Here are a few of our favourite places to visit and things to do:
Our highly distinguished neighbour is a pele tower that provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Border Reivers. The tower is owned by the Baker-Cresswell family and was built between 1392 and 1399 when warfare between England and Scotland was endemic. Some rooms have been furnished as they might have been in the 14th century and is open for visitors to visit. Climb to the top of the tower to hear it’s bell chime on the hour and for spectacular views of coast and country on a sunny day.
The spectacular Castle stands proudly on a steep rocky cliff which overlooks the village on the west side and the North Sea on the east side. The castle is open to the public, and the village itself makes a pleasant visit with small cafes, eateries and local shops. Bamburgh beach is one of the most stunning beaches on the coastline with wide, flat sands and a stunning walk from Bamburgh to Seahouses. Eat at The Potted Lobster for great food.
Holy Island and its castle are a must see on the Northumbrian coastline, boasting some of the richest history from both the Christian religion and Viking raids. Pilgrims Coffee House and Roastery provide a great pitstop for a hot drink and a slice of cake.
Seahouses boasts some of the best Fish & Chip shops you’ll find in the area. Visit Lewis’ if you want to sit inside and enjoy some locally caught fish, or try Pinnacles for a takeout and tuck in on one of the benches overlooking the harbour. Trips to the Farne Island also start from Seahouses. This is a must do trip if the weather’s good, when you can experience some of the richness of wild life we have along our coastline including puffins and seals. Learn about the courageous rescue mission embarked on by Grace Darling when sailors became shipwrecked off the Farnes during a tumultuous storm.
The fishing village of Craster is one of the most idyllic villages on the coastline with small fisherman’s cottages and a central harbour. Take a walk from Craster along the coast up to the ruin of Dunstanburgh Castle and you will experience some of the most spectacular scenery along the coastline. Finish off with some food at the Jolly Fisherman pub in Craster or the local seafood restaurant, and of course purchase some of the infamous Craster Kippers from the smokehouse in the village. Visit Eleanor’s Byre in between Craster and Embleton for delicious cake and lovely gifts. Or Ember’s woodfired pizza for some of the best pizza you’ll find in the north east.
Alnwick Castle is an awe inspiring visit and home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. The castle is open to the public to look around and you may recognise some of it from scenes in the Harry Potter movies. The landscaped gardens make for a wonderful visit with spectacular fountains, mazes and water features. Visit Barter Books in Alnwick to experience the largest second had bookshop in the country.
Situated near Rothbury, Cragside was built by Lord Armstrong and the setting from where he invented electricity. Cragside provides a wonderful day out with extensive walks through the rugged estate featuring lakes, bridges and some extremely old trees. Tours around the house are available and a large play area for entertaining families. Part of the National Trust.
The home of Earl Gray Tea. Howick has lovely gardens to explore including a newly established sensory garden which is not only beautiful but aimed at supporting children with autism. A tearoom is located in the house. The surrounding coastline boasts some wonderful walks and the secluded Sugar Sands beach nearby.
A large rural Northumbrian Estate with a number of attractions to visit including Heatherslaw Light Railway, Lady Waterford Hall and Heatherslaw Corn Mill. An often overlooked but stunning place to visit.
A quaint coastal village with potential to be tagged the Padstow of the north. Alnmouth is buzzing with places to visit - a stunning beach, The Old School Gallery and Café, Box Woodfired Pizza, the newly established Whittling House restaurant and Scott’s Deli to name a few.
