Things to do in Northumberland?
Northumberland is a strikingly beautiful county situated in northeast England. It’s home to many attractions that will keep you busy throughout your visit. There’s something for everyone, from history to wildlife, beaches to castles. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Northumberland.
Explore Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most prominent landmarks in the UK. It’s an iconic Roman ruin that stretches some 73 miles across Northumberland and Cumbria. The wall was built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD and was once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.
Walking along the wall is a fantastic way to explore Northumberland’s countryside. There are several trails along the wall, ranging from easy to challenging. The Hadrian’s Wall Path is a long-distance footpath that follows the wall’s entire length. It’s a 84-mile trail that takes around six to seven days to complete. Alternatively, you could take a shorter walk and explore some of the wall’s most famous sites, such as Sycamore Gap and Housesteads Roman Fort.
Visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens
Alnwick Castle is one of the most famous castles in England, and it’s not hard to see why. The castle is spectacular, with towering turrets and a rich history that dates back over 900 years. The castle has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Blackadder.
The castle’s grounds are equally impressive. The Alnwick Garden is a multi-award-winning garden that features a stunning water feature, the Grand Cascade, which is the largest water feature of its kind in the UK. There are also several other gardens to explore, including the Rose Garden, the Poison Garden, and the Bamboo Labyrinth.
Watch the Seals at the Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are a group of small islands situated off the Northumberland coast. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, puffins, and terns. The best way to explore the Farne Islands is by taking a boat trip from Seahouses Harbour.
One of the main attractions of the Farne Islands is the seal colony. The islands are home to both grey seals and common seals, and visitors can watch these fascinating creatures from a safe distance. The seals are incredibly curious and playful, and they often approach the boat to say hello. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
Discover Northumberland’s Beaches
Northumberland is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches. The county’s coastline stretches over 30 miles, from Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north to Amble in the south. There are several beaches to explore, each with its own character and charm.
Bamburgh Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Northumberland, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a long stretch of golden sand, backed by sand dunes and the imposing Bamburgh Castle. The beach is perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
Embleton Bay is another stunning beach, with pristine white sand and clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for a beach walk or a picnic, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try your hand at surfing.
Final Thoughts
Northumberland is a beautiful and diverse county, with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to Northumberland and discover all this wonderful county has to offer?