Looking for a new place to escape to for a weekend, with sandy beaches and a whole range of walks? Well, Northumberland may be your next place on the list of your must visits.  

Northumberland boasts over 100 walking routes, making it a go-to for walkers. Susie Oliver, a local, explains how it has become overlooked despite having so much to offer.

“If you know about the area, you can’t run out of things to do. We have so many scenic walks and loads of locally ran, shops and restaurants to explore. The coastline is a hidden gem, and it’s much quieter than Cornwall!” she explained.

Walking routes galore…

One of the most iconic and beloved bank holiday attractions is the Hadrian’s Wall route. The touristy spot takes you along Housesteads Roman Fort and the Sycamore Gap walk. The Housesteads Roman Fort Visitor Centre, at the beginning, allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the Roman Empire before you set off. To Susie, “this walk sums up what Northumberland means to me.”

The route takes you along the ancient Hadrian’s Wall to the famous Sycamore Gap, also known as the Robin Hood Tree. Despite the unfortunate felling of this iconic tree in September, the area still attracts walkers who cherish the breath taking views and historical significance.

“I think one of the great things about walks such as these is so many local businesses thrive on the foot traffic they get from them.

“For example, at the end of this walk you can visit a great pub named the Twice Brewed Inn which serves food and their own brewed beers and larger – they even have one named after Sycamore Gap!” Susie explains.

Even if walking doesn’t excite you, Northumberland is such a great place to get away from a busy city life, particularly during the upcoming bank holiday weekend. The local of the area, Susie, said, “Sometimes you don’t realise how peaceful and quiet it is there until you leave and come back.”

For those who prefer coastal walks, Northumberland’s coastline is an underrated gem. The Dunstanburgh Castle coastal route from Craster to Low Newton is a must-try. This walk not only offers stunning coastal views but also ends (or begins, depending on your direction) at excellent pubs. And, along the way, you can explore Dunstanburgh Castle, a dramatic ruin that adds a historical touch to your escape.

Coastal brilliance…

Beaches in Northumberland are equally as impressive. Beadnell Beach, Embleton Bay, Druridge Bay, and the stunning Bamburgh Beach are some of the finest.

Bamburgh Beach, with its pristine white sands and the backdrop of the majestic Bamburgh Castle, is particularly noteworthy. The castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in the UK, a Grade I listed building, and a popular venue for weddings.

Susie explains, “It sits in the shadow of Bamburgh Castle and is one of the whitest sandy beaches in the UK. It’s an absolute must-visit.”

Northumberland is not just about walks and beaches; it’s also about the local businesses that thrive here. Unique shops, restaurants, and pubs offer a taste of local life and hospitality.

Susie says: “There are so many new places popping up recently as well, such as glamping pods that really mean you can escape and be completely surrounded by the countryside.

“I recently got to stay in one of these. It was at East Farm Glamping and it was one of the most relaxing nights I’ve had in years, you really feel like no one is around you for miles.”

So, save this for the weekend escape that you’ve been longing for and go for a rejuvenating adventure. From scenic walks and historical sites to unique local experiences and peaceful retreats. Northumberland is a gem waiting to be explored.

Looking to escape the city this bank holiday explore our other guides here:

Bristol – https://ninetoalive.co.uk/2024/05/23/opinion-explore-the-best-of-bristol-this-bank-holiday-weekend/

Bournemouth – https://ninetoalive.co.uk/2024/05/22/why-should-you-scape-to-bournemouth-this-bank-holiday/

Cornwall – https://ninetoalive.co.uk/2024/05/23/opinion-escape-to-cornwall-this-bank-holiday/