Northumberland National Park Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Northumberland National Park
Photo provided by Northumberland National Park
Photo provided by Northumberland National Park
Photo provided by Northumberland National Park
Photo provided by Northumberland National Park


Follow in the footsteps of Roman settlers, hike amid breathtaking landscapes and gaze at a starlit sky in England’s least populated national park.

Northumberland National Park is an area of magnificent rolling green pastures, deep valleys, dense forests and clean rivers. It covers some 405 square miles (1,049 square kilometers) between the North Pennines and the Scottish border. The stunning countryside of Northumberland National Park invites you to explore at your own pace by bike, foot and horseback. Visit ancient ruins, discover pretty market towns and enjoy superb stargazing.

Endless miles of marked and unmarked trails meander throughout the park. Put on a pair of walking boots and hike across the park’s tallest hills, The Cheviots. Cross rivers via old bridges and stroll through a mystical forest to a waterfall at Hareshaw Linn. The moorland, outcrops and rivers of Coquetdale are a photographer’s dream while Breamish Valley is a favorite among horse riders.

A section of Hadrian’s Wall, the one-time defensive wall of the Roman region of Britannia, runs along the southern border of the park. Walk the 8-mile (13-kilometer) stretch between Housesteads Roman Fort and Walltown Crags. Snap a photo of the Sycamore Gap, a tree that stands in a dip in the wall. Exhibitions at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre educate about the cultural history and geography of Northumberland.

Fishermen will enjoy casting a line into the River Tyne in search of salmon, brown trout and rainbow trout. There are also opportunities to spot wildlife such as the curlew bird, black grouse and red squirrels.

With some of the darkest skies in the U.K., the park is a stargazers paradise. Cawfields, Harbottle and Stonehaugh are all excellent locations for spotting constellations and the Milky Way.

The park is in the northernmost region of England. It’s about an hour’s drive from Newcastle-upon-Tyne and a 2-hour drive from Edinburgh. Local bus services travel between the park’s towns.

Entry to Northumberland National Park is free and it remains open year round. Visit the park’s official website to find out about guided walks, which have a fee, and to download a trail map.

Plan a trip to see Northumberland National Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Milestone Hotel
Corinthia London
The Savoy

Popular places to visit


Top Northumberland National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Coach House

The Coach House

3 out of 5
Otterburn Hall Estate Otterburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
The Coach House
 Le Petit Chateau & William de Percy

Le Petit Chateau & William de Percy

4 out of 5
Jedburgh Road, Otterburn, Northumberland, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Le Petit Chateau & William de Percy
Otterburn Castle Country House Hotel

Otterburn Castle Country House Hotel

4 out of 5
Otterburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Otterburn Castle Country House Hotel
Woodside Cottage - North East Escapes

Woodside Cottage - North East Escapes

3 out of 5
Woodside Cottage, A68, Rochester, England
Woodside Cottage - North East Escapes
3 bedroom accommodation in Otterburn near Bellingham

3 bedroom accommodation in Otterburn near Bellingham

Otterburn near Bellingham
3 bedroom accommodation in Otterburn near Bellingham
Northern Hideaways, Sunnyside, Otterburn

Northern Hideaways, Sunnyside, Otterburn

3 out of 5
Sunnyside, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Northern Hideaways, Sunnyside, Otterburn
Butterchurn Apartment

Butterchurn Apartment

3 out of 5
The Butterchurn Guest House Otterburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Butterchurn Apartment
Host Stay Bankfoot Cottage

Host Stay Bankfoot Cottage

2 out of 5
7 Bankfoot NE19 1NU Rothbury United, Kingdom, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England
Host Stay Bankfoot Cottage
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Northumberland National Park

Northumberland National Park is a haven for outdoor adventures, offering a range of activities for tourists. You can indulge in birdwatching, explore the diverse wildlife, and enjoy biking through stunning landscapes. Whether you're keen on hiking or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this park promises an unforgettable experience. Make the most of your visit by immersing yourself in the great outdoors and all it has to offer.

Shopping

In Northumberland National Park, visit the charming Kirkharle Courtyard, a shopping centre 20.9km away, offering a mix of family and business vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Purple Mountain Bike Hire Centre and The Bike Place in Kielder, both located 25.7km away, for unique finds.

Recreation

At Macdonald Linden Hall Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Clifton Park offers a serene environment for relaxation and wellness activities, while Bellingham Golf Club provides another fantastic golfing experience with stunning views of the Northumberland landscape.

Adventure

At College Valley Estate, located 30.6km away, immerse yourself in stunning hiking trails surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The Pennine Way, situated 29.0km from the park, offers another exhilarating hiking experience amidst the great outdoors. For a thrill, try air sports at Northumbria Gliding Club, found 45.1km away.

Nightlife

For a unique evening, visit the Kielder Observatory, a stunning planetarium located 27.4km from Northumberland National Park. Experience the cosmos with family-friendly events, making it a memorable night under the stars, perfect for both entertainment and a touch of wonder.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Northumberland National Park

Northumberland National Park offers a captivating blend of historic houses, monuments, and stunning natural scenery. Ideal for those seeking culture and outdoor adventures, the park showcases the heart of Northumberland's rich heritage. Visitors can explore various attractions that cater to their interests, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful national park.

  • Kielder Water and Forest Park: Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures in this stunning park, which features picturesque landscapes and a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The vast forest and serene lake create an ideal setting for nature lovers.
  • Cragside: Explore the historic Cragside, a Victorian masterpiece renowned for its innovative architecture and lush gardens. This cultural gem offers insight into the life of Lord Armstrong and showcases beautiful walks and incredible views.
  • Cheviot Hills: Enjoy breathtaking scenery in the Cheviot Hills, perfect for hiking and picnicking. The rolling hills and rugged terrain provide a serene escape into nature, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Northumberland National Park

To save money on your trip to Northumberland National Park, consider visiting between January to February or November for lower accommodation rates. Booking a month in advance often yields the best hotel prices, with Tuesdays being the cheapest nights to stay. Use Expedia to refine your search for budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. Don't forget to check for last-minute deals. Combining flights, activities, and your accommodation through an Expedia package can also help you save significantly on your overall costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Northumberland National Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Northumberland National Park is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Northumberland National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Northumberland National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Northumberland National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.