Northumberland Coast and Countryside: 10 Epic Adventures
Dreaming of a trip to the Northumberland Coast this autumn? If the idea of windswept shorelines and epic countryside adventures is already filling your daydreams – this is for you!
Northumberland is a hidden gem in North East England. Within it, the Northumberland coastline and countryside offer some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. It’s also one of my favorite places in all of England! From its rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the countryside, Northumberland is a place full of wild beauty. In this northernmost county, ancient castles perched on dramatic cliffs loom over sandy beaches. The rolling hills of Northumberland’s vast countryside lie further inland, steeped in Roman history and dotted with quaint medieval villages, providing a stunning contrast to the coastline.
For outdoor lovers, the Northumberland Coast and countryside is the ultimate natural playground. With vast open spaces, historic sites, and diverse landscapes, it’s perfect for anyone who loves adventures in the great outdoors. Being an outdoors enthusiast, I’ve explored the best this region has to offer – from cycling routes to ancient ruins and awe-inspiring coastal walks.
Whether you are hiking coastal paths or cycling through the countryside, here are 10 epic adventures you’ll want to embark on in Northumberland.
1. Visit Northumberland National Park
Despite being the least populated of all the UK’s national parks, Northumberland National Park, the northernmost in England, offers unspoiled natural beauty, history, and serenity. It is home to the country’s cleanest waters and darkest skies, making it a haven for stargazers and outdoor adventurers alike. Beyond the wild landscapes, this park is steeped in Roman history, with Hadrian’s wall cutting through much of its landscape. You may find yourself wandering in and out of the park without even noticing, as it seamlessly blends with Northumberland’s rugged surroundings. From its iconic coastline and Hadrian’s wall to Kielder Forest and its dark sky park, Northumberland National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and is a must-see for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
2. Explore Kielder Forest
Kielder Water and Forest Park is another natural playground within this region, offering a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast network of hiking and mountain biking trails, its the perfect destination for those seeking an epic outdoor adventure. There are various places to stay within the area including camp sites and lodges, making this the perfect weekend (or longer) getaway. Kielder forest in Northumberland is also renowned for having the darkest night skies in the UK, so don’t miss the chance to visit Kielder Observatory and experience the magic of sleeping under a million stars.
3. Embark on a Hadrian’s Wall Hike
The Northumberland countryside’s Roman history attracts history buffs, trekkers, and day-trippers alike. From ancient castles and ruins to forts and the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, this region is steepd in the past. While there are countless Northumberland walking routes, this ancient trail is the most legendary. Spend a day or a week trekking along some or all of the Hadrian’s Wall Path for the chance to follow in the footsteps of the Romans as you create unforgettable memories while you journey through time.
4. Cruise the Cycle Paths in Northumberland
A paradise for cyclists, there are countless cycling routes throughout Northumberland. One of the most iconic routes is the Coast and Castles route from Newcastle to Edinburgh, which runs parallel to much of the Northumberland Coast Path walking route and is comprised of cycleways, tracks, and quiet country lanes. This stunning 223-mile trail allows cyclists to experience the spectacular coastline and countryside, while passing by several famous castles including Warkworth Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and Alnwick Castle. For ambitious cyclists, the C2C route travels all the way across England, passing through Cumbria, Northumberland, and County Durham if completing the classic route. An alternative route is the National Cycle Route 72, also known as Hadrian’s Cycleway, which is a 174-mile route across Northern England and follows along the Hadrian’s Wall path.
5. Find the Sycamore Gap
Situated within Northumberland National Park along one of the prettiest stretches of Hadrian’s Wall lies the Sycamore Gap and the Sycamore Gap Tree. The Sycamore Gap Tree was tragically felled in an act of vandalism in 2023, however this sacred place and stretch of the wall still stands tall, with hopes of regrowth in the years to come. The Gap is a must-see stop for any visitors to Northumberland, and is a place of spectacular beauty along the ancient wall. Whether or not you are trekking the full Hadrian’s Wall Path, you can still easily access the site as part of a day trip, as it can be reached with a short one mile walk from Northumberland National Park’s Visitor Centre, known as The Sill. Leave your car or bike at the Sill’s carpark, and hike out and back to the Sycamore Gap within an hour (or take the longer 4 mile loop if you are feeling ambitious). After your trek, grab a pint at the nearby Twice Brewed Inn, which has its own beer named after the beloved Sycamore Gap Tree.
6. Visit Vindolanda Roman Fort
Also situated within Northumberland National Park and just south of Hadrian’s Wall, Vindolanda Fort is an impressive active archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the ancient Roman occupation within England. The outdoor site is open rain or shine and welcomes visitors from all over the world. Tickets are £12.50 for adults, and offer access to both the Roman Fort and the Vindolanda Museum which houses ancient writing tablets that are considered to be Britain’s top treasure, and allow visitors insight into the real lives of people living at Vindolanda nearly 2000 years ago. Although Vindolanda is located in a fairly remote section of Northumberland, the fort can be reached easily by car, bus, or bike, with a car park and bike storage both available on site.
7. Take a day trip to Corbridge
Corbridge, England is a quaint ancient Roman village and situated in the heart of Northumberland, Corbridge is one of my favorite countryside destinations and this beautiful village is the quintessential English countryside escape and is the perfect launchpad to Hadrian’s Wall country and the Sycamore Gap. No visit to Corbridge is complete without a stop at the renowned Grant’s Bakery – one of the best bakeries in Northumberland!
8. Hike the Simonside Hills and Cheviot Hills
Fancy a day hike in Northumberland? The Simonside Hills and Cheviot Hills are not to be missed. Brimming with wildlife and stunning scenery, these hills hold some of the best Northumberland walking routes. On a clear day, the view from the top of Simonside Hills offers unobstructed views of the North Sea and Northumberland Coast.
9. Explore the Northumberland Coastline
The Northumberland Coast is filled with spectacular destinations, making it a remarkable place to explore. Charming seaside villages and beaches dot this stunning north east coastline, from Amble and Alnmouth, to Seahouses and Druridge Bay. For those who enjoy hiking, the Northumberland Coast Path offers long-distance trekkers a close-up experience of the area’s breathtaking scenery. If walking isn’t your thing, consider a boat trip to the Farne Islands, where you can enjoy a different perspective of the coastline while spotting puffins and seabirds native to the islands, which lie just a few miles off Seahouses. And for anyone who knows me, a day by the coast wouldn’t be complete without gelato, so don’t forget to stop by Spurelli’s in Amble for your sweet fix!
10. Vist the Holy Island
Way up north, the Holy Island lies just a couple miles off the Northumberland Coast. This tidal island with a deep religious history is home to the famous Lindisfarne Castle and priory. Accessible twice a day only by tidal causeway, this majestic island offers a peaceful and serene escape from busy pace of the mainland with its rich history, dramatic coastlines, and eccentric castle. For those seeking a mystical getaway, there are plenty of places to stay on the Holy Island. For my fellow sweet lovers, don’t miss stopping by Pilgrims Gelato, home to some of the best ice cream in Northumberland!
Exploring the best of Northumberland’s Coastal paths and Countryside landscapes
Northumberland Coast and countryside offer an abundance of epic adventures that cater to all types of explorers. From the rugged beauty of its coastline and charming seaside villages to the rich history and stunning landscapes inland, there’s no shortage of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re trekking along the scenic trails, delving into ancient history, or simply savoring the local flavors, Northumberland promises unforgettable moments in nature’s breathtaking playground. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through this captivating region!
How about you? What are your favorite things to do in Northumberland?
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