Goodness only knows why more people don’t visit this stunning region of England… then again, for those that know and love it, perhaps that’s quite a good thing! With two areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Northumberland National Park, this ancient, beautiful landscape and coastline boasts more castles than anywhere else in England. Home of early Christianity in Britain, the Vikings first landed here, the Romans arrived, Hadrian built his famous wall, after which the mighty Norman Barons held the region in an iron clad fist.
This is a broad country with skies, beaches, castles and gardens all on an epic scale and all close to your Northumberland holiday cottage. Based in historic Bamburgh, delightful Alnwick, or fishing harbour at Seahouses, you’ll be ideally placed to enjoy all the activities and attractions far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Taking time out to slow down and relax, walkers, cyclists and horse riders love the Cheviot Hills, rugged North Pennines and breathtaking costal trails. Families love the wide spacious beaches, festivals and events. Add to all this bags of watersports, boat rides and battlements to explore, what better place to enjoy the perfect self catering holiday?
Spread the picnic blanket on one of the many wonderful beaches in Northumberland. Backed by awe inspiring fortresses and vast networks of dunes like that at Bamburgh, spend the day on the soft golden sand; your nearest neighbour could literally be miles away! Other favourite spots include Beadnell, Cresswell and Druridge Bay.
There’s plenty of ways to get out and about on the water. Take a trip on one of the many boat excursions to visit the Farne Islands. Learn about Grace Darling, the lighthouse keeper’s heroic daughter; watch the Atlantic Grey Seal colonies loll on the rocks or bob up by your boat and enjoy the fantastic bird watching where Puffins nest and Guillemots soar on the thermals. Riding, canoeing, sailing, walking and cycling, plus a host of other outdoor activities are all available a short distance from your holiday cottage.
If you enjoy exploring history, you’re in for a treat… Explore the World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall and visit the vast castle of Bamburgh. Enjoy mighty Alnwick Castle, filming location for Hogwarts School in Harry Potter, with its water garden and the world’s largest tree house. Walk to the romantic ruins of Dunstanburgh on its sea lashed promontory and experience epic Warkworth to name just a few, many with bags activities to keep all the family entertained.
More gentle pursuits where in mind on the inspiring Holy Island of Lindisfarne with its ancient priory and 16th century castle, all accessibly by a causeway revealed by the retreating tide twice a day. Big and little nature lovers can also enjoy some superb days out including Cresswell Pond Nature Reserve and Sanctuary Wildlife Care Centre near to Morpeth, plus all the fun of the fairs and festivals at Seahouses throughout the summer months.