Northumberland holiday cottages

Why book a holiday in Northumberland?

Northumberland is a county in the north east of England, a quarter of which is given over to Northumberland National Park, one of 15 National Parks in the UK.

Filled with ancient castles, charming market towns, unspoilt moorland and beautiful beaches, Northumberland is one of the most popular British holiday destinations. 

Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled family holiday, a quiet retreat or the perfect place to take your pooch, this wonderful holiday destination has it all. 

What to do on holiday in Northumberland

Northumberland is home to the world famous Hadrian’s Wall now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built to guard the wild north-west frontier of the Roman Empire, it stretches for 73 miles across the country from Wallsend to Bowness, and still allows walkers to follow in the Romans’ footsteps.

Or why not visit one of the Roman forts and museums along Hadrian’s Wall, where you can explore bath houses, ramparts and turrets, watch live excavations and learn how to be a Roman soldier?

There are also many stately homes to discover in Northumberland. One of the most famous is Wallington House. Gifted by Sir Charles Philips Trevelyan, this historical home contains fascinating pre-Raphaelite paintings, beautiful furniture and interesting treasures in each room.

The house is also surrounded by stunning lawns, lakes and woodland. Head into the woods to find the hidden walled garden — a beautiful haven with colourful borders in the summer.

Family friendly activities in Northumberland

Animal lovers will adore Northumberland Country Zoo. Meet meerkats, porcupines, llamas and more, while learning some interesting and amazing facts during their educational keeper feeds.

You will also have the opportunity to get up close and personal during the various animal encounters throughout the day.

Then there’s Kielder Water and Forest Park. It’s the perfect place for the kids to burn off their energy. It is also home to the biggest man-made lake in Northern Europe and the largest working forest in England, at over 250 square miles. 

Kielder Forest is also well know for its dark skies, uninterrupted by light pollution. In fact, so dark are these skies that together with Northumberland National Park and Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society, they were awarded Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies Association (IDA) in December 2013 – the highest accolade the IDA can give.

While there, try a range of activities, including segways, zip wires, high ropes, archery, crossbows, sea scooters, snorkelling, zorbing and crazy carts.

Or for unique thrills, explore the market town of Alnwick on a self-guided Murder Mystery themed Treasure Trail. Can you solve the sneaky clues as you work your way around the 1-mile long trail?

Pet friendly places to visit in Northumberland

With a range of pet friendly cottages on offer, Northumberland makes the perfect holiday destination for you and your dog.

Head to Dunstanburgh Castle near Craster. This haunting ruin is set on the edge of the rugged Northumbrian coastline, offering salty sea walks and stunning views.

Discover the secrets of the Old Gaol, located in the pretty riverside town of Hexham. It once held prisoners for around 500 years, and today gives a snapshot into the Goal’s gruesome past. Well behaved dogs are allowed in, so you don’t need to worry about leaving them behind. 

Designed to resemble a reclining lady, Northumberlandia, near Cramlington, is a one of a kind country park. It features a landscaped sculpture carved into the hillside and is the perfect place to take your pooch on an enjoyable day out. 

Need a hand finding the best holiday cottage accommodation in Northumberland?

At Holiday Cottage Compare, we are never happier than when we are matching holidaymakers with their perfect cottage.

So if you need a hand finding your next holiday rental, then why not let us know exactly what you’re looking for in your next holiday cottage by using our simple concierge form?

We will then send you back an email with a list of perfect matches, usually within 24 hours of receiving your enquiry.