Getting Around Northumberland. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Overview of Public Transit Systems

Buses are the main form of public transport within Northumberland, connecting major towns and some villages. Services can be sparse and infrequent in rural areas, especially on weekends or evenings. Buses serve well for shorter journeys or connecting to train stations.

Trains along the East Coast Main Line connect coastal towns like Berwick-upon-Tweed and Alnmouth. The Tyne Valley Line runs west from Newcastle, serving Hexham and Hadrian's Wall country. The Tyne and Wear Metro system serves Newcastle and Gateshead, connecting to Newcastle International Airport and coastal towns, but does not extend deep into rural Northumberland.

Public Transport

Buses: Main form, varying coverage, check schedules.
Trains: Coastal and Hadrian's Wall access.
Metro: Newcastle and surrounding urban areas only.
No tram system operates in Northumberland itself.

Route Maps & Hubs

Bus hubs in Alnwick, Hexham, Berwick-upon-Tweed. Newcastle Central Station is the main regional rail hub. Route info online via operators or Traveline North East.

Ticketing & Fares

Buses: cash/contactless, day passes. Trains: paper/e-tickets, Railcards for discounts. Metro: station machines, Pop Pay As You Go smartcards.

Hours & Frequency

Bus services from early morning to late evening, but rural routes might have few services daily. Train services generally run similarly. Check schedules in advance.

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Accessibility Information

Newer buses and trains are generally wheelchair accessible.
Older vehicles may have limitations.
Check specific station accessibility on National Rail Enquiries.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Plan journeys in advance using online planners.
Mobile phone with reliable data for live updates.
A car is often the most practical option for comprehensive sightseeing due to limited public transport in remote areas.

Common Transport Costs

Local Bus Fare

£2-£5 per single journey

Train Short Trip

£10-£20 (e.g., Newcastle to Alnmouth)

Day Passes

Available from bus operators, usually more cost-effective for multiple trips.

Metro Ticket

Varies by zone, Pop Pay As You Go offers best value.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a convenient, direct method of travel, notably useful for shorter distances or when public transport is unavailable.

Licensed Taxis & Hailing

Black Cabs (Hackney Carriages) are mainly in larger towns like Newcastle.
Hail them on the street or find at designated taxi ranks. They operate on a meter.
Private Hire Vehicles (Minicabs) are for advance booking only.
All licensed taxis display license plates from the local council.

Fares & Ride-Sharing Apps

Fares vary by location and time. Short journeys in towns are £5-£15.
Many taxis accept card payments; carrying cash is wise for smaller towns.
Uber is available in Newcastle upon Tyne and some larger towns but less common in rural Northumberland.
Search local app stores for "taxi Northumberland" for local options.

Safety Considerations

Always use licensed taxis or pre-booked private hire vehicles.
Never enter an unmarked car offering a ride.
If using a ride-sharing app, confirm vehicle and driver match booking details.

Keep your mobile phone charged for emergency calls.
Share your journey details with a trusted contact.
Familiarize yourself with the general route.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Minimum age 21 (surcharges for under 25). Valid license. IDP for non-English licenses. Major companies at Newcastle Airport (DiscoverCars.com).

Bicycle Rentals

Available near popular cycling routes like Kielder Water & Forest Park, Alnwick, and the Northumberland Coast.

Other Rentals

Motorcycle/scooter rentals less common. No tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Walking & Cycling

Northumberland has wonderful opportunities for walking and cycling, with dedicated paths and scenic routes.

Walking Routes & Tours

Northumberland Coast Path: 62-mile long-distance path.
Hadrian's Wall Path: 84-mile National Trail, much in Northumberland.
Northumberland National Park: Extensive network of walking trails. Consider a Northumberland walking guidebook.
Guided walking tours available, especially for Hadrian's Wall and coastal areas.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Designated cycle routes: Hadrian's Cycleway, Coast and Castles route.
Kielder Water & Forest Park: Dedicated mountain biking and family-friendly trails.
Always wear a Helmet and use lights. A Bike helmet is a useful safety item.
Rural roads can be narrow for cyclists; opt for quieter routes.

No-Go Areas & Protected Zones

Pedestrian Restrictions

No specific no-go areas. Caution on busy roads lacking pavements or cycle paths.

Prioritize designated safe routes.

Cycling Zones

Stick to designated paths in natural areas to protect sensitive environments.

Respect nature reserve guidelines.

Private Land Access

Respect private property. Access to private land may require landowner permission.

Observe all signage.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off services like in major cities.
Local tour operators offer day trips to Hadrian's Wall or castles from Newcastle.
Farne Islands: Boat trips depart from Seahouses for wildlife viewing (puffins, seals).

Kielder Water & Accessibility

Kielder Water: Passenger ferries connect points around the reservoir.
Northumberland has no cable cars or funiculars.
Accessibility varies. Check specific attractions or transport providers.

Mobility Challenges at Heritage Sites

Historical Terrain

Many heritage sites, especially castles and Roman ruins, present challenges.
Uneven terrain, steps, and historic structures can pose difficulties.
Prior contact with sites is advisable for specific accessibility details.

Information Resources

The Northumberland Coast AONB provides information on accessible coastal routes.
Contact attractions directly to confirm accessibility arrangements before your visit.
Some sites offer virtual tours or limited accessible routes.

Final Navigation Advice

While public transport connects locations, a car often has the most comprehensive way to explore Northumberland's vast and varied landscapes.

Consider a mix of transport methods to suit your itinerary and travel style. Local information centers are a good resource for current timetables and advice.

Getting Around Northumberland