Holiday cottages, airbnb and b&bs in Northumberland

Visitors flock to gaze upon Northumberland's unspoilt jagged coastline, wild hilly scenery and its holy island, and there is no better way to embrace the quirkiness of this location than by renting a traditional country cottage which will quickly become your home away from home. Whether you choose a classic limestone-built holiday home with a private garden or a luxury apartment rental with jacuzzi, Northumberland has no shortage of holiday cottages which are ideal for every visitor.

When to go to Northumberland

The best time to visit Northumberland is in the spring months of April and May when the climate is warm enough to enjoy the impressive outdoors, and rainfall is not as likely. After the busiest summer months, the county turns a blazing crimson, and amber colour and the wildlife becomes even more diverse, making September and early October the best time for wildlife lovers and budding photographers to visit this ever-changing natural retreat.

What types of holiday rentals are available in Northumberland?

There is even more to Northumberland than what would initially meet the eye, from its rich natural allure to the cultural hubs of Alnwick and Morpeth; there is something for everybody. Just as there is a limitless amount to see in this county, there is a vast range of accommodation in Northumberland available. If you are travelling in a group, for a walking holiday or an extended family getaway, choose a country cottage which is spacious enough for everybody in your party to enjoy. If you are craving a romantic break, settle for a bed and breakfast in an Elizabethan townhouse which is more intimate but still offers everything you could desire, including a secluded garden or a balcony with a North Sea view.

How to get there?

With London North Eastern Railway offering routes from London Kings Cross to the most northern county in England, Northumberland can be reached in around 3 hours by rail from the capital via Newcastle. With other connecting routes from Manchester Victoria, Birmingham New Street and Edinburgh, the beauty of Northumberland is never more than just a few hours away. If you would rather have access to your car to explore the vast area once you arrive, take the A1 from the south of England. From the north, you will cross the Scottish border into the market town of Berwick, your first stop in this beautiful county.

Getting around

The most convenient way to explore Northumberland at your leisure is by car, as this county has been designed perfectly for road travel. The 39-mile route of the A1068, or the Northumberland Coastal Route, is the easiest way to immerse yourself in the striking views which the coast has to offer, including the benefit of free parking. If you would prefer to take in the sights without having to worry about taking your eyes off the road, then make use of the public transport links, most notably the efficient bus services.

Where to stay

Alnwick

Sure, Northumberland offers some of the most striking landscapes in the north of England, but did you ever stop to recognise it as home to a vibrantly rich town? Bathe in a unique eating and drinking experience in the county in the world's largest treehouse, browse the diverse independent stores and take in the history of the town from the stunning Alnwick Castle, then get some rest in one of the neighbourhood's bed and breakfasts or apartments in the architecturally beautiful guesthouses.

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Securing a self-catered holiday cottage will allow you to wake up in a room with a view of the North Sea, as this coastal town offers everything you could desire from a quintessential English seaside town including a dockside gallery and of course, a sandy stretch of beach.

Northumberland National Park

This National Park is home to Hadrian's Wall, Kielder Water, which offers water sport opportunities, and The Cheviot, the highest peak in the Cheviot Hills. It is the ideal place to enjoy Northumberland's natural beauty, so secure a farmhouse or country cottage to live like a local in this area.

Hexham

The quaint market town of Hexham is a fitting place to stay for visitors who want to enjoy the perfect balance of Northumberland's natural scenery, with the vibrancy of a buzzing northern town. A holiday home in Hexham will leave you just a stone's throw away from a medieval abbey and a multicoloured farmers market, all while at the very forefront of the rivers and hills which this county is recognised for.

Bamburgh

Bamburgh is steeped in years of deep history, and just like every other great historical village, it has a castle to prove it. Choose a luxury holiday rental or a guesthouse in one of the quietest, but most beautiful neighbourhoods in the county and wake up in an area which has enticed former royalty.

Seahouses

Rightfully crowned as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', this seaside village offers some of the most picturesque views in Northumberland. The Seahouses Festival and some quietly dynamic pubs grace this impressive coastline, making it the best place to find a reasonably priced holiday rental to enjoy everything which this area has to offer, many of which are even more affordable than a hotel room, so nothing can stop you from enjoying this area.

What to do in Northumberland?

Road trip the Northumberland Coast

Covering almost 40 miles of dramatically rustic coastline, the Northumberland Coast route is designed to showcase the beauty of this waterfront landscape. Whether you drive the full length of the road or choose one particular beach, this coast is unmissable from your trip.

Explore Alnwick Castle

The historical masterpiece of Alnwick Castle has been captivating all who visit this area since the 12th century. Therefore, it is unsurprising that the site is one of the top ten most visited stately homes and the second largest inhabited castle in England.

Climb to the summit of The Cheviot

At 815m, climbing to the peak of The Cheviot is maybe not an experience for those who do not enjoy hiking or heights! For those who do, however, the views from the summit of the sea, the neighbouring hills and Scotland are just breath-taking.

Visit the island of Lindisfarne

Lindisfarne, or ‘Holy Island' as it is otherwise known as, is home to a castle and a priory, which stand proudly on the land. This parish can be accessed from the mainland but is wholly cut off twice daily by the tide, so pre-plan your timings if you want to enjoy this mystical land.

See the ruins of Hadrian's Wall

You don't need to be a historian to know the impressive history of Hadrian's Wall, a landmark which was built by the Romans in AD 122. This 73-mile long structure remains at the forefront of British history, meaning no visit to Northumberland is complete without a visit back in time.

Dine in The Alnwick Garden

Offering perhaps the most individually unique dining experience in the entire county, the Treehouse Restaurant in these ‘pleasure gardens' has been designed to create an atmosphere like no other. Sample some locally sourced food and sip cocktails high in the treetops, all while enjoying the live music under the stars.