UK & Ireland

And you get something pretty special - Northumberland. It’s diverse and exciting, rugged in parts, soft and rolling in others, overlooked by the Cheviots and the North Pennines and boasting one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.

Image by kind permission of Mario Czekirda

So much to offer

Here you can walk or ride along unspoilt, sandy beaches. At the coast try coastal fishing, kayaking, surfing, sailing or just admiring the dramatic North Sea views.

Cycle the Coast Path or mountain bike along one of Kielder Water & Forest Park’s many paths – there’s one for all abilities.

Discover wildlife, rare plants, rolling hills and rocky crags in one of two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Walking and fishing

Walking, fishing and cycling are probably Northumberland’s most well-known offerings. Whatever your level of walking, you can stride through the wilderness in what Country Walking magazine describes as “the best place for walking in the country”.

A network of public footpaths

Northumberland’s public footpath network criss-crosses open country and farmland and coastal regions too. Many of the footpaths connect towns and villages and along them you will find cosy pubs or tea shops selling tasty local produce.

Walkers seeking longer trails will find some of the most spectacular in the country with St Cuthbert’s Way, the Northumberland Coastal Path, Isaac’s Tea Trail and the 97 mile St Oswald’s Way which starts at Holy Island and traverses Northumberland to Heavenfield.

Hadrian's Wall

Of course the oldest and most famous long distance walk is the stunning Hadrian’s Wall Path, now joined by the newest arrival, the 25 mile scenic Lakeside Way at Kielder Water & Forest Park. If you prefer, guides are available throughout the county to show you the best walking routes and inform you of the historical and other points of interest you pass.

Get out your rod

Northumberland is fast establishing a reputation for all kinds of fishing. Bordered by the mighty rivers of the Tweed and the Tyne, the county also overflows with freshwater lakes and scenic valley streams and rivers where salmon and sea trout return every year to spawn.

The North Sea Coast

The beaches along Northumberland’s coast offer wildlife watching, walking, and riding as well as traditional rock pools and salt air. There are miles of near-empty beaches that renew the soul. The communities are picturesque and many still rely on fishing and craft-making. Coastal communities in the south that were once industrial centres have undergone tremendous regeneration.

Blyth has a new quayside and colourful beach huts whilst Newbiggin-on-Sea boasts a refurbished promenade, a new Maritime Centre and ‘Couple’, a spectacular 5m sculpture standing on the new breakwater.

Championship courses just waiting for you

If the ancient sport of golf is more your style, you’ll also be spoilt for choice. There are championship-standard courses at first-class hotels as well as links courses in the shadow of historic castles such as Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh.

The county’s newest two 18 hole courses were recently opened at Close House by Lee Westwood, their ‘Attached Tour Professional’ and overlook the stunning Tyne River Valley.

Spectacular wildlife

One of the best ways to get active is to get out on a search for some of our spectacular wildlife. The best places include Northumberland National Park, the Coast or North Pennines AONBs, or Kielder Water & Forest Park where Ospreys have now successfully bred for the third year in a row.

Why not consider taking a wildlife tour to see rare species such as Roseate Terns, Otters and Red Squirrels?

Want to take it easy?

But time in Northumberland doesn’t all have to be about physical activity. Known as England’s most tranquil county, the county offers many other opportunities – take a wander around one of the many castles or stately homes or enjoy beautiful gardens. Or of course you could just put your feet up, relax, and enjoy the views.

For more information:

www.northumberlandtourism.co.uk 

Morpeth Tourist Information Centre – 01670 535200.