Things to Do
We're biased but we think Northumberland is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Here are our favourite things to do if you have a few days in the area.
History & landmarks
Sycamore Gap, Housesteads, and Steel Rigg are all within half an hour. Pack walking shoes and waterproofs, even in July.
Yes, Hogwarts. Brilliant for a full day out: castle, the famous gardens, the Treehouse restaurant. Also well worth a visit to Barter Books, the most amazing second-hand bookshop with brilliant cheese scones.
1,300-year-old abbey and a proper Saturday market. Great for a slow morning wander.
Eat, drink, wander
Forum Books: independent bookshop in a converted chapel, worth a browse even if you don't normally buy books. RE: to the left of the garage, amazing vintage finds, impossible to leave empty-handed.
The Tower (outside area and amazing inside), The Black Bull (good pub food) and The Angel for great people-watching. The Larder has a great deli and café upstairs; Grants is the one and only bakery and does a great pastry.
Easy stroll along the River Tyne. Ideal post-brunch on Sunday.
Further afield
Largest forest in England, darkest skies in the country. Stargazing sessions at the observatory must be booked ahead.
Castle on a beach. The drive over the causeway is worth it on its own. Check tide times.
Quayside, the bridges, dinner on the river. Great if guests want a city night out before flying home.
A little local wisdom
July in Northumberland is glorious about three days in five. Plan a sunny-day and a rainy-day option, and pack a layer either way.
Sunny: Sycamore Gap walk, Bamburgh beach, Halton Grove lawn with a book.
Rainy: Hexham Abbey, Forum Books, the Larder café in Corbridge, Alnwick Castle indoors.