Now is the time to travel to Northumberland. Often described as England’s “secret kingdom,” Northumberland is a land where vast, dramatic landscapes meet a turbulent border history. It is a county of staggering contrasts. Home to more castles than any other in England and boasting some of the darkest skies in the world. Whether you are walking the ancient line of Hadrian’s Wall, watching the tide cut off the holy island of Lindisfarne, or strolling along the pristine, windswept sands of Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland offers a sense of solitude and grandeur that is increasingly rare.
Why Northumberland is Calling.
In 2026, Northumberland remains a premier destination for those looking to escape the crowds and reconnect with the wild. Here is what makes it a must-visit this year:
- The Ad Gefrin Effect: The stunning Anglo-Saxon Great Hall and Distillery in Wooler. Ad Gefrin has firmly established the region as a hub for both ancient history and world-class spirits.
- Dark Sky Adventures: The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park continues to offer the best stargazing in the UK. A variety of sites across the region have new astronomical events scheduled throughout the 2026 winter season.
- Puffin Watching: The Farne Islands remain one of Europe’s most vital wildlife habitats. Book a boat trip from Seahouses to see the nesting colonies in their natural glory.
- Visiting iconic castles — Northumberland has an amazing selection of Castles ranging from ruins to lived in.
- Exploring Hadrian’s Wall — Walking sections of this ancient Roman frontier (a UNESCO site). Sites like Vindolanda (Roman fort and museum) and Housesteads are amazing to visit.
- Boat trips to the Farne Islands — Wildlife spotting, especially puffins (in season), seals, and seabirds from places like Seahouses.
- Holy Island (Lindisfarne) — Pilgrimage walks across the tidal causeway to the priory ruins, castle, and village—timing tides is key!
- Coastal walks and beaches — Strolling unspoiled sandy shores (e.g., Bamburgh Beach), coastal paths, or spots like Craster/Dunstanburgh Castle ruins.
- Cragside House and Gardens — A pioneering Victorian estate with hydro-power history, stunning gardens, and trails (often top-rated on Tripadvisor).
- Wildlife and nature — Including Kielder Water and Forest Park (for dark skies stargazing), Northumberland National Park hikes, or seal/puffin watching.
- Dark skies stargazing — In the International Dark Sky Park areas like Kielder Observatory.
- Majestic Stately Homes – scattered across Northumberland are dozens of stately homes in some of the most beautiful gardens in the United Kingdom.