Art
Northumberland is a region that beautifully blends natural landscapes with outdoor art, offering a unique cultural experience. The area boasts a number of impressive outdoor art installations that complement its rugged beauty, including sculptures, murals, and environmental artworks. A highlight is the Kielder Art and Architecture trail, which features site-specific pieces scattered throughout Kielder Forest, where art and nature seamlessly merge.
Castles & Forts
Northumberland is renowned for its impressive collection of castles and forts, many of which stand as striking testaments to the region’s turbulent history. The county is home to some of the most iconic and well-preserved medieval fortifications in England, including the majestic Bamburgh Castle, perched high above the coastline with commanding views of the North Sea. Further inland, Alnwick Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with its sprawling grounds and rich heritage, famously featured in the Harry Potter films.
Caves & Grottos
Northumberland is home to a variety of fascinating caves and grottoes that add an adventurous element to its diverse natural landscape. The region’s caves, such as those found at the famous sandstone cliffs of the Northumberland coast, offer glimpses into its ancient geological history. Notable sites include the beautiful and remote caves near Howick, where natural erosion has created intricate formations, and the caves at the base of the imposing sandstone outcrops in areas like the Simonside Hills.
Coastal Walks
Northumberland’s coastal walks offer a breathtaking journey through some of England’s most picturesque and unspoiled landscapes. Stretching along the North Sea, the Northumberland Coast is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring miles of golden sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and sweeping dunes. Walkers can enjoy iconic landmarks such as Bamburgh Castle perched dramatically above the shoreline, the serene Holy Island of Lindisfarne accessible via a tidal causeway, and the striking ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle overlooking the sea.
Crags, Rocks And Cairns
Northumberland’s crags, rocks, and cairns are a striking feature of its rugged landscapes, offering glimpses into both natural history and human endeavor. The crags, like those at Simonside and Hadrian’s Wall, are dramatic outcrops formed over millennia, providing panoramic views of rolling hills and moorlands. These rocky features are a haven for hikers and climbers, offering both challenging ascents and peaceful trails.
Forest Walks
Northumberland is home to a wealth of beautiful forest walks, where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Kielder Forest, the largest man-made forest in England, offers miles of scenic trails winding through dense woodlands, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife such as red squirrels, roe deer, and a variety of bird species. The forest is also dotted with picturesque lakes and viewpoints, making it a perfect destination for hiking, cycling, and even stargazing, as it is part of one of the darkest areas in the UK.
Gardens & Parks
Northumberland is home to a variety of stunning outdoor gardens and parks, offering visitors a chance to explore beautifully landscaped spaces amid breathtaking natural surroundings. Alnwick Garden, one of the most famous attractions in the region, boasts a range of features including its enchanting Poison Garden, water sculptures, and the world’s largest treehouse. Nearby, the expansive Cragside Estate, once home to the inventor Lord Armstrong, features beautifully manicured gardens set within a vast, rugged landscape.
Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches across Northumberland, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman history amidst some of the most stunning landscapes in England. This iconic structure, built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the wall, which cuts through the rugged hills and valleys of Northumberland, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Along the wall, several forts, milecastles, and watchtowers can be explored, with notable sites including Housesteads Fort and Vindolanda, where archaeological excavations continue to reveal fascinating insights into Roman life.
Hill Walks
Northumberland offers some of the most exhilarating outdoor hill walking experiences in the UK, with its rugged terrain and expansive vistas. The Cheviot Hills, located in the northern part of the county, provide a stunning backdrop for hikers seeking both challenge and beauty. The highest peak in the region, The Cheviot itself, stands at 815 meters and offers panoramic views across the surrounding hills and valleys. Not far from here, Hedgehope Hill, another prominent summit, provides a rewarding hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the lush valleys and distant coastlines.
River Walks
River walks in Northumberland offer a serene and scenic way to explore the county’s natural beauty, with many routes following the gentle flow of its picturesque rivers. The River Tweed, which forms part of the border with Scotland, is a popular destination for riverside walks, offering lush green banks, tranquil woodlands, and abundant wildlife. The walk along the River Coquet, which flows through the heart of Northumberland, provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with historical landmarks such as Warkworth Castle and the peaceful village of Rothbury enhancing the experience.
Stately Holmes
Northumberland is home to several stunning stately homes, each offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. One of the most famous is Alnwick Castle, a grand fortress that dates back to the 11th century and is still home to the Duke of Northumberland. With its impressive grounds and spectacular interiors, Alnwick Castle is a must-see, particularly for fans of the Harry Potter films, as it served as a filming location for Hogwarts. Another remarkable stately home is Cragside, an extraordinary Victorian mansion nestled in the Northumberland National Park.
Waterfalls
Northumberland is home to a number of stunning waterfalls, many of which are nestled in the county’s remote and rugged landscapes, making them a hidden gem for nature lovers. One of the most iconic is Hareshaw Linn, located in the peaceful surroundings of the Northumberland National Park near the village of Bellingham. This dramatic waterfall, cascading through a wooded gorge, is a popular spot for walkers, with a scenic trail leading through the forest to the falls. Another notable waterfall is the Chillingham Waterfall, found near the historic Chillingham Castle, which offers a tranquil setting and beautiful views.