Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
The Queens Head in Rothbury has a traditional bar and restaurant offering a choice of bar snacks or full restaurant menu. The village is surrounded by some of the finest scenery in Northumberland.
This welcoming country inn is well-known locally for its good food and warm hospitality. It is perfectly situated for walkers enjoying the ""St Cuthbert's Way"" national trail, which runs between Melrose and the magical island of Lindisfarne.
Serving fine fresh food seven days a week, from pensioners' lunches to traditional Sunday carvery. There's a fine selection of wines and beers, too.
Conveniently positioned in the old town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, the Queen's Head has a menu that caters for all tastes and appetites. Dishes are seasonal and freshly prepared to order. Pub food is served either at the bar or in the restaurant, where you can also enjoy a 3 course meal.
Fun Days Out
Castle Mania is a massive indoor play centre built for kids, with rope bridges, slides and one of the biggest play frames in the north.
This 15? gauge steam railway runs over 2 miles from Heatherslaw to Etal Village - a return journey of 50 minutes.
"The Barn at Beal" is a visitor centre which aims to educate people about the important role of agriculture. The spectacular surroundings of the Northumbrian coast and nearby island of Lindsfarne offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor walks and wildlife spotting. Facilities include a bird of prey centre, various workshops and a cafe/restaurant.
Pot-a-Doodle Do, just south of Berwick-upon-Tweed, has activities for all ages. Choose from painting and pottery, fishing, quad biking or walking on the beautiful Northumberland coastline.
Whatever the weather, you can have a great day out at Harestanes Countryside Visitor Centre. There's lots of events, children's activities, exhibitions and walks for all the family. And the biggest play park in the Borders!
As well as being voted the country's most tranquil spot, this park is truly is a haven for walking, cycling and horse riding.
The 2 well stocked lakes at quizzically-named Conundrum Farm make for a great day's fishing. There's plenty to entertain the children too, including farmyard animals, play areas and pedal tractors. There's also a café, shop and award-winning restaurant to enjoy.
Beach
Embleton Bay Beach - 14.4 Miles (23 KM)
A charming beach that is the perfect place to while away the hours. Easy access to the beach from the road makes this a popular choice for those who enjoy water sports such as windsurfing.
Berwick Upon Tweed - 25.4 Miles (40.6 KM)
Another of this spectacular coastline's great sandy beaches. A large expanse of rocks are exposed at high tide.
Biking & Hiking
Rothbury Town Walk - 6.5 Miles (10.4 KM)
A short 2 mile walk around Rothbury, going past local points of interest and giving you a small amount of history about the town. Walk time of approximately 1 hour.
Whitton Hillhead Walk - 6.6 Miles (10.6 KM)
This is a nice gentle walk that climbs up to 212 metres at Whitton Hillhead where you can experience stunning views of the Simonside Hills.
Cragside Carriageway Walk - 6.6 Miles (10.6 KM)
A beautiful walk with impressive and dramatic views of Rothbury. The route takes the walker along the old carriageway of Cragside Estate.
This 268 mile walk runs from the Peak District National Park along the Pennine Ridge, through the Yorkshire Dales and into Northumberland to finish at Kirk Yetholm.
A gentle 2 mile walk through some lovely farmland, past the beautiful St Mary?s Magdalene Church and the impressive 5-sided keep in Mitford Castle.
A circular trail at the heart of the Scottish Borders passes by four 12th century abbeys and through several border towns. The 64.5 mile walk is split into 5 sections of roughly equal distances.
A long distance trek at 62.5 miles. The route takes you across the Scottish Borders all the way to the Northumberland coast. Begin at Melrose, where St. Cuthbert began his early work and finish at the holy site of Lindisfarne where he completed his later works and died. Lindisfarne is a fascinating destination as it is where the first Vikings first landed in 793AD and is steeped in history. Along the way there are links with the famous, Sir Walter Scott Way, the Roman Heritage Way and the Pennine Way.
Golf & Sports
Shipley Lane has great facilities, and whether you are a child or adult, complete beginner of the most experienced rider, you'll find Shipley friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.
You'll get an entirely different and exhilarating perspective of the glorious rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and limitless beauty of the Northumberland National Park and unspoilt coastline as you glide slowly through the sky.
Offering adrenaline fuelled outdoor adventure across the board, including abseiling, climbing, kayaking and canoeing.
Coquet provide water based activities for all ages from windsurfing to sailing, canoeing and power boating. RYA registered.
Clay pigeon shooting for all ages in a carefully controlled environment with fully qualified instructors, where safety is of the utmost importance.
Perched on the basalt outcrops overlooking the ancient fortress from which it takes its name, this fine and beautiful course lies in the heart of Bamburgh.
Goswick Golf Club is set in the most beautiful scenery in Northumberland, a little off the beaten track, it is a friendly and welcoming club. It is a traditional seaside links course that is well laid out and remains open all year round. This well established course is beautifully maintained and the course is in great condition with gorgeous sea views. The course offers a number of challenging holes and caters to all level of player, there a number of long holes, the greens are fast, the fairways are tight and undulating, the bunkers are deep, the rough is not too long, there are lateral water hazards, and you can get blustery winds off the coast. The staff throughout the club are lovely, really friendly, helpful and professional, the pro shop is well stocked. The clubhouse has excellent facilities, it is comfortable and cosy, the menu offers a great selection of wholesome home cooked dishes that are tasty, well cooked and presented and offer excellent value too. Goswick Golf Club is a a lovely friendly club offering a challenging but rewarding game of golf with really reasonable green fees, a real gem that should not be missed.
This course is situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders amidst rolling hills and breathtaking scenery. It offers members and visitors of all abilities an enjoyable round of golf over a challenging layout.
This community 25m swimming pool offers a range of facilities including a steam room, fitness suite, café and soft play area for under 5'. There's also general fun sessions for all the family.
Magdalene Fields Golf Club is located close to the ancient town of Berwick Upon Tweed and is the most northerly golf course in England. It is a very scenic well established parkland course, with the most fantastic views, it is located next to the cliffs of Northumberland, on one side are the protective city walls and on the opposite side are beautiful sea views. The course is in great condition, it is well maintained, the greens are wonderful, true and straight, the fairways are undulating. There are a number of challenges in the course, the rough is very punishing and there are winds coming in off the coast. It is a very friendly and welcoming club and the staff throughout are very nice, friendly, helpful and professional. The clubhouse is warm and inviting and the perfect way to round off a game of golf, it has a lovely relaxed atmosphere and the menu contains the usual favourites, the food is tasty and well cooked, portions are large and very good value for money. Magdalene Fields Golf Club offers a lovely course that makes for a good test of golf, the golf fees are excellent value and the views are lovely, well worth playing.
Nature Reserves
Working farm in beautiful countryside with a huge range of attractions including rare breeds of farm animals and deer herds, Ranger led activities and nature walks, indoor/outdoor play areas, Bird of prey demonstrations and tuition, and much, much more.
Gardens & Woodlands
Among its many delights, Alnwick Garden is home to one of the world's largest wooden tree houses, with walkways in the sky, rope bridges and a fantastic place to eat in the treetops.
This country park includes 3 miles of beautiful beach and sand dunes, as well as a 100 acre lake surrounded by woods and meadows. Keep an eye out for numerous species of birds and plantlife, in addition to seeking out the brilliant archaeological trails around the area.
Bolam Lake - 19.1 Miles (30.6 KM)
Set at the very heart of the beautiful Northumberland countryside, this lake is surrounded on all sides by sites of historic importance and stunning views. Explore the woodland and grassed areas in the vicinity.
Whalton Manor Gardens are private gardens that comprise of three acres and are located in the charming village of Whalton in the heart of Northumberland. The gardens date to the 17th century and have been lovingly restored, they are absolutely stunning and are brimming with colourful and aromas, it has some fantastic planting being designed by Lutyens with assistance from Gertrude Jekyll as well as having impressive architectural structures, like the Italianate summerhouse. Other areas of interest are the magnificent walled garden, a large stone paved courtyard, summerhouses, pergolas, a rose garden and stunning herbaceous borders. The gardens are open from April through to October, appointments must be made in advance as they are not open to the public, details are on the website. A tour will take about an hour to an hour and a half and they can be adapted to cater to your requirements, you will be advised on the creation and upkeep of these beautiful gardens, the tours are informative and interesting, the owner Penny is so passionate. Afterwards you can enjoy a delicious wholesome home-cooked lunch or cream tea in the lovely surroundings of the garden. You can purchase a selection of perennial plants, that are grown here. During the year they organise a number of events to showcase the beauty of the gardens with Open days and also productions of Shakespeare's plays are shown. Whalton Manor Gardens are a real treasure and a must if you are an ardent garden lover, or if you just enjoy the beauty of flowers and plants.
Set in the centre of Coldstream, these gardens attract visitors and locals to their viewpoint over the River Tweed, Cheviot Hills and the surrounding countryside. At the viewpoint stands a stone monument to the Coldstream Guard.
Positioned as a series of terraces, these beautiful gardens are a tranquil place to visit and relax in. Stunning water features provide a mirror to the gardens and are set amongst Rodgersias, Rheums and Bamboo to name but a few.
Set in 100 acres of woodland, meadows and riverside. This is the ideal spot for a family day out in the countryside.
Hirsel Estate offers something for ornithologist, botanist, forester, zoologist, archaeologist and historian alike. Homestead museum shows the estate's past and present. There are craft units and a geogems display as well as a tearoom and children's playground.
At one time part of the Abbey grounds, these lovely gardens were a gift for the Kelso War Memorial from the Duke of Roxburgh in 1921. The gardens are now an enchanting place to visit in spring and summer. Take a seat and unwind and enjoy their splendour and the views of Kelso Abbey.
Built in 1758 on a ridge overlooking the majestic River Tweed, Paxton House is one of the finest 18th century Palladian country houses in Britain. Discover its wonderful country park and beautiful setting. With its huge range of activities and attractions from walks and nature trails, to wildlife viewing hides for red squirrels, croquet lawn, 9 hole putting green and two adventure playparks, Paxton House is not just a country house but a fantastic day out for everyone!
Encompassing over 30 acres, these lovely gardens include immaculate lawns, woodland and meet the flood plain of the River Teviot at the far end of their reach. Many distinct gardens join together in the original section to ensure there is always something of interest in bloom all year round. A wonderful place to explore with all the family.
Encompassing 26 acres of garden, this varied garden is a great place to relax, unwind and while away the hours in. Admire the kitchen garden, feature specimen trees, azaleas and fascinating Arboretum.
Local Attractions
Puffin Cruises are a long established family run business located at Amble harbour, they offer boat trips to Coquet Island. This island is an RSPB reserve and is home to a diverse range of nesting sea birds like Puffins, Terns, Cormorants, Kittiwakes and Eider ducks with more than 40,000 resident here during the summer months. A Grey Seal colony has also made its home here at the east side of the island. There are two boats that are both very clean and well maintained, there is also indoor seating if needed on them. Staff are lovely, very friendly, animated and extremely knowledgeable, they have so much information on the local area and wildlife. A tour lasts about an hour and takes you right up close to the island so you get the best views, so make sure to take a camera. The tours are kept small with only twelve people taken on a trip. It is best to book in advance to avoid disappointment, details are on their website along with sailing times although they do operate tours on most days during the summer months weather permitting. Puffin Cruises are really friendly, professional and knowledgeable and offer an excellent opportunity to get to see these sea birds up close in their natural habitat, and their prices are very reasonable, a must if you are in the area.
Whitehouse Farm Centre is located close to Morpeth and is a a family run Farm that extends to more than forty acres. It is a real hands on attraction, you get to see, hold and feed a diverse range of animals from domestic pets to more unusual and exotic species. There is always something happening to keep everyone entertained, from talks to feeding the animals. There are also indoor and outdoor play areas, with trampolines, bouncy castles and slides. You can also take a tractor ride, or have a go on the indoor racing cars. Nelsons Pig Trough cafe is warm and welcoming and serves a nice selection of home cooked breakfasts, lunches and light snacks that are tasty and well priced. There are also lots of picnic areas if you want to take along your own food. The Gift Shop has a large selection of gifts for all ages, they are not too expensive and there is something to suit every pocket. They are open daily from April through to August and at other times it is mainly just weekends, the website has full details. The staff are lovely, really friendly and helpful. The whole place is clean and well maintained and the facilities are excellent, the animals are well cared for and look very healthy. Whitehouse Farm Centre is a brilliant day out for all the family and has lots of activities to keep everyone entertained, it has great facilities and is excellent value for money too.
Inside a stunning early 19th century seed merchants' warehouse, work previously exhibited only in Edinburgh or London hangs next to well known local artists such as Linda Hatrick and Tom Bromley. There's also a spectacular display of ceramics by John Marjoribanks Edgerton.
Chain Bridge Honey Farm is a family run business that dates back to 1948 when it was first established. The farm is located in a beautiful setting close to the village of Horncliffe and the Union Chain Bridge amongst the stunning Northumberland countryside. They specialise in natural honey products with everything from honeycombs to beekeeping books. The products are all made using their own honey and produced by them. All staff are family members and have a hands on approach to the business with everyone involved along the line, they are all so friendly, knowledgeable and passionate. The visitor centre is open daily and there is no charge for entry, here you get an intriguing and fascinating insight into bees and honey, it covers all aspects of the bee, honey wax and propolis, the various different species of bees, bumble bees and wasps, as well as a observation hive where you can observe a colony of bees in full activity. The walls are adorned with beautiful exhibits and murals, real works of art and labours of love. Next door is a tractor shed and here you will find an impressive array of restored vintage motor vehicles and machinery including tractors, a Lanz Bulldog, Caterpillars, caravan, London Bus and more as well as a interesting display of vintage memorabilia. Honey Bus Cafe is found in a double decker bus, this comfortable and welcoming cafe serves a delicious selection of honey based produce and beverages. All products produced are available to buy and make for lovely gifts. Chain Bridge Honey Farm gives a unique and intriguing glimpse in to these hard working and often undervalued insects, it makes for a great day out for all, a real gem of an establishment with the nicest people around, highly recommended if you are in the area.
The Maltings Theatre and Cinema is found in the town centre close to the high street of Marygate, it enjoys a unique position on the border between England and Scotland. It serves as a mixed use venue presenting both live theatre, dance, music, comedy as much more as well as films and events, classes, workshops as well as visual arts exhibitions. It is a really nice bespoke theatre that consists of the Main House Theatre, the Henry Travers Studio, the Maltings Kitchen Restaurant and Stage Door Bar. They showcase an extensive and diverse range of productions throughout the year and are a leading independent cinema. It has state of the art facilities with excellent acoustics and lighting, the seating is comfortable and you are assured a view of the stage regardless off where you sit. Staff are very friendly and helpful and make your visit here even more pleasant. The Maltings is a real asset to the town, great quality productions that are superb value, lovely friendly atmosphere, it makes for an ideal night out.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Craigside House and Gardens are unique in that it was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. It enjoys an enviable elevated location close to the village of Morpeth in the stunning countryside of Northumberland. This beautiful historic house was renovated by Lord Armstrong a Victorian inventor and landscape genius, it was a phenomenon of its time having a number of creative and innovative gadgets with many of them still working today. The interior is luxurious and has many original features, stunning intricate plaster work furnishings and furniture, the craftsmanship is superb. The gardens are equally amazing, they are home to one of the biggest rock gardens in Europe that takes you down to the Iron Bridge, this then takes you to the formal garden, there are also woodlands, a river and lake. For children there is an adventure play area and also Nelly's Labyrinth to explore. There are a number of paths and tunnels carved out of a large expanse of rhododendron forest. You can either walk around the grounds or drive your car around the six mile estate drive, or take the shuttle bus. The house and gardens are open from February through November and are open everyday except Mondays, there is a charge for entry and this depends on the time of year you visit. The tea rooms are welcoming and comfortable and offer a nice selection of lunches and snacks sourced from local suppliers. Throughout the year a number of events and activities take place that are entertaining and will appeal to everyone. Craigside House is a truly fabulous house in a fantastic location with stunning grounds, beautiful views and loads of history, there is something to appeal to everyone, a must see if you are in Northumberland.
This beautiful castle will never fail to take your breath away. Packed full of history and used as a location for many favourite films such as Harry Potter and Elizabeth you will be sure of a fabulous time. Take a guided tour and learn about medieval life and keep your eyes out for the brilliant events always on offer.
Awesome castle ruins are all that's left of one of the grandest forts in northern England. They still dominate a lonely stretch of Northumberland's coastline, with great panoramic views from the cliff tops.
Heatherslaw Mill is a 19th century water-powered corn mill situated on the Ford and Etal Estate. Still producing wholemeal flour from locally grown wheat, the water wheel, mill stones and gearing are all on show, giving a fascinating insight into days gone by. The freshly milled flour can be purchased from the gift shop along with other country fare.
A wonderful 16th-century castle commanding stunning views across a beautiful part of Northumberland. Visit the lovely gardens surrounding this famous castle and take in the dramatic scenery. Just watch out for the tide coming in!
A local history museum with a section on the Coldstream Guards, a temporary exhibitions gallery, children's corner and courtyard with fountain and picnic area.
Set in peaceful and scenic gardens, the house tells the story of the life of the tragic Queen, who herself visited Jedburgh in 1556, staying in this Bastille House. A good range of souvenirs and books are for sale and audio tours are available.
One of the border abbeys, founded by David I around 1138 for Augustinian canons. The church is built in the Romanesque and early Gothic styles and is remarkably complete. Finds from the excavations of the cloister buildings are on display. (Limited wheelchair access)
Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland, is home to the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe and their family. Overlooking the River Tweed and Cheviot Hills, it was designed in 1721 by William Adam, who was both master-builder and architect for the first Duke.(Dogs on leads welcome in the grounds)
Built in 1820 Jedburgh Castle Jail is an important example of Howard Reform Prison architecture. Displays explore the development of the Jail and what it would have been like to be a prisoner and a guard.
The Elizabethan Walls have served to protect the town on Berwick-upon-Tweed for hundreds of years. The town over the years has changed hands between England and Scotland an incredible thirteen times. These fortifications are mostly intact having withstood numerous attacks over the years, making Berwick one of the most important fortified towns in Europe. The first fortifications started in 1296 but those that we see today are the artillery ramparts and work commenced on these in 1558 and continued until 1568 when it ceased, further modifications were made in the 17th century. They have many features including a circular fortification known as Lord's Mount, Cumberland Bastions being one of the first and best preserved bastions, Brass Bastion, Windmill Bastion and the Powder Magazine. It is possible to walk the whole way around the town using these fortifications, there is lots of information provided along the way on boards, giving the history of the city and particular points of interest on the walk. There are lovely views and you can see for miles on a clear day but do be careful, there are some steep areas and others where there are sheer drops. These impressive fortifications were so successful owing to their sturdy construction and design. The ramparts stand at approximately six metres high, then there is rampart earthwork above that is about another five metres in height, the walls are faced in grey limestone. Outside there was a broad, deep ditch or moat and then on the other side there would have been a high retaining wall that resembled the rampart. The Elizabethan Walls are a must if you are in the region steeped in history and architectural detail as well as brilliant views.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard is located in historic barracks dating to the 18th century and are located in the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. The barracks are impressive and are well preserved, they have a fascinating history, cover a large area and you can walk around the parade ground and ramparts, where you get great views. A visit will give you a glimpse into the life of the British infantryman from the Civil War through to the First World War. There is an interesting collection of war artefacts including, guns, medals, papers, photos, uniforms and silverware. There are also intriguing insights into the regiments, their history, as well as information on the soldiers involved in conflicts around the world over the years. In addition there are other temporary exhibits and permanent exhibits on show. It is well laid out and displayed and there is lots of information pertaining to the different items on display. They are open from March through to October from 10.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, there is a small charge for entry. Berwick-upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard is a must for any military enthusiast although there is plenty to keep everyone entertained, it is an informative and interesting venue.
Hume Castle - 27.7 Miles (44.3 KM)
A 13th century castle with superb views. Once one of the most formidable castle fortresses on the eastern Borders, it played a significant role in British history. The last battle it faced was during the Civil War, when Cromwell's well equipped army destroyed the castle with explosives.
Sited high on a rocky outcrop, Smailholm is a small rectangular tower set within a stone barmkin wall. Inside the tower is a charming collection of costume figures and tapestries relating to Sir Walter Scott's Minstrelsy of the Scottish Borders.
A superb Georgian house designed by William and Robert Adam with exquisite plaster ceilings, fine period furniture and marvellous art collection including work by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Ramsay, Aitken and Nasmyth. Courtyard tea-room and gift shop; extensive grounds.
St Mary's Lighthouse and Visitor Centre is an iconic landmark here in Tyneside, it can only be accessed when the tide is out or at low tide and is reached by a short causeway, it is in effect on its own island. The Lighthouse dates back to 1898 when this area of coast was treacherous for shipping. It continued to operate until 1984 when modern techniques intervened and made it redundant. However, since them it has taken on a new purpose along with the former light keepers cottages it now serves as a museum and visitor centre. The encircling Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of marine life and sea birds who habitat the rock pools, clifftop grasslands and beach, it is a great place to bird watch and is so tranquil and peaceful here. The ground floor serves as a small museum relating to rich maritime history of Tyneside that is told through displays, photographs and artefacts, you can even find out what qualities were necessary to be a lighthouse keeper. A long climb to the top (137 steps) of the open stairs will reward you with the most fantastic perspectives of Whitley Bay and far beyond. The centre is open most days from May through to September, as well as weekends and school holidays in the winter, although it is dependant on tidal conditions. There is a small charge for entry. There is no cafe here just a small gift shop and a vending machine. St Mary's Lighthouse and Visitor centre is great for a family day out, the children will love crossing the causeway especially at low tide, climbing the lighthouse tower and examining the rock pools, you might even encounter a friendly seal, a fantastic day out for all ages. Just keep on eye on the tide times as you could be stranded here for a few hours.
