Discover the top northumberland beauty spots, a natures paradise.
Northumberland is a region in the northeast of England that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife. From ancient castles and ruins to vast national parks and breathtaking coastlines, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore in Northumberland. As a holiday home owner or guest, you can take advantage of the region's popularity among tourists by offering or choosing comfortable and convenient accommodations to serve as your base for exploring these natural wonders.
Alnwick Castle and Gardens
Alnwick Castle and Gardens is one of the most iconic landmarks in Northumberland. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows. The gardens, which span over 42 acres, feature a stunning collection of fountains, waterfalls, and ornamental gardens, including a poison garden that is sure to intrigue visitors.
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 12 miles, then turn right onto Denwick Lane. Continue straight onto Bailiffgate, then turn right onto Narrowgate. Follow this road until you reach Alnwick Castle and Gardens.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is a striking medieval castle that sits atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea. From its perch, visitors can take in stunning views of the beach below and the surrounding coastline. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been restored to its former glory over the years.
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 12 miles, then turn right onto the B1342 towards Bamburgh. Follow the B1342 for approximately 3 miles, then turn right onto The Wynding. Continue straight onto Castle Terrace, then turn left onto Market Place. Follow this road until you reach Bamburgh Castle.
Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are a group of 28 islands off the coast of Northumberland that are home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours around the islands and spot puffins, seals, and numerous species of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. The islands also have a rich history, including the famous story of Grace Darling, who helped rescue survivors from a shipwreck in 1838.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/farne-islands
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 8 miles, then take the B1342 exit towards Seahouses. Follow the B1342 for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto Main Street. Continue straight until you reach the Seahouses Harbour, where you can find boat tours to the Farne Islands.
Holy Island of Lindisfarne
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a small tidal island off the coast of Northumberland that is steeped in history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, an important center of Christianity in the 7th century, and walk along the beautiful beaches that surround the island. The island is also home to a castle that was built in the 16th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 9 miles, then take the B1342 exit towards Belford. Follow the B1342 for approximately 5 miles, then turn right onto the B6353 towards Holy Island. Follow the B6353 until you reach the causeway that leads to Holy Island.
Kielder Water and Forest Park
Kielder Water and Forest Park is a vast nature reserve in Northumberland that offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The park is home to Kielder Water, the largest man-made lake in the UK, as well as the Kielder Forest, which is the largest planted forest in England. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and stargazing in the park, and there are also numerous cultural and historical attractions to explore.
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 36 miles, then turn left onto the B6320 towards Kielder Water. Follow the B6320 until you reach Kielder Water and Forest Park.
Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park is a vast protected area in Northumberland that is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. Visitors can explore the park's vast moorlands, hills, and forests, and spot wildlife such as otters, red squirrels, and golden eagles. There are also numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy, as well as cultural and historical attractions such as Hadrian's Wall.
www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 25 miles, then turn left onto the B6320 towards Rothbury. Follow the B6320 until you reach the Northumberland National Park.
Cragside
Cragside is a Victorian mansion located in the heart of Northumberland that was once the home of the inventor Lord Armstrong. The mansion is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests, and is famous for being the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectric power. Visitors can explore the mansion's elegant rooms and learn about Lord Armstrong's many inventions, as well as enjoy the park's beautiful trails and water features.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/cragside
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 22 miles, then turn left onto the B6344 towards Rothbury. Follow the B6344 until you reach Cragside.
Berwick-upon-Tweed
Berwick-upon-Tweed is a historic town located on the border between England and Scotland that has a rich and varied history. The town's walls and fortifications are a testament to its turbulent past, and visitors can explore its many museums and galleries to learn more about its fascinating heritage. Berwick is also home to a beautiful harbor and a range of cultural and entertainment attractions.
Directions from Whitley Bay: Head north on the A193 towards Seaton Delaval. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the A192 towards Morpeth. Follow the A192 for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto the A1 towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Follow the A1 for approximately 7 miles, then take the A1167 exit towards Tweedmouth. Follow the A1167 into Berwick-upon-Tweed
Conclusion:
Northumberland is a true paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and fascinating history. From the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the National Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a holiday home owner looking for the perfect location for your rental property, or a guest looking for an unforgettable vacation, Northumberland has everything you need to make your stay truly memorable. So why not plan your visit today and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer?