Top Attractions
There are a huge number of attractions across the County. To browse attractions by area select from the list below, or scroll down to browse the County's main attractions.
Alnmouth's Attractions & Things To Do
Alnwick's Attractions & Things To Do
Amble's Attractions & Things To Do
Bamburgh's Attractions & Things To Do
Berwick's Attractions & Things To Do
Corbridge's Attractions & Things To Do
Hadrian's Wall Attractions & Things To Do
Hexham's Attractions & Things To Do
Holy Island's Attractions & Things To Do
Morpeth's Attractions & Things To Do
Rothbury's Attractions & Things To Do
Or browse our A-Z of all Attractions
Just ten years ago, The Alnwick Garden Site was derelict and forgotten. Then the Duchess of Northumberland imagined creating a beautiful public garden for families to enjoy, and from her bold vision, The Alnwick Garden project began. The
Alnwick Garden is now a vibrant place, with beautifully landscaped gardens, magnificent architecture and unique features, all brought to life with water. It's a garden for gardeners, with a design that looks to the future. From the country's largest collection of European plants in the Ornamental Garden to the very unusual plants found in the Poison Garden, there's an enormous variety of plants and trees.
Many interesting planting styles can be seen during a walk around the landscape, and the gardeners are always happy to chat and to answer questions. It's also a garden for families, with lots of chance to get wet and play! Collect water in the mini tractors, paddle in the rills, see the many ways water can move in the Serpent Garden and dodge the Grand Cascade's jets. Play hide and seek in the Bamboo Labyrinth, and bounce on the world's largest Tree house's wobbly rope bridges. The Alnwick Garden is a unique educational and truly inspirational place, testament to the Duchess's vision and commitment. If you only visit one attraction during your visit, make it The Alnwick Garden.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE66 1YU
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Barter Books
Alnwick also has one of the largest second hand book shops in the UK – Barter Books, which is housed in the town's old railway station. Described as the 'British Library of Second Hand Books', the building itself is incredibly ornate, which is due to the station's frequent use by royals visiting the Percy‟s at Alnwick Castle. Barter Books is a unique place and well worth a visit, even just to browse, to admire the architecture or have a tea or coffee by the roaring fire.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE66 2NP
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The Farne Islands lie two to three miles off the Northumberland Coast midway between the fishing village of Seahouses and the magnificent castle of Bamburgh. As well as being the most famous Sea Bird Sanctuary in the British Isles they also have a large colony of Atlantic or Grey Seals. Boat trips to the Farne Islands leave from Seahouses Harbour and generally last around
two and a half hours.
Your insider tip: National Trust Members land free on the Island. For non-members there is a charge payable to the wardens on landing.
Whitehouse Farm Centre
Just outside Morpeth, just a few miles away in the countryside is Whitehouse Farm Centre. It's a great place for the whole family to enjoy a day out with a 'hands' on experience with lots of different animals. It is a 40 acre farm centre that has been educating and entertaining visitors since 1997. It is a great place to see, handle and feed a wide variety of animals from traditional breeds to unusual and exotic species. When we went with my little niece the definite favourites were the meerkats and the baby goats. About 75% of the farm is under cover so a day out here can be enjoyed whatever the weather.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE61 6AW
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Heighley Gate Garden Centre
More than just your average Garden Centre, Heighley Gate the North East‟s largest. Originally a tiny independent pig and poultry farm, Heighley Gate began life in 1963 when the owners, the Lishmans, sold eggs to passing motorists. Regular customers spotted the vegetables growing in their greenhouse and a prolific business was born. It now lies in 40 acres of immaculately tended grounds. There is also a wide variety of shopping and entertainment on offer, indoor and outdoor
children's play areas, as well as a great restaurant. Whilst the emphasis rests on top quality plants and gardening products, the genuinely warm welcome extended to every visitor remains Heighley Gate‟s trademark.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE61 3DA
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Kielder Water and Forest Park
Space – lots of it. Plenty to see and do all year round. Ideal for all ages. There are many reasons to visit; the most popular being the distinctive scenery. Home to northern Europe's largest man-made lake and England's largest forest, the Park's remoteness and clean air and water offer a fresh outdoor experience. Rejuvenate yourself under the darkest night skies in England - perfect for star gazing. Enjoy healthy activities in the greenest environment. Nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, explorers, walkers, cyclists, artists, families ... anyone looking to escape, set their own agenda and create new experiences will delight in everything they have to offer. There is so much to do here that you‟ll want to spend at least a day if you visit. Starting at one of the three visitors centres is a must to find out about the vast range of activities on offer. Kielder Water is about an hour and twenty minute drive from the Cottage. This might seem like a long way, but what a drive! The road from Rothbury to Otterburn that you take has probably the most spectacular countryside views you can imagine and it‟s more than worth visiting for this alone.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE48 1BX
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Falconry Days
There is a new Bird of Prey Centre that has opened near Matfen Hall that offers experience days that you will never forget! They offer hands on experiences where you can get up close and personal to the birds as well as having a falconry display. A typical experience day would start with a tour to introduce you to the numerous birds of prey at the centre. Before long you'll be holding and flying a range of owls, hawks, falcons, vultures and eagles! It really is an exciting day out in a beautiful location in Northumberland. Half Days are on offer as well as Full Day Experiences, Family Activity Experiences and a Hunting Experience Day. If you fancy doing something unique while you're in the heart of the stunning Northumberland countryside make sure you experience a Falconry Day.
Postcode for your SatNav: NE20 0RH
Visit the Falconry Days Website for more information.