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Northumberland is a historic and scenic county in the north-east of England, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Bordering Scotland to the north, the North Sea to the east, and several other English counties to the south and west, Northumberland is England's northernmost county. It is a place of dramatic contrasts, from wild moorlands and pristine beaches to ancient castles and vibrant market towns. Northumberland is a county steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. From the ancient Roman legacy of Hadrian's Wall to the medieval grandeur of its castles, Northumberland offers a wealth of historical experiences.

Towns and cities

Newcastle upon Tyne

England's northernmost metropolitan borough, located on the River Tyne's northern bank opposite Gateshead to the south. Throughout the Middle Ages, Newcastle was England's northern fortress. In 1400 Newcastle was separated from Northumberland for administrative purposes. In 1972 the government decided to call the whole area Tyneside which upset the people from Sunderland who live in Wearside so the government amended the name to form the Metropolitan county of Tyne & Wear. Newcastle has a rich and diverse history that spans over 2,000 years. From its origins as a Roman settlement to its role as a major industrial centre during the Industrial Revolution, Newcastle has played a significant role in British history. Following the Norman Conquest in 1066, the strategic importance of Newcastle was recognized by the Normans. In 1080, Robert Curthose, the eldest son of William the Conqueror, ordered the construction of a "New Castle" on the site of the old Roman fort.

Hexham:

Historic market town located in the south-west of Northumberland, near the River Tyne. It is known for its beautiful medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Hexham Abbey is a stunning example of early English architecture, the abbey dates back to the 7th century. Hexham Old Gaol is the oldest purpose-built prison in England, now a museum showcasing the town’s history.

Morpeth:

County town of Northumberland, known for its attractive riverside setting and lively market. Carlisle Park is a beautiful park with formal gardens, riverside walks, and a William Turner Garden. Morpeth Chantry medieval bridge and 13th-century chapel, now housing a craft centre and tourist information.

Berwick-upon-Tweed:

Situated on the northernmost edge of Northumberland, Berwick-upon-Tweed is a historic town with a turbulent past, having changed hands between England and Scotland numerous times. A well-preserved set of Elizabethan town walls offering scenic walks and views over the town and coast. Berwick Barracks and Museums features exhibits on the town’s military history, including the King’s Own Scottish Borderers. A picturesque area where the River Tweed meets the North Sea, ideal for walking and wildlife spotting.

Alnwick:

Picturesque market town famous for its grand castle and beautiful gardens. Often called the “Windsor of the North,” the castle is the seat of the Duke of Northumberland and a popular tourist attraction. Alnwick Garden is a contemporary garden with unique features, including the Poison Garden and a large tree house.

Rothbury:

Nestled in the Coquet Valley, Rothbury is a small town known for its scenic beauty and as a gateway to the Northumberland National Park.

Amble:

Amble is a coastal town known as the “Friendliest Port,” located at the mouth of the River Coquet. A bustling marina with shops, cafes, and boat trips to nearby Coquet Island. A collection of retail pods offering local crafts, food, and gifts with beautiful coastal paths and beaches ideal for walking and exploring.

Wooler:

Small town located on the edge of the Cheviot Hills, making it a popular base for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known as the “Gateway to the Cheviots,” Wooler offers access to numerous walking trails.

Seahouses:

Lively fishing village and popular tourist destination on the Northumberland coast with boat Trips to the Farne Islands, a highlight for visitors, offering the chance to see seals, puffins, and other wildlife. A working fishing port with shops, seafood restaurants, and traditional fish and chips.

Belford:

Historic town located near the coast and close to the Cheviot Hills, offering a blend of history and natural beauty including Belford Hall, a Georgian mansion set in parkland, now converted into private apartments.

Haltwhistle:

Known as the “Centre of Britain,” Haltwhistle is a small town located near Hadrian's Wall with nearby Roman sites, such as Housesteads Roman Fort and Vindolanda, are major attractions. South Tynedale Railway is a narrow-gauge heritage railway offering scenic rides through the countryside. Haltwhistle Burn Gorge is a picturesque walking area with waterfalls and wildlife.

Corbridge:

Charming village with Roman roots, located near the River Tyne and archaeological remains of a Roman garrison town, including streets, shops, and granaries.

Ashington:

Once known as the “world’s largest coal mining village,” Ashington is a town with a rich industrial heritage. Woodhorn Museum, a museum dedicated to the town’s mining history, housed in a former colliery.

Area

5,030 sq. km / 1,942 sq. miles

Population

314,000 (2022)

Topography

Much of Northumberland's geology is characterized by rocks from the Carboniferous period, around 359 to 299 million years ago. These rocks include coal measures, which are layers of sandstone, shale, and coal seams formed from ancient swampy forests. The abundance of coal in Northumberland, particularly in the southeastern part of the county, fuelled the region's industrial growth during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Whin Sill:

One of Northumberland's most notable geological features is the Whin Sill, a layer of hard, igneous dolerite rock formed around 295 million years ago during a period of volcanic activity. The Whin Sill is responsible for some of the county's most dramatic landscapes, including the cliffs that Hadrian's Wall sits on and the craggy outcrops of Bamburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle.

Cheviot Hills:

The Cheviot Hills, located in the north-west of Northumberland, are formed from ancient volcanic rocks. The highest point in the range is The Cheviot, an extinct volcano that has eroded over millions of years. The hills are a key feature of the Northumberland National Park and attract hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Commerce

Manufacturing:

While traditional heavy industries have declined, Northumberland still has a presence in manufacturing, particularly in specialized sectors such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and engineering. The Aesica Pharmaceuticals plant in Cramlington is one example of a major employer in the region.

Technology and Innovation:

Northumberland is also home to a growing number of technology and innovation companies. The Blyth-based ORE Catapult (Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult) is a leading research and innovation centre for offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy, driving forward the development of renewable energy technologies.

Forestry:

Forestry is another important industry in Northumberland, particularly in the Kielder Forest, which is the largest man-made forest in England. The timber industry, along with recreation and tourism in Kielder Water and Forest Park, contributes to the local economy.

Famous people

Thomas Bewick, Grace Darling, Jack and Bobby Charlton, Capability Brown, Timothy Hackworth, George Stephenson

Attractions

History

Prehistoric and Roman Era:

Northumberland's history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements across the region. One of the most significant landmarks from this period is Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. The wall marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain and served as a defensive fortification against the tribes of Scotland.

Anglo-Saxon Kingdom:

After the Roman withdrawal, Northumberland became part of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria, one of the most powerful early medieval kingdoms in England. During this period, the region was a centre of Christian learning and culture, with the famous monastery at Lindisfarne (Holy Island) playing a key role in the spread of Christianity across the British Isles.

Medieval and Border Conflicts:

Norman Conquest and Castles: Following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, Northumberland became a strategic frontier region. The Normans built numerous castles to protect the area from Scottish invasions, many of which still stand today, such as Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle, and Warkworth Castle. These fortifications highlight Northumberland's turbulent history as a border region.

Border Reivers:

In the late medieval period, Northumberland was plagued by conflicts between England and Scotland. The constant skirmishes and raids led to the rise of the Border Reivers, notorious families who lived by raiding and cattle rustling along the Anglo-Scottish border. This period of lawlessness has left a lasting impact on the region's folklore and history.

Industrial Era:

Mining and Railways: In the 18th and 19th centuries, Northumberland experienced industrial growth, particularly in coal mining, which became the backbone of the local economy. The county also played a significant role in the development of the railways, with George Stephenson, the "father of railways," hailing from Wylam in Northumberland. The region's industrial heritage is preserved in sites such as Woodhorn Museum, which tells the story of coal mining in the county. Today, Northumberland is known for its commitment to preserving its natural and historical heritage. The Northumberland National Park, Kielder Water and Forest Park, and the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are all protected areas that draw visitors for their stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. The county's castles, historic towns, and cultural festivals continue to make it a popular destination for tourists.

Culture

Northumberland has a distinct cultural identity, partly reflected in its dialect, which includes words and phrases unique to the region. The Northumbrian smallpipes, a traditional musical instrument, are also an important part of the county's heritage. The region hosts various festivals, such as the Alnwick International Music Festival, Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival, and the Rothbury Traditional Music Festival, celebrating Northumberland's rich cultural traditions. Historical re-enactments and events celebrating the county's history are also popular.

Hadrian's Wall:

Hadrian's Wall is one of Northumberland's most famous landmarks. Stretching across the county from coast to coast, it is a remarkable feat of Roman engineering. Visitors can explore sections of the wall, along with forts like Housesteads, Vindolanda, and Chesters, which provide insight into Roman life on the frontier.

Bamburgh Castle:

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea, Bamburgh Castle is one of the most iconic castles in the UK. It has a history stretching back to the Anglo-Saxon period and offers stunning views of the coastline, including the nearby Farne Islands.

Alnwick Castle and Gardens:

Alnwick Castle, the seat of the Duke of Northumberland, is one of the largest inhabited castles in England. It has been a family home for over 700 years and is famous for its role as a filming location for the Harry Potter films. The adjacent Alnwick Garden, with its innovative designs and water features, is a popular attraction in its own right.

Cragside House:

The former home of Lord Armstrong, a Victorian inventor, is the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.

Holy Island of Lindisfarne:

Lindisfarne, or Holy Island, is a tidal island off the Northumberland coast. It is famous for its medieval priory, where the Lindisfarne Gospels were created, and for its role in the early Christian history of Britain. The island can be reached by a causeway at low tide and is a place of pilgrimage and tranquillity.

Northumberland National Park:

Covering over 1,000 square kilometres, Northumberland National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to rolling hills, forests, and moorlands, as well as part of Hadrian's Wall. It's also one of the least populated national parks in the UK, offering peace and solitude.

Dunstanburgh Castle:

Dramatic ruin on the coast near the village of Craster. Built in the early 14th century by Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, the castle was intended both as a fortress and a statement of Lancaster's power during his opposition to King Edward II. Its remote location and formidable size gave it a distinct presence in medieval Northumberland, serving both a defensive and symbolic role. The castle saw action during the Wars of the Roses in the mid-15th century, particularly between the rival factions of the Yorkists and Lancastrians. By the time of the Tudor era, however, Dunstanburgh's strategic importance had declined, and it fell into disrepair, eventually becoming a haunting and picturesque ruin.

Howick Hall:

Historic estate celebrated for its Georgian architecture, splendid gardens, and its connection to the Grey family, particularly Charles Grey, the 2nd Earl Grey and former British Prime Minister. Constructed in 1782, the hall was designed in the Georgian style by architect William Newton, featuring an elegant, symmetrical facade and spacious interiors that reflect the grandeur of its era. Charles Grey, who served as Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834, is perhaps most famously associated with the blend of tea that bears his name, Earl Grey tea. Legend suggests that the distinctive tea, flavoured with bergamot oil, was created for him as a tribute and inspired by the hall. The estate remained in the Grey family until the mid-20th century, when it was transformed into a visitor attraction.

Sycamore Gap:

Famous landmark located along Hadrian’s Wall, near the village of Wall. This iconic site is renowned for its striking natural beauty and historical significance. Our photo was taken quite a few years ago before some criminal tossers cut down the tree which made the place famous - if we’d known we’d have taken a photo of the tree but we were there before its fame intensified. The focal point of Sycamore Gap is / was a lone sycamore tree (Acer pseudoplatanus) that grows in a dip along the wall. The tree is often referred to as the "Robin Hood Tree" because it gained fame from its appearance in the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" (1991), starring Kevin Costner. The tree's unique location, with the wall forming a dramatic backdrop, creates a picturesque scene that has made it a popular subject for photography and art. The area around Sycamore Gap is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall, which was constructed by the Romans around AD 122 during the reign of Emperor Hadrian.

Kielder Water and Forest Park:

Outdoor Adventure: Kielder Water is the largest artificial lake in the UK, and the surrounding forest park is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and stargazing. The park is known for its dark skies, making it a prime location for astronomy.

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