Places You Need to Visit in Northumberland

Experience the best of Northumberland Living – from castles and coastlines to countryside escapes.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, relocating for a lifestyle change, or considering investing in Northumberland property, this remarkable county offers more than just fresh air and wide open skies. It’s home to ancient castles, secret beaches, world-class walks, and charming market towns – all surrounded by one of the most beautiful and peaceful landscapes in the UK.

At Northumberland Living, we believe your home should feel like a destination. So here’s our round-up of must-visit places that not only showcase the best of Northumberland – they also give you a glimpse into the kind of life you could enjoy here as a homeowner or investor.

1. Alnwick Castle & Gardens

Why go: Step into a real-life Hogwarts

Location appeal: Minutes from our Ravensmount apartments

No list of Northumberland attractions would be complete without Alnwick Castle – one of Britain’s most iconic historic sites. With its grand turrets, stunning state rooms, and magical Harry Potter heritage, it’s a magnet for visitors year-round.

Right next door, you’ll find The Alnwick Garden, a world-famous horticultural masterpiece featuring the Poison Garden, Cherry Orchard, and one of the largest treehouses in the world.

For home buyers in Alnwick, living this close to a cultural landmark adds both charm and long-term property value. In fact, our latest development – Ravensmount by Northumberland Living – is just a two-minute drive from the castle.

2. Bamburgh & the Northumberland Coast

Why go: Castles by the sea, coastal walks, and pastel sunsets

Location appeal: Popular with second-home buyers and holiday lets

The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenes in the UK – and nowhere captures that magic better than Bamburgh. Its immense castle, perched high on a volcanic rock, looks straight out of a film set (because it often is!).

From there, you can walk or cycle along the coastline to places like Seahouses, Craster, and Embleton Bay, each offering idyllic sea views, fresh seafood, and golden sands.

Many families and retirees look to buy property in Bamburgh or nearby villages to enjoy a slice of coastal calm. If you’re considering a buy-to-let or holiday home, this area’s demand is consistently high.

3. Hadrian’s Wall & Northumberland National Park

Why go: Roman history meets wild open landscapes

Location appeal: Peaceful living, perfect for off-grid escapes

Stretching across the north of England, Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnet for hikers and history lovers alike. Here, you can explore Roman forts like Housesteads and Vindolanda, then follow the national trail through rolling moors and dramatic valleys.

Beyond the wall lies the Northumberland National Park – England’s least populated and darkest (star-wise) park, ideal for those craving natural peace and stargazing.

More people are looking to move to rural Northumberland for space, tranquility, and a slower pace of life. With land and property prices still more affordable than the national average, this area offers huge potential for long-term living or sustainable development.

4. Kielder Water & Forest Park

Why go: Stargazing, cycling, and family fun

Location appeal: Green tourism and off-grid living opportunities

Fancy staying under a sky full of stars? Kielder is officially the darkest place in England, home to the Kielder Observatory and some of the clearest night skies in Europe.

During the day, enjoy the UK’s largest man-made lake and its surrounding forest, perfect for cycling, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. There’s also a growing community of eco-friendly homes and glamping businesses emerging around the area, making it a hub for sustainable rural tourism.

If you’re seeking an off-grid lifestyle in Northumberland, this is the place.

5. Morpeth & Hexham Market Towns

Why go: Historic town centres with modern appeal

Location appeal: Great schools, commuter links, and high quality of life

While Northumberland’s coast and countryside get the most headlines, its market towns offer fantastic amenities and a strong sense of community. Morpeth, with its riverside walks, indie shops, and monthly farmers’ market, is just 30 minutes from Newcastle, making it ideal for commuters.

Further west, Hexham boasts an ancient abbey, vibrant arts scene, and excellent schools – a smart choice for families seeking Northumberland homes for sale in well-connected, character-rich areas.

6. Druridge Bay

Why go: Undiscovered beach heaven just minutes from our holiday homes

Location appeal: Strong holiday let and family buyer demand

Seven miles of untouched sand, secret dunes, and wildlife-rich wetlands make Druridge Bay a dream for dog walkers, paddleboarders, and weekend explorers. Unlike more crowded spots further south, this stretch remains blissfully quiet.

Why These Places Matter for Property Buyers

When people search “where to live in Northumberland” or “best places to buy property in Northumberland,” they’re not just seeking bricks and mortar. They’re looking for lifestyle, scenery, community, and long-term value.

The attractions above aren’t just great for holidays – they’re indicators of a resilient and growing housing market. Proximity to historic sites, natural beauty, and vibrant communities directly correlates with buyer interest and property performance.

Northumberland Isn’t Just a Place to Visit – It’s a Place to Live

From coastal castles to countryside escapes, Northumberland offers something for everyone. And with ongoing investment in sustainable housing, transport, and tourism, it’s fast becoming a smart choice for anyone wanting a home with more heart.

To find out more about how Northumberland Living is shaping the future of this remarkable region, or to enquire about buying a property in Alnwick, Druridge Bay, or beyond, get in touch with our team.