Northumberland Northeast England, England Travel Guide
Spring (March - May): Temperatures typically range from 6°C to 15°C (43-59°F). Weather can be changeable, but increasing daylight. Moderate rainfall occurs. This season brings wildflowers and new growth, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
Summer (June - August): Warmest weather, with temperatures usually between 12°C and 20°C (54-68°F), though occasional warmer days occur. Rainfall at its lowest. Long daylight hours (up to 17-18 hours in June) allow for extended exploration.
Autumn (September - November): Temperatures decrease to 7°C to 14°C (45-57°F). Rainfall increases. Autumnal foliage creates beautiful colors in forests and woodlands. Daylight hours shorten progressively.
Winter (December - February): Coldest period, with temperatures from 1°C to 7°C (34-45°F). Frost and some snow occur, especially inland or on higher ground. Daylight hours are shortest, ranging from 7-8 hours.
Plan activities according to the seasons for the most enjoyment.
Hiking & Cycling: Late Spring (May-June) and early Autumn (September-October) bring pleasant temperatures and fewer midges. Birdwatching: Spring for migratory birds (April-May) and summer for breeding colonies (Farne Islands Puffins: May-July). Stargazing: Autumn and Winter (October-March) due to longer nights and clearer skies, especially at Kielder Observatory. Castle Visits & Coastal Exploration: Summer provides the best chance for warm, sunny days. Hadrian's Wall: Spring and Autumn work well for walking the path with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Late Spring / Early Autumn
Pleasant temperatures, fewer midges.
Extreme winter cold, peak summer crowds.
Spring / Summer
Migratory birds, breeding colonies (Puffins).
Winter (fewer species present).
Autumn / Winter
Longer nights, clearer skies at Kielder Observatory.
Summer (shorter nights, more light pollution).
Northumberland sees strong winds, especially along the coast and on higher ground. Pack waterproof and windproof outerwear regardless of the season. Coastal fog also appears, notably in spring and early summer.
Midges, small biting insects, appear in wooded areas and near standing water during warmer, humid months (late spring to early autumn), notably at dawn and dusk. Consider a reliable Insect repellent, like a DEET-based repellent.
Summer provides the best chance for warm, sunny days.
Spring and Autumn allow pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Autumn and Winter feature longer nights and clearer skies.
Peak season for puffins on the Farne Islands is May-July.
Golden hours in Spring and Autumn create striking light.
Travelers to Northumberland enter the United Kingdom, which operates a visa system based on nationality. Most visitors for tourism will require a Standard Visitor visa or will be visa-exempt.
Many nationalities, including US, Canada, Australia, NZ, and EU citizens, do not require a visa for up to six months of tourism. Other nationalities apply for a Standard Visitor visa online. The process includes a form, fee, and biometrics appointment.
Upon arrival, present your passport and prepare to discuss your visit's purpose, duration, and accommodation. E-gates are available for eligible nationalities (e.g., US, Canada, EU), automating part of the immigration process.
Northumberland has options for various budgets, from frugal backpacking to luxurious castle stays. Plan your budget by considering currency, daily expenses, and money-saving methods.
The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (£, GBP). Banknotes include £5, £10, £20, and £50. Coins include 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2. Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted. ATMs are readily available in towns and larger villages. Currency exchange services are at airports and major towns. Often, withdrawing cash from an ATM upon arrival or using a travel-friendly debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees makes more sense. Carry a small amount of cash for smaller purchases or remote areas where card machines might not be present.
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £30-£60 | £70-£150 | £160+ |
| Meals | £20-£35 | £40-£70 | £80+ |
| Transportation | £10-£25 | £30-£60 | £60+ |
| Activities/Attractions | £10-£20 | £25-£50 | £50+ |
| Miscellaneous | £5-£10 | £10-£20 | £20+ |
| Total Daily Cost | £75-£150 | £175-£350 | £370+ |
Northumberland represents a safe destination.
No specific vaccinations for UK entry. Confirm standard immunizations are up-to-date with your healthcare provider.
Hypothermia risk if inadequately dressed. Sunburn risk even on cloudy days; apply sunscreen.
Midges appear in summer; use Insect repellent. Ticks present in grassy areas; check after outdoor activities. A Head net for midges can be helpful in specific areas like Kielder.
Emergency: Dial 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Non-Emergency Medical Advice: Dial 111 (NHS 111 service). Pharmacies are widely available. Major hospitals with A&E departments are in larger towns and nearby cities (e.g., Hexham, Cramlington, Newcastle). NHS provides free emergency treatment; non-emergency care may have charges for visitors.
Tap water in Northumberland is safe to drink. Carry a reusable Water bottle to refill and reduce plastic waste. Food hygiene standards are high.
Image: A sign for Northumberland National Park.
Northumberland has a low crime rate, especially in rural areas. General caution for valuables and surroundings.
Flooding in low-lying areas during heavy rain. Strong coastal tides around Holy Island. Unstable cliffs; heed warning signs. Winter brings snow/ice affecting rural roads.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, personal liability. Check policy coverage for planned activities. Consider World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.
Keep these contact details readily available.
Air travel disruptions can qualify for compensation.
Passengers facing significant flight delays may be entitled to compensation.
Flight cancellations often lead to compensation rights.
Service for compensation for delayed or canceled flights. AirHelp assists passengers.
