The northernmost and least populated county in England is Northumberland. It shares borders with Scotland, Cumbria, Tyne and Wear, and Durham. Northumberland, the ancient capital of England, is also home to several of the nation’s most significant historical buildings.
These also include the densest concentration of castles anywhere. It also has many breathtaking natural settings, including long coasts, deep woods, and pastoral hillsides. The number of activities and places to visit in Northumberland is boundless. So, we decided to list our top recommendations to ensure you see the area’s greatest parts.
1. Places to Visit in Northumberland
Northumberland is home to more castles than any other county in England. So why not explore great strongholds, spend the night in a haunted castle with eerie grounds, or see a medieval ruin?
There are amazing places to visit in Northumberland. Some of them are listed below. Bring your friends and family along and have a great time.
1.1. Alnwick Castle- (The Castle Where Harry Potter Was Filmed)
Want to witness your favorite Harry Potter school? Alnwick Castle is worth visiting if you love the great movie.
Alnwick Castle is a famous medieval fortress located around 85 miles from Edinburgh. It is a well-liked tourist destination in Northumberland. It is also one of the top castles to see in England.
Alnwick Castle was constructed in the 11th century as a Norman fortification. It is now the home of the present Duke of Northumberland and the second-largest inhabited castle in England.
If this castle looks familiar, that’s because sequences from the Harry Potter films were filmed here. This breathtaking location was used for filming in Harry Potter, the Philosopher’s Stone, and the Chamber of Secrets.
The Alnwick Castle is a great spot for a family day in Northumberland. It is a place where you can learn about medieval history. Online reservations are also available for Alnwick Castle.
1.2. Northumberland National Park
The northernmost national park in England is Northumberland National Park. It has a surface area of around 1,050 square kilometres. Northumberland National Park is heaven for all nature lovers. It is marked by the clearest skies and beautiful crystal-like water bodies.
The Northumberland National Park is a genuinely amazing location. It is filled with stunning valleys, Roman ruins, spectacular waterfalls, and lush meadows. Some of England’s pristine rivers, clearest air, darkest skies and outstanding natural beauty are found in this magnificent region of Northumberland.
1.3. Holy Island Of Lindisfarne Castle
If you adore historic sites, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne Castle must be on your list when you visit Northumberland. Lindisfarne, or Holy Island, is located offshore the Northumberland coast. It is situated beside the Scottish border and is only reachable when the tide permits. This park dates back to the 12th century. The place also has a 16th-century castle that towers over a grassy cliff.
1.4. Bam Burgh Castle
Bam Burgh Castle is one of England’s most significant historic sites. The beautiful Bam Burgh Castle has been situated on the Northumberland coast for more than 1,400 years. It is one of the best places to visit in Northumberland and is also a short drive from Sea Houses.
The interior of Bamburgh Castle is over 1400 years old and equally majestic. It features magnificent rooms, ancient artwork, and even a museum. If you’re an early riser, it is a great spot to watch the sunrise!
1.5. Dunstan Burgh Castle
The beginning of the 14th century saw the construction of Dunstanburgh Castle. Now, one of Northumberland’s most famous tourist attractions is this place. It is also just an hour’s easy walk away from the beautiful fishing village of Craster.
The twin-towered keep offers spectacular views along the coast toward Bamburgh Castle, arguably the most unique preserved structure. However, the best ideas are from afar when approaching Dunstanburgh via the coastal footpath.
Check out the seabird colony and towering cliffs behind the castle while you tour it. It’s a lovely place for a picnic and offers unending ocean views.
1.6. Alnmouth
Alnmouth is a charming seaside village situated between the River Aln and a golden sand beach. It used to be a busy commercial port many years ago, but it’s now a fairly calm place with many attractions.
Along with the art museum and gift shops, visitors also adore the excellent selection of independent eateries. It also has historic taverns and charming tea places. Although the long, wide, and stunning sandy beach is a major attraction, families can spend the day at Alnmouth Beach as well.
It is also a well-liked but not overly busy location. This is a genuinely great spot to visit! You may stroll along the miles of coastline, go cycling, watch the sunsets, or look into the biggest Dark Sky Park.
1.7. Hex Ham Abbey
If you are curious about Northumberland’s history during Roman times, then Hexham Abbey is worth visiting. The first purpose-built prison in England was constructed in Hexham in 1330–1333. It is Located south of Hadrian’s Wall.
The Hex Ham is a historic market town in Northumberland. Built in AD474, Hex Ham Abbey is the main attraction of the town. The old monastery’s crypt still exists and contains numerous stones from nearby Roman times.
Hex Ham Abbey may be the crown jewel, but the town is equally worth exploring. Take a stroll through Hex Ham’s numerous galleries before you leave.
1.8. Northumberland Coast
The Northumberland Coastal Path runs through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Britain. It extends from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north.
You are surely going to love everything this place has to offer. From scenic sunsets to outstanding coastal areas, you will get it all in this place.
Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous 40 miles of shoreline in Northumberland. This breathtaking stretch of northern beaches includes two of Northumberland’s National Nature Reserves. Like Newton-by-the-Sea and Amble, you’ll find charming fishing communities along the shore. In Sea Houses, you can purchase some of the best fish and chips in the nation.
1.9. Morpeth
Morpeth is a historic town and a unique place where each street offers something fresh. You’ll have the opportunity to shop at the distinctive and different stores scattered across the city.
The place is located offshore of River Wansbeck, North England. It is amongst the best historic towns to explore in Northumberland.
They have a culinary festival in October where you can indulge in a wide selection of regional cuisine and entertainment. Morpeth also has a special blend of legacy, style, and history that’s hard to match!
1.10. Howick Hall & Gardens
The Earl Grey lives in Howick Hall, where the tea with that name was first produced. Visit the nursery and gardens before retiring to the Earl Grey Tea House. It is only open to guests of the Hall.
About the Place
Pour yourself a cup of the 2nd Earl Grey tea, specifically mixed with a Chinese mandarin to complement the spring water at Howick.
3. Best Time to Visit Northumberland
During winter, the days are relatively shorter, and the temperature is its coolest. However, in summer, the days are at their longest, with most days in the season being mild to warm, with the possibility of a few infrequently hotter days.
In autumn, at the beginning of September, the weather might be rather good. But it can get progressively colder by October and November.
Thus, spring is an excellent season to travel to Northumberland. It is because it provides an option for traveling during the height of summer.
4. Wrapping Up
So, to have a fun vacation and explore more options, you should visit Northumberland. Above are the best places to visit in Northumberland. Choose your good-to-go destinations and enjoy them to the fullest!
Last Updated on July 8, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty
