Northumberland Northeast England, England Travel Guide
Northumberland's varied landscapes create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Easy: Coastal walks (Bamburgh Beach), Kielder Forest family trails. Moderate: Hadrian's Wall Path sections, Cheviot Hills foothills. Challenging: Full day walks in the Cheviot Hills.
Consult Ordnance Survey maps or specialist walking guidebooks for routes and safety.
Challenging treks require good physical condition and proper preparation.
For all outdoor activities, check weather conditions and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Many areas are remote, so inform someone of your plans.
Engage with Northumberland's heritage and local life beyond the major attractions.
Visiting local markets and attending local events directly benefits communities and has authentic experiences.
Support local businesses and artisans. Formal community-based tourism initiatives are limited.
Northumberland's main language is English. Language learning is not a main focus for tourism.
Berwick Food & Beer Festival (Autumn): Showcases local produce and craft beverages.
Alnwick Food Festival (Autumn): A similar focus on food and drink, drawing many visitors.
Northumberland County Show (May): An agricultural show with traditional displays, for a glimpse into rural life.
Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amidst Northumberland's peaceful settings.
Local pubs often host live folk music, open mic nights, or cover bands, especially on weekends. Alnwick Playhouse and Queen's Hall Arts Centre (Hexham) host professional music acts and theatre performances.
Nightclubs and dedicated dancing venues are very limited in Northumberland. They are mainly found in Newcastle upon Tyne. Towns like Alnwick and Hexham have traditional pubs for an evening out.
Most entertainment revolves around pubs, which typically close around 11 PM to midnight.
Hexham Market (Tuesday, Saturday), Alnwick Market (Thursday, Saturday), Berwick-upon-Tweed Market (Saturday). These share local produce, crafts, and other goods.
Numerous small independent shops and workshops sell local crafts (pottery, jewelry, textiles, art) in villages and towns like Corbridge, Alnwick, and Bamburgh.
Luxury shopping is limited in Northumberland itself; visit Newcastle for extensive options. Support local businesses and products made locally ("Made in Northumberland").
Discover local crafts, produce, and unique souvenirs in Northumberland.
Especially from coastal areas like Seahouses, these are popular and charming reminders.
On local history, castles, or walking guides, these offer lasting insights into the region.
Most shops do not offer international shipping directly. Arrange this independently. Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.
Market days and opening hours for artisan shops can vary, especially seasonally. Confirm before visiting.
The local currency is GBP (£). Most shops accept card payments, but small market stalls might prefer cash.
Consider bringing reusable bags for your purchases to support environmental efforts.
Support local businesses and artisans to help the region's economy. Opt for products that are locally sourced or crafted.
