Northumberland Itineraries - UK Travel Guides

Overview of Northumberland Itineraries

Planning your trip to Northumberland is essential to make the most of its diverse attractions, from historic castles and ancient Roman sites to stunning natural landscapes and charming villages. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, a well-structured itinerary can help you explore the highlights of this beautiful county.

Importance of Planning
Northumberland’s attractions are spread across a wide area, so having a clear plan will help you manage travel times and ensure you don’t miss key sights. With its combination of historical sites, outdoor activities, and scenic drives, Northumberland offers something for everyone.

Suggested Itinerary Lengths

1-Day Itinerary: Ideal for a quick overview or a focused visit to one area.
2-Day Itinerary: Covers key highlights, such as castles and coastal sites.
3-Day Itinerary: Allows for a deeper dive, including inland and Roman sites.
5-Day Itinerary: Provides a comprehensive tour of Northumberland’s top attractions.
7-Day Itinerary: Offers a relaxed pace to explore both well-known and hidden gems.

1-Day Northumberland Itinerary

Stone castle with multiple towers, arched windows, and a conical-roofed turret on a sunny day with a manicured lawn in the foreground.

Morning: Alnwick Castle and Gardens

Start your day at Alnwick Castle, one of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the castle’s historic interiors, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and visit the Alnwick Garden with its impressive water features and the Poison Garden. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss the chance to take part in broomstick training on the castle grounds.

Medieval castle on a hilltop surrounded by grassy sand dunes under a partly cloudy sky.

Afternoon: Bamburgh Castle and Beach

Head north along the A1 to Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically above the North Sea. Take a tour of the castle’s state rooms and learn about its history as a seat of the Kings of Northumbria. After exploring the castle, enjoy a stroll along Bamburgh Beach, known for its sweeping sands and views of the castle.

Scenic view of a coastal village with sandy beach and river, wildflowers in the foreground, and a stone cross on a grassy hill.

Evening: Explore Alnmouth

End your day in the picturesque village of Alnmouth, where you can wander through its charming streets, enjoy the sunset over the beach, and have dinner at one of the local pubs or restaurants.

2-Day Northumberland Itinerary

Day 1: Castles and Coast

Morning: Begin your journey in Alnwick, visiting Alnwick Castle and Garden.
Afternoon: Explore Bamburgh Castle, then drive to Seahouses for a coastal walk.
Evening: Overnight in Bamburgh or nearby Seahouses, enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Hadrian’s Wall and Roman Forts

Morning: Travel to Hadrian’s Wall, visiting Housesteads Roman Fort and Museum.
Afternoon: Continue to Vindolanda to explore the excavations and museum.
Evening: Return to your base or stay near Hexham, a historic market town with a beautiful abbey and vibrant dining options.

3-Day Northumberland Itinerary

Day 1: Holy Island and Lindisfarne

Morning: Check the tide times and drive to Holy Island. Visit Lindisfarne Castle and Priory, exploring the island’s history and natural beauty.
Afternoon: Enjoy a walk on the island’s beaches or explore local shops selling Lindisfarne mead.
Evening: Stay on the island or return to the mainland, enjoying dinner with views of the sea.

Day 2: Kielder Water and Forest Park

Morning: Head to Kielder Water, the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe. Enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, kayaking, or hiking.
Afternoon: Visit the Kielder Observatory for a daytime tour or evening stargazing if available.
Evening: Stay in the Kielder area, known for its dark skies and peaceful surroundings.

Day 3: Northumberland National Park

Morning: Explore Northumberland National Park, focusing on the Cheviot Hills. Hike trails like the Simonside Hills or The Cheviot Summit for panoramic views.
Afternoon: Visit Breamish Valley or explore the park’s ancient hillforts and scenic routes.
Evening: Return to your accommodation, reflecting on the natural beauty of the park.

5-Day Northumberland Itinerary

Medieval stone castle with circular towers, an arched entrance, and a Union Jack flag flying above. A pathway with benches leads to the entrance.

Day 1: Alnwick and Bamburgh

Visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens in the morning, followed by Bamburgh Castle in the afternoon. Enjoy the beaches and coastal scenery.

A large stone castle atop a grassy hill surrounded by a stone wall, with a few people in the foreground.

Day 2: Holy Island and the Farne Islands

Check the tide times for Holy Island, explore Lindisfarne, and then take a boat trip to the Farne Islands from Seahouses for wildlife watching.

Ruins of ancient stone structures with grassy areas in between, set in an open field with trees in the background.

Day 3: Hadrian’s Wall and Vindolanda

Explore Hadrian’s Wall, focusing on key sites like Vindolanda and Housesteads Fort. Learn about Roman Britain and enjoy the scenic landscapes.

A serene lake surrounded by dense pine trees with a cloudy sky.

Day 4: Kielder Water and Hexham

Spend the day at Kielder Water and Forest Park, then visit the historic market town of Hexham, known for its abbey and charming streets.

Large, historic building with Tudor-style architecture, featuring tall chimneys, a red-tiled roof, and ivy-covered walls, set against a backdrop of trees.

Day 5: Rothbury and Cragside

Explore Rothbury, a picturesque town near Northumberland National Park. Visit Cragside, the innovative home of Lord Armstrong, and enjoy its gardens and woodlands.

7-Day Northumberland Itinerary

Day 1: Alnwick and Surroundings
Spend the day exploring Alnwick Castle, Alnwick Garden, and the town’s historic market square. Visit Barter Books, one of the largest second-hand bookshops in the UK.

Day 2: Bamburgh and the Northumberland Coast
Explore Bamburgh Castle and its beach, then visit Seahouses and take a boat trip to the Farne Islands. End the day in Beadnell or a nearby coastal village.

Day 3: Holy Island and Coastal Villages
Visit Holy Island, then explore coastal villages like Craster, famous for its kippers, and Dunstanburgh Castle.

Day 4: Hadrian’s Wall and Hexham
Spend the day along Hadrian’s Wall, visiting Roman sites and the town of Hexham, with its abbey, Old Gaol, and marketplace.

Day 5: Kielder Water and Forest Park
Explore Kielder Water and Forest Park with activities like hiking, cycling, or a visit to the Kielder Observatory.

Day 6: Rothbury, Cragside, and Simonside Hills
Explore Rothbury and Cragside, then enjoy a hike in the Simonside Hills for stunning views of the National Park.

Day 7: Cheviot Hills and Scenic Drives
Spend the day exploring the Cheviot Hills and driving through scenic countryside, visiting quaint villages like Wooler.

Family-Friendly Northumberland Itinerary

Key Family Attractions

Alnwick Castle: Engage in broomstick training and explore Harry Potter film locations.
Kielder Water: Enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, mini-golf, and the Osprey Ferry.
Farne Islands: Take a boat trip for wildlife watching, especially popular with children.

Tips for Traveling with Children

Pack Essentials: Include snacks, water, and activities to keep kids entertained during travel.
Flexible Scheduling: Allow extra time for breaks and unexpected stops.
Check Opening Times: Verify attraction schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Outdoor Adventure Itinerary

Hiking and Walking Trails

Hadrian’s Wall Path: Walk sections of this historic trail, enjoying Roman forts and stunning scenery.
Northumberland Coast Path: Explore coastal trails with views of castles and beaches.

Cycling Routes

Sandstone Way: A challenging route from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Hexham, suitable for experienced cyclists.
Coast and Castles Cycle Route: A scenic route along the coast, ideal for a leisurely ride.

Water Sports and Wildlife Watching

Kielder Water: Try kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding.
Farne Islands: Book a wildlife cruise to see puffins, seals, and other seabirds.

Historical and Cultural Itinerary

Castles and Historical Sites

Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle, and Warkworth Castle: Explore Northumberland’s most iconic castles.
Hadrian’s Wall: Visit Vindolanda, Housesteads, and other Roman forts.

Museums and Heritage Centers

Woodhorn Museum: Discover Northumberland’s coal mining heritage.
Berwick Barracks: Learn about the military history of the Anglo-Scottish border.

Literary and Film Locations

Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle: Experience film locations and themed activities.
Bamburgh Castle: Featured in films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Romantic Getaway Itinerary

Scenic Villages and Secluded Spots

Alnmouth and Warkworth: Explore quaint villages with beautiful scenery and cosy cafes.
Holy Island: Stroll along the serene landscapes of Lindisfarne at sunset.

Romantic Dining and Activities

Fine Dining: Enjoy a romantic meal at the Treehouse Restaurant in Alnwick Garden.
Stargazing: Visit the Kielder Observatory for a romantic night under the stars.

Luxury Stays and Unique Accommodations

Luxury Hotels: Stay in historic hotels like Doxford Hall or grand B&Bs with stunning views.
Unique Accommodations: Consider booking a stay in a castle or a secluded cottage for a truly memorable experience.

Tips for Customising Your Itinerary

Adjusting for Pace and Interests
Customise your itinerary based on your interests, such as focusing more on outdoor activities, historical sites, or coastal experiences. Adjust the pace to match your travel style, whether you prefer a relaxed or fast-paced schedule.

Best Times to Visit Key Attractions

Summer: Ideal for outdoor activities, coastal walks, and wildlife watching.
Spring and Autumn: Great for exploring gardens, hiking, and enjoying milder weather without the peak season crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How many days should I spend in Northumberland?
A1: It depends on your interests. A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to see key attractions, while a 5-7 day itinerary allows for a more comprehensive exploration.

Q2: What is the best time of year to visit Northumberland?
A2: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is ideal for good weather and outdoor activities. Winter offers unique experiences like stargazing and fewer crowds.

Q3: Are Northumberland’s attractions accessible year-round?
A3: Most attractions are open year-round, but some, like Holy Island, are subject to tidal access, and outdoor activities may be weather-dependent.

Q4: Can I visit Northumberland without a car?
A4: Yes, but having a car offers greater flexibility. Public transport and guided tours are available, especially between major attractions and towns.

Q5: Are there family-friendly activities in Northumberland?
A5: Yes, Northumberland offers many family-friendly activities, including castle visits, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures suitable for all ages.

Q6: What are some must-see castles in Northumberland?
A6: Must-see castles include Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Warkworth Castle, and Lindisfarne Castle, each offering unique history and stunning locations.