10 things to do in Northumberland this summer
With the summer holidays imminent we’ve put together a list of 10 things to do over the summer in Northumberland. With so much to do in the area, we might even have to write a second list!
1. Visit Warkworth
The small village with the big personality!
There is so much to do in Warkworth you’ll definitely need a whole day to explore. Here are some of our top things to do.
Warkworth Castle
You can’t miss it as it’s imposing position watches over the village, walk back in time and explore the history of this magnificent castle that perches on the hill top.
The Hermitage and river side walk.
A beautiful river side to wander on a summer day watching the wildlife and river activity (a great place to paddle board!). The historic hermitage, accessed via boat is another fantastic adventure to immerse yourself in history!
The Beach
Not as well-known as some of its more popular rivals but well worth the visit. This huge white sand beach is magnificent! It might become your new favourite!
Ice cream
When you need a pit stop after all that history and walking, make sure you head to Morwick Dairy for some local ice cream.
The Village
Spend the afternoon wandering around the shops, art galleries and cafes.
2. Visit Seahouses
Naturally we are bias when it comes to Seahouses, it’s the home of four of our cottages. However, there’s a reason it tops a lot of visitors lists of places to visit.
Fish and chips
With a number of take aways to choose from, this traditional British favourite won’t disappoint in Seahouses. Take your pick from Lewis’, Hook and Neptunes.
Visit the harbour
A working harbour and a hive of activity with boats in and out. Known as the gateway to the Farne Islands with local companies bursting with knowledge and ready to take you to explore the local bird life. You might even get to see the life boat launch on its training sessions, or on a real-life launch!
Ranger Jane and Scuba Steve
If you want to take on a family adventure, why not discover the local rock pools with Ranger Jane, or learn to snorkel with Suba Steve. Both full of local knowledge and facts.
The bunker and Seafield Leisure Centre
On a wet day if you need something to entertain the family, Seafield Leisure Centre is a great indoor option, as is The Bunker, with its soft play and crazy golf.
St.Aidens Beach
A fantastic beach option for everyone, especially your four legged pals. Walking distance from the centre of Seahouses and if your legs will take you, walk all the way to Bamburgh for a magnificent view of Bamburgh Castle.
3. Go castle spotting.
With more castles than any other English county why not get your pen and paper out and tick them off your list. You don’t need to book entry tickets to admire the beauty of these awe inspiring buildings.
4. Rothbury music festival 14th – 16th July
Fun and entertainment for the whole family. The rural village of Rothbury hosts the fun, friendly community Northumbrian music festival for all to enjoy.
5. Visit the Farne Islands
One of the most popular things to do in Northumberland, the Farne Islands are home to nearly 37,000 pairs of puffins who return each year to nest in their burrows.
Puffins aren’t the only bird life the explore, for a month by month list of what to see, head to the National Trust’s helpful list here.
A keen photographer’s dream, not only are the Farne Islands home to puffins but also Atlantic grey seals, eider ducks, guillemots and terns to name a few.
6. Ingram & Breamish Valley
Take a day to head inland, at the foot of the Cheviots you’ll find places for riverside picnics and hill walks.
Didn’t think Safaris could be found in Northumberland? Think again, at Ingram Valley Safaris enjoy a National Park experience and discover why Ingram Valley is so special.
Hop over to Breamish Valley for a lunch stop at The Bosk and on the way home why not call in at Powburn Antiques Centre.
7. Immerse yourself in outdoor theatre at Alnwick Garden.
Enjoy productions of David Walliam’s Bad Dad and Wind in the Willows. Head over to their website for booking information.
8. Walk the Cheviots
If you’re a keen walker and like to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the coastal villages for the day, you can really enjoy the wild rugged countryside by stepping into the hills of the Cheviots. Guided or unguided there are a number of options and routes.
The best place for more information is the National Park website.
9. Have a dog friendly stay
Voted for being one of the most dog friendly areas to holiday with your four-legged friend by cottages.com back in March, there are endless opportunities for you and your dog.
Most of the beaches are dog friendly with huge sweeping spaces for dog walks. With dog friendly pubs to enjoy after those long walks resting those aching legs.
Check out our food map for some of our favourite dog friendly places to eat!
10. Beadnell Bay
With a reputation for water sports, a gorgeous beach, plenty of parking (payable), pubs and a beach bar, it’s no wonder Beadnell is the place to be!
Try paddle boarding with KA Adventure sports, watch kite surfers as they crash through the waves, head down the beach for a walk, enjoy lunch at The Landing where you can sometimes find live music, or a drink at The Craster Arms.
