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How to Get to Northumberland

How to Get to Northumberland

Northumberland Northeast England, England Travel Guide

Airport Facilities and Transfers

Major Airports & Airlines

Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is the main gateway. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) provides an alternative with more international routes. Teesside International (MME) is smaller.

Direct Flight Considerations

  • NCL serves domestic and European flights.
  • EDI provides wider international links, especially from North America.
  • Flight prices peak in summer and school holidays; shoulder seasons often deliver better value. Check for deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Transfer Options

Efficient transfers from Newcastle and Edinburgh airports connect travelers to Northumberland.

Getting to Northumberland

  • NCL: Metro direct to Newcastle city center (25 min), then train or car rental.
  • Taxis/ride-share are available from both airports.
  • Car rental desks are at airports. Pre-booking a Car rental through DiscoverCars.com is highly recommended.

Newcastle Airport NCL

Main airport for direct access to Northumberland.

Edinburgh Airport EDI

Wider range of international flights, 1.5-2 hours north.

Teesside Airport MME

Smaller, mostly domestic connections, south of Northumberland.

Airport Facilities & Travel Efficiency

Airport Amenities

  • All airports offer standard facilities: car rental desks, duty-free shopping.
  • Restaurants, cafes, ATMs, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Amenities are available upon arrival and before departure.
  • Lounges and other traveler services are common.

Transfer Efficiency

  • Metro from NCL directly to Newcastle city center streamlines connections.
  • Tram and bus links from EDI to Edinburgh city center assist onward travel.
  • A rental car is highly recommended for exploring Northumberland's dispersed attractions.
  • Pre-booking transfers and rental cars can save time and money.

Flight Price Fluctuations

Summer Peak

Highest flight prices during June-August due to peak demand.

Shoulder Season Value

April-May and September-October often deliver better value.

Winter Lows

Generally lowest fares from November-March, excluding holidays.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Services

Train travel is a common method for reaching and moving within Northumberland. The East Coast Main Line runs along the coast, connecting London and Edinburgh.

Train Information

  • Stations in Northumberland: Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnmouth, Chathill.
  • Railcards offer discounts for eligible travelers (e.g., 26-30 Railcard, Senior Railcard).

Long-Distance Bus Options

National Express coaches provide services to Newcastle upon Tyne from various UK cities. From Newcastle, local bus services extend into Northumberland, but coverage can be infrequent in rural areas.

Bus Travel Notes

  • More affordable than trains, but journeys take longer.
  • Check local bus schedules carefully, especially for rural routes.
  • Sunday and public holiday services are often reduced.

Self-Driving Considerations

A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring Northumberland due to its dispersed attractions and limited public transport in rural areas.

Driving Rules & Tips

  • Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Valid full driving license or International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
  • Consider a UK road map for offline navigation. A Car phone mount is useful.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads are generally good. Rural roads can be narrow and winding. Exercise caution, especially in remote areas.

Rural Road Awareness

  • Awareness of livestock on rural roads, notably in the National Park.
  • Roads can become slippery or icy in winter; check forecasts.
  • Observe posted speed limits. Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Important Driving Laws

  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal.
  • Pay and display parking is common; adhere to signs to avoid fines.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced.
  • Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Bluetooth earpieces are for mobile calls, but hands-free use is safest.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Ports

While not the main arrival method for most tourists, sea travel has an alternative route to the North East.

Amsterdam Ferry Route

  • DFDS Seaways operates an overnight ferry to and from Amsterdam (Ijmuiden).
  • This ferry transports both passengers and vehicles, ideal for those traveling from mainland Europe.
  • From North Shields, transport links (Metro, bus, taxi) connect to Newcastle city center and Northumberland.

River Transportation & Cruises

River transportation is not for long-distance arrival. Cruise ships typically dock in nearby major cities, not directly within Northumberland.

Local & Cruise Insights

  • No major cruise ports directly within Northumberland.
  • Cruise ships dock in Newcastle or Edinburgh (Rosyth/Forth Ports).
  • Local river trips may be available for leisure but not for county arrival or departure.

Ferry from Amsterdam

Overnight service from Ijmuiden, Netherlands, to North Shields (Newcastle).

Cruise Ship Docks

Cruise ships typically dock in Newcastle or Edinburgh, not Northumberland.

Land Connections

Metro, bus, and taxi links from ferry terminal to Newcastle transport hubs.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Protocols

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth end to your Northumberland adventure.

Check-in and Timing

  • No separate exit fees at UK airports. Air Passenger Duty (APD) is included in flight ticket prices.
  • International flights: Arrive at NCL or EDI at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.

Train Station Departure

Departing by train has a more straightforward process without formal check-ins.

Ease of Departure

  • Arrive at the train station 15-30 minutes before departure.
  • No formal check-in procedures for trains; find your platform.
  • Train stations have waiting areas, toilets, and often cafes or shops.

Airport Facilities & Travel Considerations

Airport Amenities

Check-in desks, security screening, duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and ATMs are available.

Car Rental Returns

Allow extra time during peak season or when returning a rental car.

Connecting Travel

Consider onward train or bus connections from airport stations.

Departure Tip

Confirm flight or train schedules and terminal information for a smooth departure.