Explore

Northumberland on Your Doorstep

From medieval castles to wild beaches, ancient pilgrim routes to award-winning restaurants — this corner of England rewards the curious at every turn.

Where to Begin

A Region Like No Other

Berwick upon Tweed sits at the very edge of England — a town of medieval walls, tidal rivers, and salt-tinged air. Step outside and within minutes you're on some of the most dramatic coastline in Britain, or heading south into a landscape of castles, moors, and market towns that feel untouched by time. The cottage puts you at the centre of it all.

Coast & Beaches

Miles of Wild, Empty Shoreline

Northumberland has some of the least-crowded beaches in England — vast stretches of golden sand, backed by dunes and watched over by ancient fortresses.

Bamburgh Beach & Castle
13 miles south

Bamburgh Beach & Castle

One of England's most iconic views — a vast sandy beach with Bamburgh Castle rising from the dunes above it. Walk the beach at low tide, explore the castle's extraordinary interior, or simply sit and stare. Bring the dog. Bring the children. Bring a flask.

Tip:Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light on the castle.
Seahouses & the Farne Islands
22 miles south

Seahouses & the Farne Islands

The pretty harbour village of Seahouses is the departure point for boat trips to the Farne Islands — a National Nature Reserve teeming with puffins, grey seals, and seabirds. The islands are one of the best wildlife-watching spots in Britain.

Tip:Book Farne Islands boat trips in advance during summer — they fill up fast.
Alnmouth
34 miles south

Alnmouth

A charming estuary village with a long sandy beach, colourful cottages, and a handful of excellent pubs and cafés. The walk along the dunes from Alnmouth to Warkworth is one of the finest short coastal walks in the north.

Tip:The Red Lion pub in Alnmouth does excellent Sunday lunches — book ahead.

Castles & History

A Landscape Shaped by Centuries

Northumberland has more castles per square mile than any other English county — and the stories they hold are extraordinary.

Holy Island & Lindisfarne
12 miles south

Holy Island & Lindisfarne

Cross the tidal causeway to Lindisfarne — a place of extraordinary stillness, ruined priory, and a castle perched on a volcanic crag. Time your visit with the tides for an unforgettable crossing. The island has been a place of pilgrimage since the 7th century.

Tip:Check the tide tables before you go — the causeway floods twice daily. Allow at least 3 hours on the island.
Berwick's Elizabethan Walls
On your doorstep

Berwick's Elizabethan Walls

Walk the complete circuit of Elizabethan ramparts that ring the town — some of the best-preserved in Europe, with sweeping views over the Tweed estuary and the North Sea beyond. The walk takes about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Tip:Start at the Barracks end for the best views over the river and out to sea.
Alnwick Castle & Gardens
30 miles south

Alnwick Castle & Gardens

The second-largest inhabited castle in England, Alnwick is home to the Percy family and has doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. The Alnwick Garden next door is a world-class contemporary garden with a spectacular Grand Cascade.

Tip:Allow a full day — the castle and garden together are a proper day out.

Walks & Countryside

Landscapes That Stay With You

Whether you want a gentle riverside stroll or a full day on the Cheviot Hills, the walking from the cottage is exceptional.

The River Tweed Walk
From the cottage door

The River Tweed Walk

Follow the Tweed upstream from Berwick through meadows and woodland, with the river always in view. The path to Paxton House — a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion — is one of the finest riverside walks in the Borders.

Tip:Paxton House has an excellent café and is well worth a visit in its own right.
The Cheviot Hills
30 -40 miles west

The Cheviot Hills

The rolling uplands of the Cheviots offer some of the most rewarding walking in northern England — vast, quiet, and genuinely wild. The Pennine Way passes through, and the views from the summit of The Cheviot on a clear day stretch to the Scottish Highlands.

Tip:Go prepared — the weather can change quickly. Good boots and a map are essential.
The Northumberland Coastal Path
Accessible from Berwick

The Northumberland Coastal Path

The 64-mile Northumberland Coastal Path runs from Cresswell to Berwick, passing through some of the finest coastal scenery in England. Walk a section from Berwick south to Marshall Meadows Bay for a spectacular introduction to the route.

Tip:The section between Bamburgh and Seahouses is the most dramatic — save it for a clear day.

Food & Drink

Eat Well, Drink Well

Northumberland has a quietly excellent food scene — from harbour-fresh fish and chips to Michelin-recommended restaurants.

The Barn at Beal
15 miles south

The Barn at Beal

A farm shop, café, and restaurant right on the causeway road to Holy Island. Exceptional local produce — Northumberland beef, seasonal vegetables, and the best cheese counter in the area. The café breakfasts are legendary.

Tip:Stock up on local produce here before heading to the island.
Berwick Town Centre
On your doorstep

Berwick Town Centre

Berwick has a surprisingly good selection of independent cafés, delis, and restaurants. The Saturday market is a great place to pick up local produce.

Tip:Ask us for our current restaurant recommendations when you arrive — we keep an up-to-date list.
Coull's Restaurant
1-2 miles

Coull's Restaurant

The menu of Coulls Fish Restaurant is recommended to British cuisine lovers. This place guarantees you good battered sausages, battered cod and curry chips. Delicious wine or good beer will make your meal tastier and you'll surely come back. It might be good to try great tea or delicious coffee. The pleasant staff demonstrates a high level of quality at this restaurant. The professional service is something these restaurateurs care about. From the visitors' point of view, prices are attractive. There is a calm atmosphere and homey decor at Coulls Fish Restaurant. 4.4 is what this place got from the Google rating system.

Tip:Go at lunchtime to avoid the evening queues.

We Know This Place Inside Out

When you book with us, you get more than a cottage — you get three generations of local knowledge. We're always happy to share our favourite walks, restaurants, and hidden spots. Just ask.