NORTHUMBERLAND
Steeped in history and heritage, Northumberland, England’s northern most county borders Scotland, the North Sea, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Cumbria. Once at the northern periphery of the Roman Empire, the county has had more than its fair share of conflict, in fact Northumberland has more castles than any other county, and the greatest number of recognised battle sites. Northumberland is also known as the “cradle of Christianity” in England, because Christianity flourished on the tidal island of Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island).
The culture of the region is unlike that of the rest of England, and more closely linked to that of the Scottish Lowlands, reflecting the strong historical links between Northumbria and the lowlands of Scotland.
From its North Sea coastal plain in the east, to its increasingly mountainous topography in the north west, Northumberland’s physical geography is diverse. This not only gives rise to many varying habitats for a fabulous array of wildlife and flora and forna, but also offers the visitor a wide range of sporting activities from walking and surfing, to world class fishing, shooting and golf and even the odd days skiing on Cheviot when conditions are right!
Alongside its numerous castles, and stunning countryside, Northumberland is a superb area for exploring historic buildings, market towns, country estates and is a great base for day trips to Edinburgh or Newcastle should some retail therapy become the order of the day.
Finally, Northumberland is the most sparsely populated and the ‘the most tranquil’ county in England, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their stay in a relaxed manner.
SEAHOUSES
Home to Dunelm House, the fishing village of Seahouses lies in the heart of the ‘Northumbrian Riviera’, and is an ideal base for exploring the whole county. It’s bustling harbour sees daily catches landed, and also gives the only access point for trips to the Farne Islands earning Seahouses the tag line ‘the Gateway to the Farnes’. The Farne Islands (known as Europe’s Galapagos) offer some of the best diving, fishing and birdwatching on the continent.
Both to the north and south of the harbour lie rocky outcrops and golden beaches and is a mecca for waterspouts enthusiasts. Surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, waterskiing and wake boarding are all enjoyed in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Northumberland coastal path runs the length of the whole coastline and is perfect for walkers of all abilities, more challenging walks and treks can be found in the Cheviot hills and the Northumberland National Park only 20 miles away.
Castles are abundant, the closest is Bamburgh, situated in the historic village of the same name, just 3 miles north of Seahouses. Others include Dunstanburgh, Chillingham, Alnwick (also home to Harry Potter) and Warkworth and are all easily reachable, as are the interesting market towns of Berwick, Wooler, Alnwick and Rothbury.
If it’s golf you are after, fear not – Seahouses has its own 18 hole links course others nearby include Bamburgh, Dunstanburgh, Foxton, Alnmouth, Goswick Links, and many more.
Whatever you decide to do while in the area, you will surely be spoilt for choice. Enjoy yourself and explore England’s Secret Kingdom at your leisure.