Northumberland
Northumberland, the most northerly county in England, borders Scotland to the north. The county also has English borders to Cumbria on the west, and Tyne and Wear and County Durham to the south. The North Sea coastline to the east is a real asset to those interested in walks and activities along the ruggedly landscaped areas.
The county of Northumberland included Newcastle upon Tyne until 1400, when the city became a county in its own right. Along the Scottish border, you’ll find one of the most well-known historic locations, Hadrian’s wall, built in AD122 as the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire. The structure was built long before the countries of Scotland and England were born. It was simply as far north as Roman Britannia extended and runs 73 miles across Britain from coast to coast.
There’s a section within Northumberland National Park, which has points of interest seemingly at every turn, and the iconic lonely tree at Sycamore Gap, also called Robin Hood’s tree, are not to be missed. Taking the walk beside Hadrian’s wall is a stunning and inspiring experience.
Bamburgh is the historic capital of Northumberland, and here you’ll find the royal castle from before the unification of the Kingdoms of England under the monarchs of the House of Wessex in the 10th century.
Walking and hiking in this county is boundless when you take in the views, especially when hiking The Pennine Way. The views left and right give rise to other wonderful areas of this land.
South and west you’ll find the Yorkshire Dales, the Northern Pennines and over to Cumbria. Northwards, beyond the ridge, is the expanse of Northumberland towards the Scottish Lowlands. The variety of landscape is vastly different throughout, from beautiful natural beach and cliff walks to rugged moorland and hills.
Northumberland boasts a wide range of impressive habitats, heathland, moorland, and, if you’re lucky enough to see them, fascinating species. From woodland and meadows to beautiful beaches, the Northumberland Wildlife Trust safeguard a variety of natural and beautiful wild places.
The variety of activities available are impressive throughout the county, and include cycling, swimming, and even wild swimming with a guide if it’s adventure you seek. There’s coasteering for the brave, and water sports such as paddle boarding too. There are plenty of trails for cyclists and hikers, as well, allowing you to create your own adventure, whether you choose to take it easy or go full on.