…when you can go to Northumberland?
Going abroad has been tricky for the last couple of years and now many
of us have the staycation bug, are re-discovering home soil and looking to
the UK for an unforgettable staycation. Who needs to go overseas anyway,
when you have staggering beaches, fascinating history, incredible wildlife,
and diverse landscapes on your doorstep?
Switch the following for a staycation in Northumberland this year and
discover pristine beaches, epic historical sites, idyllic islands and endless
experiences.
CROATIA’S WATERFALLS
If you’ve been eyeing up Croatia’s waterfalls, you could wander from
waterfall to waterfall in Northumberland National Park instead. Nestled
away in the idyllic Breamish Valley is Linhope Spout, a 60 foot chute of water
that rushes into a 16ft deep plunge pool. Hareshaw Linn sits just a stone’s
throw away from Bellingham, where secrets of St Cuthbert, an abundance
of walking routes, and stone cottages adorned with ivy are all closeby.
Seemingly secret Roughtin Linn, where you could almost miss the narrow
path that leads down to it, tumbles in a secluded spot in Ingram Valley in
The Cheviots.
IDYLLIC ISLANDS
For an idyllic island escape, simply venture across Lindisfarne causeway
and visit Holy Island. This tidal island holds an ancient priory, an enchanting
castle and Gertrude Jekyll Garden, and of course shimmering sea views fit to
soothe the soul. Sip on Lindisarne Mead at St Aidan’s Winery and stop for
a coffee at Pilgrim’s Coffee House. *Always check safe crossing times before
visiting Holy Island.
ROME’S HISTORY
When in Northumberland, do as the Romans do… from Hadrian’s Wall
that plunges across Northumberland’s rugged landscapes, to the Roman
auxiliary fort Vindolanda where ancient artefacts are uncovered during
excavations every summer, Northumberland boasts a host of Roman history.
Secrets of the Roman Empire are scattered across our countryside in our
Roman Baths, Corbridge Roman Old Town and numerous forts.
THE AZORES’ DOLPHINS
It’s not just foreign seas that boast dazzling dolphin displays. Bottlenose
dolphins are regulars on the Northumberland coast, and they have a habit
of showing off to visitors. They can be seen from many points along our
coast, but to heighten your chances, take a boat trip with Berwick Boat Trips.
Heading out to the mouth of the River Tweed, regular sightings take place
along with grey seal spotting. Venture over to The Farne Islands on a boat
trip from Seahouses harbour and keep an eye out for dolphins while you’re
admiring the puffins, as they love to race the boats in this area too.
CANADA’S LOG CABINS
Craving a cosy, Canadian-style log cabin getaway in the heart of nature?
Northumberland’s remote treehouses, huts and cabins are the perfect
fix for a rustic retreat. Woodland Chase’s glamping cabins and treehouse
with hot tubs and wooden terraces, Huts in the Hills’ huts with spectacular
views and outdoor copper bath tub, and Alnmouth Shoreside Huts that
teeter on our staggering coastline are just a few options. Not to mention
Hesleyside Huts’ cabins and brand new treehouse accommodation nestled.
ICELAND’S SEALIFE
Iceland’s marine life is one of its highlights, but you don’t have to travel
there to see adorable puffins and incredible whales. Visit The Farne Islands
from Seahouses harbour with Serenity or Billy Shiels boat tours and you
can see thousands of colourful puffins and lazing grey seals. Humpback and
killer whales are also known to have been spotted off Northumberland’s
coastline.
JAPAN’S CHERRY BLOSSOMS
If you’ve always wanted to walk beneath Japan’s famous Taihaku cherry
blossom trees, you don’t have to travel as far as you think. Every spring,
from the end of April to the beginning of May, The Alnwick Garden boasts
the largest collection of ‘Taihaku’ cherry blossoms in the world. Comprising
of 329 trees, they all bloom for a short-but-sweet two week period, when
you can watch them fluttering above you while you wander through the
orchard and relax on the swinging benches.
NORWAY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS
Beautiful Norway is known for its dazzling Northern Lights displays and
star-studded night skies, but did you know you can see the Northern
Lights in Northumberland? We’re fortunate enough to have extremely low
levels of light pollution, making Northumberland one of the best places
in the country to go stargazing. The Northern Lights have been known to
dance over our coastline, and the whole of Northumberland National Park
and most of Kielder Water & Forest Park make up our International Dark
Sky Park. Both Kielder Observatory and Battlesteads Observatory host
awe-inspiring stargazing events, where you can see thousands of stars, the
Milky Way, and the Andromeda Galaxy with the naked eye.
MEDITERRANEAN BEACHES
Crystal clear water, pristine sand and exquisite seafood aren’t specific
to overseas. Northumberland’s coast is an official Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty, meaning it has been recognised for its distinctive character,
striking beauty and outstanding wildlife. Endless beaches, quiet bays and
countless castles sit along the stretch from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Seaton
Sluice, just waiting to be discovered.
So, consider a staycation in Northumberland this year before you book to
go abroad and explore this astounding county.