When it comes to UK staycations, there are so many appealing options in the UK, from the rugged coasts of Cornwall to the charming villages of the Cotswolds, the choices are vast. However there is one county that stands out more than any other when it comes to the perfect staycation destination and of course it’s our stunning Northumberland. It may be the most northern county but Northumberland offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, history and a tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Northumberland boasts miles and miles of unspoilt coastline, much of it protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and unlike the crowded shores you might find elsewhere, Northumberland’s beaches are very often quiet, allowing for peaceful walks along vast stretches of golden sands. There are dunes, rockpools, coves and some of the beaches have nature reserves where you can see first hand an array of wildlife just doing it’s thing! Bamburgh, Druridge, Alnmouth, Warkworth, Embleton, Beadnell to name a few and they are all perfect destinations for taking in the beauty of the Northumberland coastline.
Northumberland has a vast and rich history and offers a journey back in time unlike any other county in the UK. Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches across the county and in fact St Oswald’s Farm sits on top of the wall itself and within just a stone’s throw there are fantastic roman sites such as Housesteads, Vindolanda and Corstopitum where you can take in all our Roman history. Northumberland also boasts more castles than any other in England – Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle, and Warkworth are up there with the large and impressive but there are over 70 castles and bastles across Northumberland and each of these fortresses with their own stories of battles, royalty and legends, making Northumberland an absolute haven for history buffs.
For those who enjoy getting their walking boots on Northumberland’s landscapes are nothing short of stunning. Northumberland National Park boasts 405 square miles of rolling hills, picturesque valleys and serene rivers and is perfect for walking, hiking, mountain biking or simply soaking up the natural beauty. The National Park is also home to The Cheviot Hills, a range that offers more challenging hikes but will reward you with the most incredible panoramic views.
If you love sitting under a starry sky then Northumberland offers one of the darkest skies in Europe, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is one of the largest in the UK and allows visitors to see a dazzling display of stars, planets, and meteor showers on clear nights. It’s one of the best places in the UK to see the Milky Way and more and more often the Northern Lights when conditions are just right. For a truly unique experience you can book a stargazing event at one of our fantastic observatories.
Across the county will find lovely market towns such as Morpeth, Hexham & Alnwick and villages such as Corbridge, Alnmouth and Rothbury and each one with it’s own character and charm and where you will find history hidden around every corner. Northumberland is unrivalled when it comes to friendliness and you will receive the warmest of welcomes and perhaps unlike the busier tourist hotspots you’ll find that we’ll always have time for a friendly chat. If you’re a National Trust or English Heritage member then you’ll be in awe of the impressive and very beautiful properties and gardens such as Cragside, Belsay Hall and Wallington, all of which are an absolute must.
Northumberland has a fantastic reputation for excellent local food, from fresh seafood at our coastal towns to locally brewed ales and unique Northumbrian cheeses, the region offers plenty to delight all you foodies. Our choice of restaurants is second to none and will suit all tastes and budgets from Michelin Star cuisine to barista coffee, homemade cakes and everything in between and you will find our businesses proud to use the freshest local ingredients. The county boasts an array of local markets, craft shops, art galleries and wonderful independent shops that sit alongside some high street names so there’s plenty of opportunity to pick up some wonderful souvenirs.
Northumberland is renowned for it’s peace and quiet and while other counties are often bustling with tourists during peak seasons, Northumberland remains a haven of tranquility so whether you’re hoping to enjoy a quiet beach walk, hike the remote hills, saunter around our lovely gardens or explore some of the historic castles, a Northumberland staycation offers an unmatched sense of calm and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Choosing Northumberland for your next UK staycation means choosing stunning landscapes, a rich history and a sense of calm that is often hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re after a a country escape, a historical journey or an adventure under the stars, Northumberland has it all but without the crowds. So make that booking, pack your bags, bring your walking boots, and prepare to fall in love with our enchanting northern county. A Northumberland staycation isn’t just a holiday; it’s an unforgettable experience.
