for birds, red squirrels, otters, and more.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
Stretching across tidal mudflats, saltmarshes and dunes around Holy Island, Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and a place of quiet beauty. The reserve supports vast flocks of wintering waterfowl, wading birds, and grey seals, while its shifting sands and tides create a constantly changing seascape. A self-guided nature trail leads through dunes and along the shore, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot rare birds and wildflowers. Respect seasonal access rules and keep to paths to protect this fragile coastal habitat.
Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum, located near Alnwick in Northumberland, is a historic estate featuring 65 acres of diverse gardens and a vast arboretum with over 11,000 trees and shrubs. The gardens include a sensory garden, bog garden, rockery, and woodland garden, alongside marked walking trails leading to the scenic nearby coast. Visitors can enjoy the Earl Grey Tea House and explore the rich heritage of the Grey family, custodians of the estate since 1319.
Daily 10:30–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Etal Castle
Etal Castle, built in the mid-14th century by Robert Manners, is a small but strategically important medieval fortress located in the village of Etal near the River Till in Northumberland. Originally constructed to defend against Scottish raids, it features a tower house, gatehouse, curtain walls, and corner towers. The castle played a role in historic border conflicts, including the Battle of Flodden in 1513, before falling into disrepair after the union of the English and Scottish crowns in 1603. Today, it offers a scenic heritage site ideal for family visits.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
The RNLI Grace Darling Museum in Bamburgh commemorates the heroic 1838 sea rescue by Grace Darling and her father. Set near Bamburgh Castle, it houses the original coble boat used in the rescue, personal artifacts, letters, and exhibits on maritime lifesaving history. Open seasonally with volunteer staff, the museum offers a poignant insight into Victorian bravery and the enduring legacy of Grace Darling’s courage.
Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street
Co-op Food on Main Street in Seahouses is a well-established convenience store offering a wide range of groceries and essentials. Open daily from early morning until late evening, it serves locals and visitors alike with friendly service and a convenient location in the heart of Seahouses village.
Mon–Sat 7:00–22:00 · Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden
Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden is a whimsical, immersive play village nestled within the renowned Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, UK. Designed for children aged 11 and under but enchanting for all ages, it features nine clans devoted to Christmas, ruled by Lord Elfwin. Visitors explore interactive clan houses, giant play structures, and seasonal storytelling, all set in a magical environment that blends imagination with nature.
Daily 9:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Amble Beach Huts On Little Shore
Nestled along the scenic Northumberland coast, Amble Beach Huts on Little Shore offer a charming seaside retreat with picturesque harbour views, inviting sandy beaches, and quaint huts available for hire. This peaceful spot is perfect for families and visitors seeking a relaxed beach atmosphere, fresh local seafood, and opportunities for coastal walks and picnics. Seasonal dog access and nearby small businesses enhance the welcoming, laid-back vibe.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Cragside Formal Garden
Cragside Formal Garden, part of the renowned Cragside estate near Morpeth, Northumberland, offers a beautifully tiered Victorian garden set amidst stunning natural landscapes. Known for its vibrant flower displays, manicured lawns, and historic features like the Italian Terrace and Gothic Clock Tower, the garden invites visitors to explore its three levels connected by elegant stairways. This tranquil garden complements the wider Cragside estate, famed for its pioneering hydroelectric house and extensive woodlands.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Edlingham Castle
Edlingham Castle is a small, atmospheric ruin of a 14th-century fortified manor house nestled in the scenic Northumberland countryside near Alnwick. Free to visit year-round during daylight hours, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life with its prominent solar tower, curtain walls, and moated hall house remains. Adjacent to the castle stands the historic 11th-century St John the Baptist Church, adding to the site’s rich heritage and tranquil setting.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Brinkburn Priory and Manor House
Nestled in a scenic loop of the River Coquet near Longframlington, Brinkburn Priory is a stunningly restored 12th-century Augustinian priory church showcasing early English Gothic architecture. Accompanied by the ruins of a manor house built on former monastic buildings, the site offers tranquil woodland walks, exquisite stained glass windows, and a glimpse into medieval monastic life. Open seasonally with guided tours, it is a hidden heritage treasure in Northumberland.
Wed–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
St Cuthbert's Cave
Nestled in the Kyloe Hills near Belford, St Cuthbert's Cave is a natural sandstone outcrop steeped in medieval legend and spiritual significance. This overhanging rock formation, supported by a single natural pillar, is traditionally associated with Saint Cuthbert, the 7th-century Anglo-Saxon monk and hermit. According to legend, the cave sheltered either Cuthbert himself during his hermitic years or the monks of Lindisfarne fleeing Viking raids with their saint's body in 875 AD. Managed by the National Trust since 1981, the site offers a gentle woodland walk through the Northumberland countryside, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a tangible connection to early Christian history.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Warkworth Beach
Warkworth Beach is a broad, sandy beach located near Morpeth in Northumberland, England. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, it offers free parking, public toilets, and picnic areas. The beach is ideal for long walks, beachcombing, and enjoying scenic views of the North Sea, with dunes and open skies creating a peaceful coastal escape.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Linhope Spout Waterfall
Linhope Spout is a stunning 18-metre waterfall nestled in the Cheviot Hills of Northumberland National Park. This dramatic cascade plunges into a deep, clear pool surrounded by woodland, making it a perfect spot for picnics and wild swimming in summer. The area is rich in wildlife, including elusive red squirrels, and lies within the International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional night sky views. The scenic 3.2-mile walk to the falls features rolling hills and breathtaking landscapes.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Asda Ashington Superstore
Asda Ashington Superstore, located at Portland Park, Lintonville Terrace, is a comprehensive retail hub offering groceries, pharmacy services, a cafe, clothing, and a petrol station. Open daily with extended hours, it serves the Ashington community with a wide variety of products and convenient services, including cashpoints and currency exchange, making it a one-stop destination for everyday needs.
Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
Preston Tower is a well-preserved medieval pele tower nestled in over 600 acres of rolling Northumberland countryside near Chathill. This historic landmark offers visitors a unique glimpse into border country history, surrounded by picturesque gardens and grounds that provide a charming setting for weddings and events. Open daily from 9am to 6pm, it combines heritage, scenic beauty, and a tranquil rural atmosphere.
Daily 9:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Duddo Five Stones
The Duddo Five Stones are a prehistoric stone circle located near Duddo, Northumberland, close to the Scottish border. Dating from the Early Bronze Age around 4,000 years ago, this circle originally consisted of seven sandstone standing stones, now five remain. The site offers panoramic views of the Cheviot and Lammermuir Hills and is steeped in local legend and archaeological significance, attracting visitors who appreciate its mysterious ancient atmosphere and scenic rural setting.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Bailiffgate Museum
Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery in Alnwick is an award-winning, family-friendly museum housed in a historic former church near Alnwick Castle. It offers engaging exhibits covering 10,000 years of local history across two floors, with a changing exhibition gallery on the third floor. The museum features interactive displays and a children’s trail, making it ideal for visitors of all ages interested in the rich heritage of Alnwick and Northumberland.
Tue–Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 11:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Alnwick Market
Alnwick Market, located in the heart of Market Place, Alnwick, is a vibrant traditional market offering a rich variety of local produce, crafts, and goods. Operating mainly on Thursdays and Saturdays, it serves as a lively gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, showcasing Northumberland’s artisanal heritage and fresh regional products in a charming historic town setting.
Thu 10:00–16:00 · Sat 9:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery, located within the historic Berwick Barracks, offers a rich exploration of Berwick-upon-Tweed's turbulent medieval past alongside an impressive collection of ceramics and artworks from the Burrell Collection. The museum features interactive exhibits, temporary displays, and a charming recreation of the old town, making it a cultural highlight in Northumberland.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Lindisfarne Heritage Centre
The Lindisfarne Heritage Centre, located on Holy Island’s Marygate, offers an immersive journey into the island’s profound religious and cultural history. Featuring exhibitions on the Lindisfarne Gospels, Viking raids, local wildlife, and island life, it is owned and run by the Holy Island community. Open seasonally with tide-dependent hours, the centre combines interactive displays, a gift shop with local crafts, and a visitor information point, making it an essential stop for exploring this unique tidal island.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Northumbrian Gifts
Northumbrian Gifts, located in Ashington's Ashwood Business Park, offers a curated selection of beers, artisan spirits, and unique gift hampers inspired by Northumberland’s rich heritage. This family-run shop specializes in handpicked local produce and festive gifts, making it a prime destination for those seeking authentic regional flavors and distinctive presents. Open weekdays from 8am to 4pm, it combines traditional charm with a welcoming atmosphere.
Mon–Fri 8:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Hauxley Nature Reserve
Hauxley Nature Reserve, managed by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, is a diverse wildlife haven on the Northumberland coast near Morpeth. Originally a former opencast mine, it now features wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, attracting over 140 bird species annually as well as mammals like red squirrels and otters. The eco-friendly Wildlife Discovery Centre offers accessible trails, hides, a café, and a rich program of events, making it a top destination for nature lovers and families.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Longstone Lighthouse
Longstone Lighthouse, perched on Longstone Rock in the Farne Islands off Northumberland’s coast, is a historic 19th-century lighthouse famed for the 1838 daring rescue by Grace Darling. Built in 1826, it remains an active beacon guiding ships through treacherous waters. Visitors can explore the lighthouse interior, learn about its maritime history, and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding islands and wildlife.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lady Waterford Hall
Lady Waterford Hall in Ford, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, is a Grade II* listed former Victorian village school renowned for its unique Pre-Raphaelite murals painted by Louisa Anne, Marchioness of Waterford. Built in 1860, the hall served as a school until 1957 and now functions as a village hall and heritage museum, showcasing life-size biblical murals created over 21 years. Visitors can explore this artistic treasure, reflecting the social history and spirit of the local community.
Daily 11:00–16:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Harbottle Castle
Harbottle Castle is a ruined 12th-century medieval castle located in the village of Harbottle, Northumberland, England. Built around 1160 by the Umfraville family at King Henry II's request, it served as a strategic defense against Scottish incursions. Today, visitors can explore its atmospheric earthworks and masonry ruins, enjoy tranquil surroundings, and take in scenic views of the River Coquet valley. Entry is free, making it a peaceful historical site for leisurely walks and exploration.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
The Drake Stone
The Drake Stone is a colossal glacial erratic sandstone boulder weighing around 2,000 tons, perched atop a ridge in Northumberland National Park near Harbottle. This ancient natural monument offers breathtaking 360-degree views over the surrounding countryside, including Harbottle village, Harbottle Lake, and the ruins of Harbottle Castle. Accessible by a moderate walk featuring some steep inclines, it is steeped in local legend and historical significance, making it a captivating destination for walkers and nature lovers.
Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Fannies Emporium Antique Centre
Fannies Emporium Antique Centre in Morpeth is a vast, vibrant hub of antiques and curiosities housed in a stunning historic building. Open daily, it offers an extensive range of high-quality vintage and antique items from numerous dealers, with a welcoming atmosphere and dog-friendly policy. Visitors can explore diverse collections, from fine art glass to unique furniture, making it a must-visit destination for collectors and casual browsers alike.
Mon–Sat 9:00–16:00 · Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Hulne Priory
Hulne Priory, founded in 1240 near Alnwick, Northumberland, is the earliest and best-preserved Carmelite friary in England. Set within the expansive, walled Hulne Park, the priory’s atmospheric ruins include a defensive pele tower and stone friar statues. The site, rich in medieval history and cinematic fame, offers tranquil exploration in a natural parkland setting with Gothic Revival features nearby.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Holy Island
Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, is a small tidal island off Northumberland’s coast in northeast England. Accessible only at low tide via a causeway, it is famed for its rich early Christian heritage, including the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle. The island is also a vibrant nature reserve, home to diverse wildlife and a small local community, offering visitors a unique blend of spiritual history, scenic beauty, and tranquil coastal landscapes.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
Northumberland Coast Path
The Northumberland Coast Path is a spectacular 62-mile hiking trail along England’s northeastern coastline, stretching from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north. It offers walkers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, expansive sandy beaches, and historic castles such as Warkworth, Dunstanburgh, and Bamburgh. The path passes through charming fishing villages and nature reserves, providing a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 5–8 hrs
Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are a stunning archipelago of 15 to 20 rocky islands located off the coast of Northumberland, England. Owned by the National Trust, these islands are renowned for their dramatic cliffs, rich wildlife including large colonies of seabirds and Atlantic grey seals, and historical links to saints and lighthouse keepers. Visitors can experience spectacular wildlife viewing, historic lighthouses, and the tranquil natural beauty of this protected marine reserve.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Gefrin
Ad Gefrin, located near Yeavering in Northumberland, is the site of a remarkable 7th-century Anglo-Saxon royal palace complex. Once the summer residence of Northumbrian kings and queens, it played a pivotal role in early medieval history, including the first Christian conversions in northern England. Excavated in the mid-20th century, the site reveals timber halls, a unique wooden grandstand, and support buildings, now preserved and interpreted by the Gefrin Trust.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Beaches
Alnmouth Beach is a stunning three-section sandy beach at the mouth of the River Aln in Northumberland, England, set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This dog-friendly, family-oriented beach features golden sand backed by protective dunes, historic World War II concrete defences, and sweeping views across the estuary. The tranquil village of Alnmouth, with its distinctive pastel-coloured houses, sits behind the beach and offers shops, cafes, and pubs within easy walking distance.
Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
The Stepping Stones
The Stepping Stones is a charming Victorian townhouse bed and breakfast located in the heart of Morpeth, Northumberland. Situated near the scenic River Wansbeck, it offers guests a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with original architectural features and modern comforts. With easy access to local shops, restaurants, and historic sites, it’s an ideal base for exploring this historic market town.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lordenshaw Hill Fort
Lordenshaw Hill Fort is a remarkably well-preserved Iron Age hillfort located within Northumberland National Park near Morpeth. Dating back around 2,000 years, this circular fort features double ramparts, defensive ditches, and remains of stone roundhouses. Surrounded by prehistoric rock art and burial cairns, it offers visitors a glimpse into ancient community life amid tranquil, scenic landscapes at the foot of the Simonside Hills.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
Simonside Hills
The Simonside Hills, located near Morpeth in Northumberland, offer a rugged and scenic escape with a distinctive sandstone ridge rising to 430 meters. Renowned for sweeping 360-degree views stretching from the Cheviot Hills to the North Sea coast, the area is rich in wildlife including curlews, red grouse, and red squirrels. Popular for hiking, the hills feature marked trails through dense forests and craggy heights, with historical sites like Little Church Rock adding cultural depth.
Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Sugar Sands
Sugar Sands is a tranquil, sheltered beach nestled between Boulmer and Howick near Longhoughton, Northumberland. Known for its fine white sand and rocky outcrops, it offers a Mediterranean-like vibe on sunny days. Accessible by foot or car via Longhoughton, this peaceful spot is ideal for coastal walks, nature appreciation, and quiet beach days away from crowds.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Co-op Food - Newbiggin Central - Front Street
Co-op Food at 85-87 Front Street in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea is a conveniently located convenience store offering a broad range of everyday groceries and essentials. Open daily from 7am to 10pm, it serves locals and visitors alike with a welcoming atmosphere and a solid selection of products, making it a reliable spot for quick shopping needs in the town centre.
Daily 7:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 15–45 min
Davidson's Linn
Davidson's Linn is a scenic double waterfall nestled within the Northumberland National Park near Alwinton, Morpeth. Surrounded by dense forest and rugged terrain, it offers a tranquil, natural retreat for hikers and nature lovers. The waterfall features a main drop of around 4-5 metres with smaller cascades above, creating a picturesque and peaceful setting. Access requires a moderate hike through forest paths and open land, rewarding visitors with stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Northumberland coastal path
The Northumberland Coast Path is a spectacular 100-kilometer (62-mile) long-distance trail along England’s rugged northeastern coastline. Stretching from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed near the Scottish border, it offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, rocky headlands, historic castles, and charming fishing villages. This medium-difficulty hiking route showcases dramatic coastal scenery, abundant wildlife reserves, and cultural heritage sites, making it a premier destination for walkers and nature lovers.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 3–72 hrs
Ford & Etal Estates
Ford & Etal Estates in Northumberland offer a captivating blend of rich history, scenic rural landscapes, and charming village life near Berwick-upon-Tweed. Visitors can explore historic castles, quaint villages, and enjoy peaceful countryside walks, with welcoming accommodations such as cozy B&Bs and holiday cottages on the estate. The estates provide a serene escape with a strong sense of heritage and natural beauty.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
Coquet Island
Coquet Island is a small, 6-hectare island located just 1.2 km off Amble on the Northumberland coast. Managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), it is a vital seabird sanctuary hosting the UK’s largest colony of Roseate Terns alongside puffins, Arctic, common, and Sandwich terns. Landing is prohibited to protect its wildlife, but boat tours from Amble offer close-up views of its vibrant birdlife and grey seal colony.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Heritage Walks Northumberland
Heritage Walks Northumberland offers informal, friendly guided walks through the picturesque landscapes of Northumberland. These half-day walks reveal hidden historical stories, unusual objects, and beautiful views, suitable for all ages and walking levels. Led by an experienced guide, each walk blends local heritage with the region’s natural charm, providing a unique way to explore Northumberland’s countryside and history.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 3–4.5 hrs
Woodhouses Bastle House
Woodhouses Bastle House, located in Northumberland National Park near Harbottle, is a well-preserved 17th-century fortified farmhouse. Built to protect its occupants and livestock from Border Reiver raids, this bastle features thick stone walls, a secure ground floor for animals, and living quarters above. Restored in the late 20th century, it offers a glimpse into the turbulent history of the Anglo-Scottish border region.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
North Wames
North Wames is a remote and rugged part of the Farne Islands, located off the Northumberland coast in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its spectacular seabird colonies and rich marine life, it offers visitors a pristine natural environment ideal for wildlife observation and coastal exploration. The area is a protected sanctuary, celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, abundant puffins, seals, and other sea birds, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Sundial
Located in the charming coastal town of Amble, Northumberland, the Sundial stands as one of Europe’s largest and most precise gnomons, towering 7 metres high. This remarkable landmark not only tells time with an accuracy of within 15 seconds but also serves as a cultural beacon, reflecting Amble’s maritime heritage and community spirit. Surrounded by scenic views of the North Sea and the bustling harbour village, the Sundial offers visitors a unique blend of history, art, and coastal ambiance.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Chillingham Castle
A formidable 13th-century fortress in Northumberland, England, Chillingham Castle stands as one of Britain's most haunted and historically significant medieval strongholds. Built originally as a monastery and transformed into a strategic border defense, the castle remained in the Grey family for 800 years. Today, visitors explore lavish state rooms, a notorious torture chamber, atmospheric dungeons, and beautifully landscaped gardens while experiencing the castle's legendary paranormal activity. The castle's eclectic interior, filled with antiques and historical artifacts, offers an authentic glimpse into medieval and aristocratic life.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
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Dunstanburgh Castle travel guide
Explore the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, a majestic 14th-century fortress overlooking the wild Northumberland coast.
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