Be Inspired - Things to do Northumberland

Relaxation or adventure?  These Northumberland properties are an ideal base for exploring the stunning Northumberland Coast, designated by the National Trust an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Be Inspired - Things to do in Northumberland

A ribbon of breathtaking coastline stretches north from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle, on to Embleton, up the coast to Beadnell, Seahouses and Bamburgh beyond. To the South the coastal path follows the sea as far as Alnmouth and beyond.

Castles

Northumberland is the king of the castles - within 40 minutes of the properties you can visit 6 of them!

Dunstanburgh Castle

A 14th Century fortification in an impressive coastal setting. A stunning 3 mile coastal walk, highly recommended. Park in Craster car park and just walk into the village; the walk starts to the left of the harbour.

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Alnwick Castle

Where the walls are steeped in history and filled with tales of warfare, romance and chivalry. More recently the castle has been the setting for the first 2 Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey Christmas specials!

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Bamburgh Castle

Seated on a rocky plateau, high above the Northumbrian coastline, Bamburgh is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country.

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Warkworth Castle

A mighty Northumbrian fortress, crowning the hilltop above the River Coquet.

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Chillingham Castle

This 12th century stronghold became base-camp for the 1298 conquering attack on Wiliam Wallace by Edward I. The extensive gardens were designed by Capability Brown in 1752.

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Lindisfarne Castle

Cross the dramatic causeway (watch the tides!) to reach the Island of Lindisfarne with its 16th century castle and the ancient Lindisfarne Priory which dates back 1400 years.

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Boots, Boards, Bikes.

Boots

Ranging from challenging long distance trails to leisurely coastal walks, the Northumberland Coast has it all! All properties are never far away from a stretch of England's Coastal path, stretching from Amble to the south up to Bamburgh in the north - how much of it you walk is up to you! If you fancy an inland hike, the Cheviots are only half an hour away. 

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Boards (and other water sports!)

For adrenaline-seeking folks the beaches offer a great opportunity to surf, SUP and body board. Beginner lessons are available locally. There are also opportunities for diving, coasteering, kayaking, kite surfing and snorkelling. These activities are best booked in advance so do let us know if you're interested and we'll sort things out for you. Diving and snorkelling trips leave from Seahouses harbour. The paddle boarding and surfing lessons are usually at Beadnell. LInk below for the surfing and SUP options.

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Bikes

If you're staying at Hemmel House or Aidan's Pad and bringing your own bikes, there's bike storage available. The properties are on or near the "Coast and Castles" cycle route, so you can choose part of the route for a different ride each day. Cycle hire is also available locally, ask us for more details.

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Golfing, Twitching, Angling!

Golfing

Dunstanburgh Links Golf Course is ten minutes drive from the Dunstan properties and provides a stunning setting for a round of golf. There are also links courses at Alnmouth, Seahouses and Bamburgh. You might want to try your hand at a few!

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Twitching

The Daily Telegraph described Northumberland as "a birder's paradise." There's everything from boat trips to the Farne Islands (in season) and Coquet Island to the hide at Newton Pools Nature Reserve.

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Angling

This spectacular coastline with its rugged cliffs attracts many summer anglers, fishing for bass, plaice and mackerel. Charter boats take visitors offshore from Seahouses, Craster and Amble. 

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Gardens

As well as the famous Alnwick Gardens (pictured) there are other horticultural delights including Howick Hall and Gardens, the home of Earl Grey tea and Cragside House and Gardens, the first house to be lit by hydro electricity.

Other Great Stuff!

For Bookworms - Barter Books, Alnwick

One of the largest second hand bookshops in Europe. A converted railway station, originally built in 1887 to impress visiting royalty. While away the hours, browsing the books, sitting by the enormous log fire or enjoying lunch in the old waiting room. It is also the home of the "Keep Calm and Carry On" memorabilia.

Weddings at Newton Hall and Doxford Barn

These amazing wedding venues are within a half hour drive of the properties. So, if you’re basing your trip around attending a wedding, these are the ideal properties to retreat to when the celebrations are over!  Be sure to book your return taxi from the venue ahead of time – we can help you with numbers. 

Mick Oxley Art Gallery Craster and National Trust shop in Seahouses

Enjoy browsing at Mick Oxley's or choose from an original piece or a postcard – the National Trust shop at Seahouses, showcases some of the best local products, there's
something for every pocket!

The Ocean Club Seahouses

The Ocean Health Club at Seahouses offers weekly membership; get in touch with them directly to book all your treatments and spa experiences.