Northumberland: England's Hidden Gem
Discover Northumberland: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming villages in England's northernmost county.
Northumberland, located in the northernmost part of England, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and charming villages. It's known for its stunning landscapes, including vast stretches of unspoiled coastline, rolling hills, and the Northumberland National Park. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, cycling, and stargazing due to its Dark Sky status. History buffs will find plenty to explore, from the iconic Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the impressive Alnwick Castle, which has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows. The county is also home to numerous ancient castles, abbeys, and fortresses, each telling a story of Northumberland's rich and tumultuous past. The charming market towns and quaint villages are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a glimpse into local life with their traditional pubs, independent shops, and local festivals. Don't miss the picturesque town of Alnwick, known for its beautiful gardens and vibrant arts scene. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the tranquility of rural England, Northumberland has something to offer every traveler.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Northumberland.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the many hiking trails and historical sites.
- Visit during spring or summer for the best weather and vibrant local festivals.
- Take advantage of the Dark Sky status in Northumberland National Park for exceptional stargazing opportunities.
- Try local delicacies like Craster kippers and Northumberland cheese in traditional pubs.
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like Alnwick Castle, especially during peak tourist season.
Northumberland: England's Hidden Gem
Northumberland, located in the northernmost part of England, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and charming villages. It's known for its stunning landscapes, including vast stretches of unspoiled coastline, rolling hills, and the Northumberland National Park. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, cycling, and stargazing due to its Dark Sky status. History buffs will find plenty to explore, from the iconic Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the impressive Alnwick Castle, which has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows. The county is also home to numerous ancient castles, abbeys, and fortresses, each telling a story of Northumberland's rich and tumultuous past. The charming market towns and quaint villages are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a glimpse into local life with their traditional pubs, independent shops, and local festivals. Don't miss the picturesque town of Alnwick, known for its beautiful gardens and vibrant arts scene. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the tranquility of rural England, Northumberland has something to offer every traveler.
Explore the best of what Northumberland has to offer
When is the best time to go to Northumberland?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alnwick Castle
Medieval fortress, aristocratic grandeur, and Harry Potter magic converge at this 950-year-old castle.
Lanercost Priory
Medieval Augustinian priory where kings sheltered and history unfolded amid Scottish raids and monastic devotion.
Sycamore Gap
Discover the dramatic Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall, a historic and scenic landmark famed for its iconic tree and breathtaking landscapes.
Winter's Gibbet
Explore the haunting site of Winter's Gibbet, a stark relic of 18th-century justice and local legend in Northumberland's moorlands.
Coxon's Tower
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel on Berwick's historic ramparts, offering rich history and stunning views over the River Tweed estuary.
Lady's Well
Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
Brunton Turret - Hadrian's Wall
A 2,000-year-old Roman watchtower standing sentinel on Hadrian's Wall, free to explore year-round.
The Drake Stone
An ancient glacial boulder steeped in legend, offering sweeping moorland vistas from Northumberland's highest natural viewpoint.
Morpeth Clock Tower
Historic medieval clock tower in Morpeth’s Market Place, famed for its ancient bells and enduring community heritage.
Hotspur Tower
Explore Hotspur Tower, Alnwick’s iconic 15th-century gateway steeped in medieval history and the legend of Harry Hotspur.
Hunkleton stone
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Salisbury House
Historic Salisbury House in Wallsend stands on ancient Roman fort grounds, bridging centuries of military and industrial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bamburgh Castle
Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.
The Alnwick Garden
Discover a visionary garden where water dances, poisonous plants tell stories, and nature blooms in Northumberland’s contemporary oasis.
Angel of the North
A towering steel angel with outstretched wings, symbolizing hope and transformation above Gateshead’s skyline.
Barter Books
Discover a treasure trove of secondhand books and literary charm in a historic Victorian station at Barter Books, Alnwick.
National Trust - Cragside
Discover Cragside, the Victorian inventor’s hydroelectric estate with grand gardens, woodland walks, and family adventures in Northumberland.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
Explore the wild beauty and rich heritage of England’s dramatic Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
Vindolanda
Explore Vindolanda, a captivating Roman fort and museum with live excavations, ancient writing tablets, and rich artefacts near Hadrian's Wall.
Warkworth Castle
Explore the majestic ruins and rich history of Warkworth Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning river and coastal views in Northumberland.
Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site
Explore Britain’s best-preserved Roman fort with panoramic views, ancient ruins, and immersive history on Hadrian’s Wall.
Northumberland National Park
Explore England’s wildest landscapes, ancient history, and tranquil beauty in Northumberland National Park’s vast and pristine wilderness.
Northumberland Zoo
Discover Northumberland Zoo’s family-run wildlife sanctuary with rare species, immersive keeper talks, and scenic rural charm near Morpeth.
Lindisfarne Castle
A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.
Jedburgh Abbey
Explore the majestic ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture steeped in medieval Scottish history.
Northumberlandia
Explore Northumberlandia, a monumental earth sculpture blending art, nature, and stunning countryside views near Cramlington.
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens
Explore a unique blend of Greek revival architecture, medieval castle ruins, and breathtaking Grade I listed gardens carved from an ancient quarry.
Essential places to dine
The Dirty Bottles
Historic Alnwick pub-inn where smokehouse feasts, craft pours, and quirky rooms fuel castle adventures in Northumberland's medieval heart.
The Fish Shack
Rustic seafood dining on Amble’s harbour, serving fresh local catch with stunning views and cozy charm.
The Treehouse Restaurant
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
Traditional Northumberland pub serving locally sourced steaks and ales in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Milan Restaurant
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.
The Black Bull Inn
Cozy Northumberland country inn blending pub vibes, hearty British dining, and luxury rooms in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty—perfect for relaxed escapes and local flavors.
JASPERS BISTRO
Intimate seafood dining in Amble offering fresh, locally sourced dishes with warm service and a cozy atmosphere.
Blenkinsopp Castle Inn - Bistro, Bar, Bed & Breakfast, Gardens
Historic charm and cozy hospitality meet in a scenic Northumberland inn set within the ancient stable block of Blenkinsopp Castle.
Adam and Eve
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Danielle's Bistro
Cozy family-run bistro blending Mediterranean and British flavors with generous portions and attentive service in the heart of Hexham.
Bistro 23
Charming family-run bistro in Alnmouth serving fresh, local Northumbrian dishes in a cozy, intimate setting by the coast.
The Coach House
Historic British charm and hearty cuisine nestled in the tranquil deer park of Otterburn Hall estate.
Restaurant Hjem
A Michelin-starred Scandinavian-inspired tasting menu in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country, blending local Northumbrian ingredients with Nordic precision.
Pine
Discover Pine, a Michelin-starred gem near Hadrian's Wall, where inventive tasting menus and local ingredients create an unforgettable fine dining experience.
Restaurant Italia
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Alnmouth’s charming seaside village, nestled within the welcoming Hope & Anchor Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sanderson Arcade
A vibrant shopping centre in Morpeth blending popular brands with unique local boutiques and a welcoming atmosphere.
Otterburn Mill Shop and Café, Otterburn
Historic mill shop and cozy café nestled in Northumberland’s scenic Otterburn, blending outdoor gear, homemade food, and tranquil picnic grounds.
Willowburn Retail Park
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Farne Gifts
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
For the Love of the North
Discover Northern England’s spirit through locally crafted gifts and unique souvenirs at Whitley Bay’s charming boutique.
Fine & Sandy
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Fine & Sandy, a charming boutique on Tynemouth’s vibrant Front Street.
Robinson's
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury
Discover quality walking apparel at Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury’s trusted destination for outdoor clothing in Northumberland’s scenic market town.
White Stuff Morpeth
Discover stylish, quality clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Morpeth, where fashion meets friendly service in a charming market town setting.
Raggy Dolls Limited
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
Marilyn & Melrose
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Drift
Discover Drift, a family-run coastal gift shop in Seahouses offering unique yarns and craft goodies inspired by Northumberland’s seaside charm.
Jane & Harry
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
North Shore Gifts
Discover handmade jewellery and unique coastal gifts at North Shore Gifts, a welcoming boutique celebrating Northumberland’s artisanal spirit.
