Being one of the top tourist destinations in the UK, Northumberland has an array of attractions to visit and things to do throughout the year. With a great supply of the country’s most historic sites, as well as a varied and beautiful landscape, you and your loved ones will find lots of things to do in Northumberland.
England’s ancient capital is seemingly endless with historical things to do. You and your loved ones can simply meander the sleeping English town, littered with cobblestone paths and a collection of independent shops. If you are looking for something a bit more sheltered, there are plenty of heritage attractions in Northumberland to discover from historic castles to grand stately homes.
A must thing to do in Northumberland is to visit the 900-year-old castle of Alnwick, which was built to protect England from Scottish invasions! You may recognise this feat of architecture from the Harry Potter films as it doubled up as Hogwarts! Located within close reach of the castle is Alnwick Gardens, a multi-award-winning Northumberland attraction, which features the world’s largest Tai Haku Cherry Orchard.
Bamburgh Castle is one of the many other great things to do in Northumberland, as is the Kielder Water and Observatory in Kielder Forest and the awe-inspiring Northumberland coastline.
Looking for Northumberland activities that the whole family can enjoy? Take a boat trip around the Farne Islands admiring the abundance of wildlife from a different vantage point, especially birds such as puffins, guillemots and Arctic terns. Disembark at Inner Farne and visit the Church of St. Cuthbert, the Inner Farne Lighthouse and watch the Grey Seal colonies as they bask on the rocks.
A trip to Northumberland would not be complete without viewing the famous Roman fortification Hadrian’s Wall. Hike along the remains of the impressive structure, taking in the impressive views of the surrounding countryside as you go.
Continue reading to find more things to do in Northumberland…
Alnmouth Beach
Alnmouth
Alnwick
NE66 2RU
The sandy Alnmouth Beach, located at the mouth of the River Aln, is a peaceful bay where visitors can relax in the sun or go for a paddle in the clear waters.
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Alnwick Castle
Alnwick
NE66 1NQ
The castle is one of the UK’s most iconic structures and the family seat of the Duke of Northumberland. The medieval building and its beautiful gardens are open to the public year-round, boasting exhibitions and special events throughout.
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Andy Howey’s Birds of Prey Centre
Haggerston Castle Italian Gardens
Berwick upon Tweed
TD15 2NZ
Andy Howey’s Birds of Prey Centre is located on the grounds of Haggerston Castle in the heart of Northumberland. Discover an instructive, engaging, and hands-on encounter with a variety of birds of prey, reptiles, and creepy crawlies at this excellent wildlife centre!
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Bailiffgate Museum
14 Bailiffgate
Alnwick
NE66 1LX
A people’s museum that hosts a variety of activities and unique exhibitions for the entire family, including interactive displays that explain the narrative of Alnwick. With a miner’s kitchen and a Victorian schoolroom, this is a fun and educational day out.
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Bamburgh Beach
Bamburgh
NE69 7DF
This large beach is ideal for a walk following a visit to the settlement of Bamburgh. The coastline washes beyond the magnificent ramparts of Bamburgh Castle, one of the most recognisable castles in the UK, and offers views of the Farne Islands to the east.
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Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh
NE69 7DF
Once the home of the Anglo-Saxon Kings of Northumberland, Bamburgh Castle is now the family seat of the Armstrong family who open 14 of the rooms to the public and exhibit over 3,000 items of artwork, furniture, china and porcelain.
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Bamburgh Castle Golf Club
40 The Wynding
Bamburgh
Northumberland
NE69 7DE
01668214321
Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is often quoted as one of the most scenic golf courses in Britain and with views of Lindisfarne, the Farne Islands, the Cheviots and of course Bamburgh Castle, the course is one of the truest links experiences to be had in England. A traditional coastal classic that will leave you breathless, this is a must-play golf course for an unforgettable golfing experience.
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Belford Museum
11 Market Place
Belford
NE70 7NE
Belford Museum is a local attraction in this stunning Northumberland village. Here, you can explore the rich local history of Belford and how the residents lived their lives.
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Quayside
Quay Walls
Berwick-Upon-Tweed
TD15 1HE
07713 170845
Want to experience this part of Northumberland’s coast in a spectacular way? Come aboard Berwick Boat Trips, where a range of water excursions await.
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Parade
Berwick-upon-Tweed
Northumberland
United Kingdom
TD15 1DF
0370 333 1181
If you’re a history enthusiast, we recommend venturing to the medieval ruin of Berwick Castle. Enjoy tours, panoramic views and more here.
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