5 Northumberland Destinations for Nature Lovers
Northumberland is high on our list of places to visit now we’re back living in the UK. We’ve been excitedly researching the best destinations in Northumberland for nature, hiking, wildlife spotting and history. Here are our top five Northumberland destinations for travellers to visit.
Hadrian’s Wall for History Enthusiasts
Hadrian’s wall has to top the list of best destinations in Northumberland. This famous wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England’s most well known landmarks. This Roman structure draws hikers and history enthusiasts from all around. Stretches of the wall still remain intact and can be enjoyed by foot or bike. Hadrian’s Wall is also known to be the inspiration behind George RR Martin’s wall in Game of Thrones.
Cawfields Quarry for Stargazing
Northumberland is the UK’s up-and-coming stargazing destination and where better to watch the starts than at the former Cawfields Quarry on Hadrian’s Wall. The sky here is very dark and lends itself well to star spotting. The night sky is reflected in the water of the quarry, making it an extra magical destination in Northumberland.
Northumberland National Park for Hiking
Lace up your hiking boots for a weekend in Northumberland national park. This 400 square miles of parkland is one of the most sparsely populated areas in England. Expect plenty of rolling hills, undisturbed grasslands, crystal clear salmon rivers, quiet lanes and dark night skies. You’ll find Hadrian’s Wall to the south, but there are plenty of valleys and hills to discover throughout the park area.
Farne Islands for Wildlife Spotting
The Farne Islands is a great destination in Northumberland for wildlife spotters. During the summer, seabirds arrive in swarms for breeding season. These include razorbills, guillemots, eider ducks and puffins. But it’s not only birds you can see on the Farne Islands. The island has a colony of grey Atlantic seals. Around 1000 pups born here each autumn making it England’s largest seal breeding colony.
Bamburgh Beach for Surf, Beach Walks and Castles
Across from the Farne Islands is Northumberland’s stunning beach destination Bamburgh beach. It’s been voted one of the North East’s best surf spots and kite surfers flock here too. If that sounds too chilly for you, enjoy rock pooling around the lighthouse, explore Stag Rocks and explore 18th century Bamburgh Castle which sits above the beach. The Guardian touts Northumberland as a top destination for beautiful, wild and remote seaside holidays due to its Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status.
More Destinations in Northumberland
There’s so many incredible destinations to explore in Northumberland. We’ve mentioned to ones we love the sound of most, but there’s also the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the medieval Dunstanburgh Castle and the secluded Football Hole beach. If you’ve visited to Northumberland, we’d love to hear your recommendations for the best destinations to visit there. Drop us a message in the comments below!
This post was written in collaboration with Cottages in Northumberland where you can find your perfect holiday cottage.
