Towns and Villages in Northumberland
Hidden Gems of Northumberland: the lesser-known villages you should definitely visit
Northumberland is dotted with quaint little villages and inviting towns, all of which can be easily accessed from areas across the region. Alnwick, Bamburgh, Seahouses - they’re all lovely, but these are our lesser-known recommendations that you might just want to visit.
Craster, Embleton and Newton by the Sea
This group of coastal villages are located on the Northumberland coastal path, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and they certainly live up to this title. Our local team regularly point to the walk between Craster and Embleton (a six-mile trip) as one of their favourite ways to spend a weekend in Northumberland. Embleton Bay stretches out for miles and miles and is tucked away behind a country lane, making it both safe and stunning. Dogs are welcome on the beach and there’s certainly plenty of room for them to run around and explore!
Dunstanburgh Castle, one of the region’s finest, provides the backdrop for Embleton Bay, but is better accessed via Craster. Craster also has its own piece of fascinating architecture for you to discover in Craster Tower, an 18th century mansion incorporating a 14th century tower. Stacey, our Brand Activation Manager, also recommends stopping off at The Jolly Fisherman during your time in Craster - pick up a portion of hot fish and chips from their van, or dine in for a more luxurious meal of home-cooked, locally sourced food.
Newton is a great spot for nature lovers. Take the kids rock pooling, or venture onto Newton Point for a spectacular view across to the Farne Islands and its colony of colourful puffins. This trio of delightful spots are perfect for a day trip, but we also have a range of holiday cottages in Craster and Embleton and Newton by the Sea available to book for a longer stay.
Wooler and the Cheviots
Looking to really get away from it all? Want to feel truly in ‘the middle of nowhere’? If so, a trip to Wooler, at the foot of the Cheviot Hills and on the doorstep of the Northumberland National Park is for you. Wooler itself has a busier feel to it, with independent restaurants and cafes in abundance, whilst retaining a sense of old-world, rural charm. Our local team recommend a trip to the Doddington Milk Bar and Cafe, where you can buy award-winning ice creams and tasty milkshakes.
A walk into the Cheviots is where you’ll really feel at one with nature. The Cheviot is the highest peak in the Northumberland National Park (which you can read more about here) and the Cheviots are a haven for walkers. The Cheviots are also part of the Northumberland International Dark Skies Park, so be sure to stop here for some world-class stargazing. Take a look at our self-catering accommodation in Wooler and the Cheviots to find out more about this wonderful part of the county.
