Attractions and Places To See in Northumberland - Top 20

Northumberland offers a wealth of natural beauty. You can visit the Simonside Summit for panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills and the Northumbrian coastline. The Cheviot Summit, the highest point in Northumberland National Park, also provides extensive views, even reaching the Lake District and Edinburgh on clear days. Other notable natural features include the dramatic landscapes around Steel Rigg and Hadrian's Wall, and the iconic Sycamore Gap.

Northumberland is rich in history, particularly its castles and Roman heritage. You can explore the impressive Alnwick Castle, known as the 'Windsor of the North' and a filming location for Harry Potter. Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically on the coast, is another must-see. Other significant castles include Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island, the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, and Warkworth Castle. For Roman history, Hadrian's Wall offers dramatic stretches, including sites like Housesteads Roman Fort, Vindolanda, and Chesters Roman Fort.

Yes, Northumberland is home to some of the most well-preserved and dramatic sections of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key Roman sites include Steel Rigg and Hadrian's Wall, where the wall utilizes natural cliff faces for defense. You can also visit Housesteads Roman Fort, Vindolanda, Chesters Roman Fort, and Corbridge Roman Town, which was the most northerly town in the Roman Empire.

Beyond its natural and historical landmarks, Northumberland has several cultural gems. The Lindisfarne Priory on Holy Island is a significant site for early English Christianity. Hexham Abbey showcases Anglo-Saxon history and Roman artifacts. The Woodhorn Museum captures the area's mining history, and Barter Books in Alnwick is one of Britain's largest second-hand bookshops, located in an old Victorian railway station.

Northumberland offers a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels. Popular options include the Simonside and Lordenshaws Trail, and sections of the iconic Hadrian's Wall Path. For those seeking a challenge, the Cheviot Horseshoe Fell Race loop provides a demanding route. You can find more details on various routes in the Hiking in Northumberland guide.

Yes, Northumberland has several easy walking trails. The Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Walk from Bellingham is an accessible option. You can also enjoy easier sections of Hadrian's Wall, such as the Steel Rigg & Hadrian's Wall Walk or the Steel Rigg & Sycamore Gap loop. The River Walk at Wallington is another gentle option. Explore more easy routes in the Easy hikes in Northumberland guide.

Northumberland offers many attractions suitable for families. Alnwick Castle provides broomstick training and tours highlighting Harry Potter filming locations. The Alnwick Gardens feature unique landscapes and the world's largest Tai Haku Cherry Orchard. The Ford and Etal Estates offer a blend of history and rural life, including Ford Castle and the Heatherslaw Light Railway. The Seaton Sluice Harbour is also a pleasant spot for families.

Absolutely. Northumberland is home to the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, which encompasses Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water and Forest Park. This gold-tier status park offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing, including at Kielder Observatory, and even a chance to see the Aurora Borealis.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Farne Islands are a must-visit. This cluster of islands off the coast is a haven for seabirds like puffins and guillemots, as well as grey seal colonies. Boat trips are available from Seahouses to experience the abundant nature. The Simonside Hills area, a Special Area of Conservation, is also home to curlews, red grouse, wild goats, and red squirrels.

The best time to visit Northumberland largely depends on your interests. Spring and summer (April to September) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for hiking, exploring castles, and coastal activities. This is also when seabirds are most active on the Farne Islands. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in the national park, and cooler temperatures for walking. Winter can be cold but offers unique opportunities for stargazing in the Dark Sky Park and fewer crowds at popular attractions.

Northumberland offers several unique experiences. You can visit Cragside, the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity, showcasing Victorian ingenuity. Explore the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, accessible only at low tide via a causeway, to see Lindisfarne Castle and Priory. For a literary treat, browse Barter Books in Alnwick, one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Britain. The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park also provides unparalleled stargazing opportunities.

Yes, Northumberland boasts a stunning coastline with numerous attractions. The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) features dramatic cliffs, long sandy beaches, and hidden coves. Bamburgh Castle is dramatically perched overlooking the coast. Lindisfarne Castle and Priory are located on Holy Island, accessible by causeway. Seahouses is a perfect stop for fish and chips and a starting point for boat trips to the Farne Islands. You can also visit the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, the northernmost town in England, known for its Elizabethan-era fortifications.