Category: Northumberland

Posts about many of the top places to visit In Northumberland together with some of the hidden gems that lie all over this beautiful northern most county of England. Lots of information on things to do, what’s on locally, events, the history, ideas for days out in any weather, best gardens and when to visit, the many castles, museums and visitor attractions, the spectacular walking opportunities, the huge choice of places to eat from coffee shops, to gastro pubs to fine dining, all whilst staying in Northumberland at St Oswald’s Farm, a working sheep and cattle farm with 5 star luxury holiday accommodation that sleeps 2, Heavenfield Cottage, which sits uniquely on top of Hadrian’s Wall itself. St Oswald’s Farm is just 5 miles from the ancient market town of Hexham, 6 miles from the beautiful village of Corbridge and within a short drive of all the major roman visitor sites of Housesteads, Vindolanda and Sycamore Gap. St Oswald’s Farm is centrally located to enjoy the whole of Northumberland and the North East of England.

Visit Haltwhistle

Posted on March 12, 2026 by St Oswald's Farm - Hadrian's Wall Area Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions, Walks

Northumberland is dotted with welcoming market towns, each with its own distinctive character and charm, and Haltwhistle is in no way an exception. Ideally placed close to Hadrian’s Wall, Haltwhistle combines a friendly atmosphere with independent shops, cafés, a geographical claim to fame and fantastic local walks, making it an easy and rewarding place to spend time while exploring this part of the county.

alt="Haltwhistle main street and market square on a sunny day" — Haltwhistle main street and market square

The Centre of Britain

Haltwhistle is a fascinating little town and at the geographical centre of Britain and as such the town has long been shaped by its location, sitting where ancient routes once crossed the North Pennines and earning its reputation as the “Centre of Britain.” Over the centuries, its position made it an important stopping point for travellers, a role it still plays today for visitors exploring Hadrian’s Wall, the South Tyne Valley and the surrounding countryside.

The town is steeped in history, with the most prominent historic building, The Centre of Britain Hotel, which was originally built as a pele tower in the late 15th century, just as the Border Reivers were starting three centuries marked by conflict and pillage. After the unification of the Crowns the tower and the bastle house next door were merged together and became the Tax Collector’s office. Later on the buildings would go on to be used as a coaching inn and post office. The Centre of Britain Hotel has a long, varied and fascinating history and there is no better place then their website to read all the historical highs and lows of this building.

Historic Haltwhistle

The area around Haltwhistle’s market place has the largest number of surviving bastles in England, and these are marked by plaques so that visitors can follow a ‘bastle trail‘. An ideal stroll if you’ve arrived without your walking boots.

The town is home to three churches, Haltwhistle Methodist Church, St Wilfred’s Catholic Church and the Church of the Holy Cross which is the oldest building in Haltwhistle and one of only a few early 13th century churches still functioning as a working church in England. The Holy Cross Church features a mix of Norman and later Gothic styles. Its nave and chancel display thick masonry and pointed arches, while the west tower – added later – serves as a local landmark. Inside highlights include medieval grave slabs, 19th-century stained glass, and carved stonework that documents evolving ecclesiastical design over eight centuries. The church is open to visitors on Thursday and Saturday from 2.00 until 4.00 pm from Easter to the end of September.

alt="Church of the Holy Cross in Haltwhistle" — Church of the Holy Cross

Haltwhistle on Foot

Each year the town hosts The Haltwhistle Walking Festival inviting walkers of all abilities to explore the stunning Northumberland countryside through a programme of guided walks. Every Festival includes over 20 walks and ensures that the programme offers a variety of walk destinations, a variety of grades and a variety of specialist walks. Set in and around the town and the stunning landscapes around Hadrian’s Wall the festival offers scenic routes along rivers, past historic sites and across open moorland – a great way to enjoy scenic Northumberland, meet fellow walkers, and discover the area at its best. If you’re not visiting during the festival and want to enjoy walks in the area take a look at The Haltwhistle Rings, a choice of 22 circular walks through all the historic parishes of Haltwhistle with pdf guides that include ‘Did you know’ points of interest to enjoy on each route.

alt="Lambley viaduct part of Haltwhistle Rings walk" — Lambley Viaduct – Haltwhistle Rings Walk 10

Visiting Haltwhistle is a perfect addition to a Northumberland stay, promising a day that brings together history, distinctive landmarks, local charm and scenic walks through beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re exploring the town itself or simply pausing to stand at the very “Centre of Britain,” Haltwhistle offers a relaxed and rewarding day out.

Remarkable Romans – Corstopitum Roman Town

Posted on January 22, 2026 by St Oswald's Farm - Hadrian's Wall Area Attractions, North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

Just a short drive from St Oswald’s Farm, Corstopitum Roman Town offers an absorbing glimpse into life on the northern edge of the Roman Empire. Set at a key crossroads, the site developed into an important supply base and settlement supporting the nearby garrisons along Hadrian’s Wall. Its wide streets, substantial granaries and workshops reveal a place that was busy, organised and central to frontier life. Today, Corstopitum is a fascinating and rewarding place to explore and just one of the superb local Roman sites that can be enjoyed in the surrounding area.

alt= "Corstopitum Roman Town buildings and old road with green fields in the distance" — Corstopitum Roman Town

As you begin to explore the site, the scale and detail of what remains quickly becomes apparent. The outlines of streets guide you through the town, while the towering granaries hint at the vast quantities of supplies that were once stored here. Fragments of everyday Roman life emerge along the way, from workshops and store buildings to carved stonework and inscriptions, inviting visitors to imagine the people who lived, worked and passed through Corstopitum nearly two thousand years ago.

Meeting the Corbridge Lion At Corstopitum

One of the most iconic artefacts at Corstopitum is the Corbridge Lion, a Roman sandstone sculpture believed to date back to the 2nd-3rd century AD. The lifelike carving shows a male lion poised over its prey, perhaps a deer, sheep or similar animal and was most likely originally created as decorative ornament, possibly intended for a tomb. The statue was very obviously later repurposed as a fountainhead as the mouth on the carving now shows, perhaps the Romans showing us then, how to re-use and re-purpose. Today the Corbridge Lion is one of the standout exhibits in the Corbridge Roman Site museum, offering a striking glimpse of Roman craftsmanship and the symbolic art of the period.

alt="The Corbridge Lion a stone statue found at corstopitum" — The Corbridge Lion

The Corbridge Hoard – An Extraordinary Roman Discovery

Another fascinating display within the museum is the Corbridge Hoard which was discovered just a few miles of Corstopitum and is one of the most remarkable Roman finds in Britain. Buried in the early 2nd century AD, the hoard was found packed inside a wooden chest and contained a carefully arranged collection of armour, weapons, tools, and personal items – including beautifully decorated metalwork and parts of a lorica segmentata (body armour). The way the objects were meticulously stored suggests they were deliberately hidden for safekeeping, perhaps during a time of unrest and then never recovered. Today, the hoard helps bring Corstopitum vividly to life, revealing not just the military presence at Corbridge, but the craftsmanship, organisation and everyday realities of Roman soldiers stationed far from home.

Beyond its most famous finds, Corstopitum has yielded a rich collection of artefacts that bring everyday Roman life into focus. Stone altars and inscribed building stones reveal the beliefs, regiments and individuals connected with the town, while coins trace its long period of occupation and change. Alongside these are practical objects such as tools, fittings and fragments of architectural stonework, offering insight into how the settlement functioned on a daily basis. Together, these quieter finds help build a fuller picture of Corstopitum as a working town – organised, lived in and closely tied to the demands of the northern frontier.

A visit to Corstopitum makes for a rewarding and unhurried day out, combining open-air exploration with some of the most fascinating Roman history in the region. After exploring the site and its museum, the nearby village of Corbridge is well worth time of its own, a great place to wander, with fantastic independent shops, cafés and welcoming places to eat as well as a lovely riverside walk.

Spotlight on Alnwick Castle

Posted on October 23, 2025 by St Oswald's Farm - North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

One of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks is the magnificent Alnwick Castle. It’s grand, it’s full of history and it’s just a lovely day out. Whether you’re a lover of historic buildings, a Harry Potter fan, or you simply enjoy exploring somewhere beautiful, Alnwick Castle really does have something for everyone.

From St Oswald’s Farm, it’s around an hours drive, and if you opt to take the scenic route via Kirkharle and Rothbury you will find yourself winding through open countryside and picture-perfect Northumberland villages. It’s an easy and enjoyable route, and before you know it, the sight of the castle’s towers will be rising above the town ahead of you.

alt="Alnwick Castle with blue skies above" — Alnwick Castle – impressive even at first glance

Step into history at Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is often described as one of the finest castles in England, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. It’s still home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, and there’s something rather special about walking through a place that’s not only steeped in history, but also very much alive and lived in.

Alnwick Castle dates back to the 11th century, when it was first built by Yves de Vescy, Baron of Alnwick, to defend England’s northern border. Over the centuries, it’s witnessed battles, sieges and royal visits, and today it stands as one of the largest inhabited castles in the country.

In 1309, it became home to the Percy family, one of the most powerful noble families in English history, and as it still remains their residence today, it one of the few castles of this size still lived in by its original lineage. The Percys played major roles in English history – from the medieval wars with Scotland to the Wars of the Roses and beyond.

Alnwick Castle – From fortress to film star

While its medieval walls tell tales of knights and nobles, Alnwick Castle has a lighter side too. In more recent years, it’s become something of a film and TV star – appearing as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey and many more film and TV appearances including Transformers and Dungeons & Dragons! The castle embraces this fame beautifully, offering broomstick training sessions in the very courtyard where Harry and his friends first learned to fly! It’s a wonderful mix of fun and nostalgia, and a must-see for Potter fans of any age.

Beyond the magic, there’s plenty more to enjoy, try your hand at archery, meet costumed guides who bring the castle’s past vividly to life, or simply wander through the grounds and soak up the views. Within the castle’s keep, you’ll find beautifully decorated State Rooms which include the Upper and Lower Guard Chambers, the Library, the Drawing Room, the Saloon, the Dining Room, and the China Gallery all of which are stunning, packed full of fine art, antique furniture and centuries of history. Your day ticket includes entrance to all the museums and collections within the castle and to the grounds which include highlights such as the Lion Arch and a replica Napoleonic cannon that sits proudly on the Gun Terrace.

alt="Alnwick Castle Barbican" — The Barbican

When it’s time for lunch, there’s the Courtyard Café inside the castle grounds that not only offers a warm Northumbrian welcome but a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, soups and savoury bites, or you can wander into the town itself, where you’ll find plenty of independent cafés and little shops to explore. For more information on visiting Alnwick Castle please head to their website.

Don’t miss The Alnwick Garden

Right next door is The Alnwick Garden, and it’s absolutely worth a visit while you’re there. The Grand Cascade is breathtaking, the Poison Garden is fascinating (and perhaps a little bit eerie!) in fact all of the gardens within the complex are simply beautiful and with interest throughout the year.

alt="Alnwick Garden Grand Cascade" — The Grand Cascade

Extend the day and visit the coast

If you’ve still got some exploring left in you, the coast is only a short drive away. Craster is a lovely little fishing village known for its kippers, its harbour views and its walk along the coastal path to Dunstanburgh Castle. On a sunny day, it’s hard to beat the combination of sea air, castle ruins, wide open skies and the opportunity to enjoy a drink and a crab sandwich at The Jolly Fisherman.

alt="Craster harbour" — Craster Harbour – a peaceful end to a perfect Northumberland day

Alnwick Castle really does capture so much of what makes Northumberland so very special, its deep history, its beauty, its creativity and that little bit of magic that stays with you long after you’ve left.

The Charming Village of Ingram

Posted on September 22, 2025 by St Oswald's Farm - North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

Tucked away in the heart of the stunning Breamish Valley is the tiny village of Ingram however what this village lacks in size is more than made up for it when it comes to quiet charm. A day out to enjoy the walks and scenery in this part of the Northumberland National Park will leave you in awe of the stunning countryside but don’t miss dropping by this little hidden gem.

The village itself sits alongside the beautiful River Breamish and is made up of a few lovely stone buildings, and is also home to an 11th-century Anglican church, St Michael and All Angels which is steeped in history and sits within a large churchyard with lych gate, a welcoming church that holds regular services. Further on from the church you will find a visitor centre that includes the Breamish Valley Archaeology Exhibition, which has some lovely finds that have been unearthed by archaeologists over the years. A real bonus is the lovely little family run cafe that offers light meals, cakes, snacks and drinks.

alt="Ingram church and churchyard with snowdrops and gravestones" — Ingram Church (c) A Forster

alt="a warmly lit interior of Ingram church" — Ingram Church (c) A Forster

Walk This Way!

It goes without saying that the surrounding Breamish Valley is a paradise for ramblers, gentle strollers and serious hikers alike with countless walks and trails, so make sure to pack your walking boots to enjoy one of the many fantastic routes including:

Breamish Valley Hill Fort Trail – The Breamish Valley is one of the most important archaeological landscapes in the country, with Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements that are believed to be over 2500 years old. If you love a spot of ancient history then these hill forts and burial mounds are simply breathtaking and attract archaeologists from across the globe. Take the walk and step back in time on this moderate yet rewarding adventure, where you’ll visit five ancient Iron Age Hillforts set high in the Northumberland landscape. This is a fantastic climb with a summit that rewards you with incredible panoramic views of the entire valley. This 4.5 mile walk is for the more adventurous and suitable footwear and clothing is essential.

Linhope Spout Waterfall – A truly beautiful walk to a beautiful spot! A lovely 3 mile walk starting just outside of Ingram takes you to this dramatic 18-metre waterfall that cascades into a deep plunge pool set amongst a pretty glade which is perfect for a picnic! As you make your way to the waterfall, keep an eye out for wildlife and particularly red squirrels that reside in the surrounding woodland. If waterfalls are your favourite type of walk check out our favourite walks to waterfalls here.

alt="Large cascade waterfall and plunge pool at Linhope Spout in the Breamish Valley" — Linhope Spout

Starry Skies Over Ingram

As the village is set within the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, it falls with the designated Dark Sky Discovery Site where there is no hint of city glare and only an intense darkness which is of course perfect for viewing the billions of stars in our vast Northumberland skies!

The Village of Ingram is just a small part of a huge offer in the Breamish Valley, don’t go expecting a high street filled with shops, but do visit the village and enjoy the feeling of peaceful contentment and embrace the very quiet beauty as part of your day out to this picturesque part of Northumberland.

Walks to Waterfalls

Posted on May 14, 2025 by St Oswald's Farm - Hadrian's Wall Area Attractions, North East Attractions, Northumberland

Northumberland has some gorgeous walks to waterfalls and what could be better than a walk in the beautiful Northumberland countryside combined with the sight and sound of a waterfall.

The Northumberland National Park is the place to go to enjoy many superb walks with the added bonus of a waterfall, this lovely 3 mile walk takes you to the spectacular Linhope Spout waterfall that has a 60ft cascade that drops down into a plunge pool that is 16ft deep. The walk to Linhope Spout begins and ends near the village of Ingram and is classed as a moderate walk with some steep and rocky paths but definitely worth the trek. When you reach your destination you will find that the impressive cascade of water and plunge pool sits within a pretty glade that is perfect for a picnic or of course there is always the opportunity for a spot of wild water swimming!

alt="walk to waterfalls Crammel Linn waterfall and plunge pool in the sunshine"

Also within the National Park is one of our own personal favourites Hareshaw Linn near Bellingham which is just a 20 minute drive from St Oswald’s Farm. The 3 mile walk begins at the Hareshaw Linn car park in Bellingham and follows the serene Hareshaw Burn upstream. Along the way, you’ll cross six charming little bridges and pass through a rich mix of oak, hazel, elm and ash trees and keep your eyes open for red squirrels, woodpeckers, wood warblers and many more creatures and birds that call this beautiful woodland home. As you navigate the winding paths you’ll soon hear the sound of the waterfall and then the stunning 30 foot torrent which is tucked within a moss covered gorge, will come into view. The path is well-defined but is uneven and steep with steps and muddy patches, so make sure you have suitable footwear to enjoy this lovely walk.

alt="walk to a waterfall through mature woodland on rough woodland path" — A walk through mature woodland….

alt="Hareshaw Linn waterfall and plunge pool with green trees above" — A walk through mature woodland….

One of the prettiest waterfalls in the area has to be Crammel Linn which lies on the River Irthing on the border between Northumberland and Cumbria and which can be accessed on foot from the nearby village of Gilsland. The Irthing flows through a deep gorge which is flanked by sandstone crags and although not a particularly easy walk you will be rewarded a with the sight of a very pretty 25ft waterfall. The cascade splits into two during drier spells but after heavy rain is a powerful single force. The circular walk from Gilsland is around 9 miles and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, tranquility together with a touch of history.

alt="Crammel Linn waterfall with pretty grass and flowers walks to waterfalls" — Crammel Linn

North Northumberland has its share of stunning waterfalls too and Routin Linn which sits north of the town of Wooler, which is not to be confused with Roughting Linn, is no exception. A moderate walk from the village of Ford takes you through tranquil countryside passing the Ford Moss Nature Reserve where you can see birds such as red grouse, meadow pipit and woodcock. The route continues from the reserve towards Goatscrag Hill before arriving at this fairytale style waterfall on the Broomridge Dean Burn. A short walk away from the waterfall is an outcrop of grey sandstone where you can see Iron Age ring marks and cup holes carved into the rocks which are thought to date back 4,000 years to the Neolithic period. A picturesque walk with an enchanting waterfall together with a glimpse of fascinating history. This walk is a linear route and you’ll return to Ford on the same path.

There are many more wonderful walks to waterfalls across the whole of the North East of England so if you’re a waterfall seeker don’t miss the spectacular High and Low Force in nearby County Durham. Combine this with a visit to Barnard Castle, Raby Castle, Egglestone Gardens or The Bowes Museum.

High Force (c) Vamosjanos

alt="Walks to waterfalls High Force large waterfall in county Durham"

Taking some of the beautiful walks to waterfalls is simply a wonderful way to see and enjoy the Northumberland countryside and for more walks by water then head to our blog post on some of our lovely river walks.

Discovering Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum

Posted on April 14, 2025 by St Oswald's Farm - North East Attractions, Northumberland, Visitor Attractions

Tucked away in the heart of Morpeth, the Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the rich heritage of both Northumbrian and traditional bagpipes from across Europe and beyond. Housed in a beautifully restored medieval chapel, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the history, craftsmanship, and the music of these unique instruments.

alt="image of bagpipes with Northumberland tartan" — Credit and Copyright ©: Colin Davison

Northumberland is the only county in England with its very own musical instrument, the Northumbrian small pipes, and the Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum is the first bagpipe museum in the UK. The Northumbrian small pipes are bellows-blown bagpipes and they produce a sweet mellow sound and although they date back to the 17th century they are still played today and have become more well known through musicians such at Kathryn Tickell who is the most famous contemporary player of these traditional pipes.

This little museum not only tells the history of these remarkable pipes but also delves into piping traditions and of course the bagpipe museum would not be complete without allowing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the iconic sound of the Northumbrian small pipes during your visit.

alt="close up image of bagpipes at Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe museum" — Credit and Copyright ©: Colin Davison

Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe museum houses over 120 sets of pipes in its collection and includes pipes from across Europe, including decorative sets from Scotland, Spain, Italy, France, Estonia and beyond. It showcases an extensive collection from master clock maker and pipe enthusiastic, William Alfred Cocks, a set of bagpipes said to have belonged to King Louis XIV of France, a miniature set made for Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and pipes from the Jacobite Rising.

alt="Inside of museum area at Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum"

Alongside these amazing displays, visitors can also watch the museum space come to life with regular live musical performances, ‘Learn to Play in a Day’ and ‘Meet the Piper’ sessions. It’s a hive of creative activity, with the Northern Poetry Library and Craft Centre also located in this historic building.

Whether you’re a seasoned piper, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the hauntingly beautiful sounds of the pipes, this little museum provides an immersive experience that brings some traditions of the past to life.

Morpeth Chantry, also known as All Saints Chantry, is a Grade I listed building situated adjacent to the site of the ancient bridge across the River Wansbeck in Morpeth. It was built in the 13th century and served as a chapel dedicated to All Saints and was also a toll house where local townspeople had to pay the priest a toll to cross the river, and in fact you can still see the foundations of the town’s Medieval bridge in the river below. Keep your eyes peeled as you admire the Chantry building and see if you can spot the oldest window in Morpeth.

alt="Front aspect of Morpeth Chantry bagpipe museum"

Through the centuries the Chantry building has been many things, the town grammar school from the 1550s up until 1846, as council offices and concert venue in Victorian times, and as a mineral water factory in the 20^th century and more latterly The Chantry was finally restored in the 1980s to be used as the museum and craft centre that you see today.

Morpeth is not only home to this unique little museum but it is also a lovely town to visit so be sure to enjoy all this thriving market town has to offer, the parks, gardens, shops, weekly market and the old Morpeth Castle gatehouse. For more information on what Morpeth has to offer head to our recent blog post.

alt="Morpeth river wansbackw ith rowing boats" — Rowing boats on the River Wansbeck in Morpeth

St Oswalds Farm Cottages, Wall, Northumberland