Campsites in Northumberland

Camping in Northumberland is great for a family holiday, a romantic weekend away or a solo adventure. There’s so much to see and do, whether you fancy relaxing on your getaway, diving into the county’s history and culture, or taking on thrilling adventures and exploring the outdoors. Here are some must-see things to do on your camping trip to Northumberland.

Discover Northumberland National Park

Northumberland National Park is England’s northernmost national park, covering an area of 1,050 square kilometres. It stretches from the Scottish border down to just south of Hadrian’s Wall, offering some of the country's most unspoilt and dramatic landscapes.

Known for its rugged terrain, rolling hills, and peaceful valleys, the park is a haven for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. With various walking and cycling routes, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Nature lovers will also enjoy the chance to spot incredible wildlife roaming the park, including deer, red squirrels, and spectacular birds of prey.

Although daytime adventures are unforgettable, Northumberland National Park is just as breathtaking at night. As part of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, one of Europe's largest protected dark sky areas, it’s the perfect spot for stargazing. Lay out a blanket or sleeping bag and watch the stars dance across the sky.

If that’s not enticing enough, the park is also popular with thrill-seekers and adventurers. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can try rock climbing, bouldering, abseiling, or wild swimming in the park’s remote and beautiful spots.

Dive into Northumberland’s fascinating history

Northumberland was once the scene of numerous battles between England and Scotland and boasts a colourful history. Indeed, the many castles, fortifications, and ancient sites dotted around the county tell a wonderful story about England’s ancient past. These attractions hold historic significance and are worth a visit:

Hadrian’s Wall

Built in AD 122, Hadrian’s Wall stretches 73 miles across the country and stands as a remarkable reminder of Roman history. Now, the UNESCO World Heritage Site offers something for everyone — from breathtaking views across the Northumberland landscape to various walking trails and cycling routes. The official Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail spans 84 miles, but you can also enjoy shorter circular walks that still showcase the area's stunning scenery and rich heritage.

Bamburgh Castle

One of the many castles you’ll visit while camping in Northumberland is Bamburgh Castle. Learn about the myths and legends tied to the castle, the rich history surrounding its ownership, and the defence mechanisms that have protected it since Roman times. Plenty of paranormal stories are connected to the castle for those who like to investigate the spooky side of old buildings.

Corbridge Roman Town

Corbridge Roman Town was once a bustling settlement where Romans and civilians traded. The Roman armour and artefacts discovered on the site can be viewed in the museum as part of the Corbridge Hoard. Look out for the Corbridge Lion, which was originally used to decorate a mausoleum and then turned into a water feature in one of the settlement’s largest homes.

Alnwick Castle

Calling all Harry Potter fans! You’ll love visiting Alnwick Castle as it was the official filming location of the Harry Potter series. If you enjoy visiting filming locations in the UK, Alnwick Castle was also used to film Downton Abbey. Although the castle has evolved throughout the centuries, it has still been a key feature here since Norman times. During your visit, explore the state rooms, marvel at the architecture, and visit the museums before taking one of the broomstick training classes. The Courtyard Café, Stables Fryery and Armoury Takeaway offer a variety of foods and dining options.

Chillingham Castle

One of the most haunted castles in Britain is open to the public for exploration. The 12th-century building includes the armoury, dungeon, great hall, library, chapel, torture chamber, and more. If you enjoy spooky surprises, the castle hosts regular ghost tours, which you can book before camping in Northumberland.

Woodhorn Museum

Learn all about Northumberland’s mining past at Woodhorn Museum. The former colliery offers hands-on exhibits and a look at the old mine workings that survived bombings during the Second World War.

Prudhoe Castle

The ruined Prudhoe Castle has many stories to tell about its Norman past. Explore the grounds, keep, and great hall, or simply enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings.

Explore the Northumberland coast

In modern times, Northumberland is a peaceful escape. It covers just under 2,000 square miles and boasts 100 miles of coastline, much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The sparsely populated coastal region offers miles of clean and safe waters, award-winning golden sandy beaches, and tranquil countryside. Recognised for its breathtaking scenery, the Northumberland Coast is the perfect place to unwind and explore.

Here are some of the best beaches and coastal spots to visit:

Farne Islands

Managed by the National Trust, the Farne Islands are a collection of rocky islands home to spectacular wildlife, including puffins and seals. Board a boat from Seahouses to visit any of the three accessible islands. Look out for the rangers on the Island, who can answer wildlife questions and point out any interesting finds.

Bamburgh Castle Beach

The majestic Bamburgh Castle overlooks Bamburgh Castle Beach and offers stretches of pristine sand. It’s the perfect spot to bask in the sun, build sandcastles with the family, or simply take in the stunning views of the castle towering above the coastline.

Seahouses Beach

For the perfect traditional seaside day out, visit Seahouses Beach while camping in Northumberland. You’ll be welcomed by golden sands, rock pools, and beautiful views of the Farne Islands. The bustling village nearby also adds to the charm, offering fish and chips, boat rides and independent shops for unique souvenirs.

Cresswell Beach

Cresswell Beach is one of the best on the Northumberland coast, with areas for rockpooling and plenty of sandy space to relax. This beach is dog-friendly, making it an ideal spot for those who are camping in Northumberland with their dogs.

Visit popular Northumberland attractions

Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre

Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre is an eco-friendly, volunteer-led bird and wildlife spotting centre. Visitors can enjoy nature trails, wildlife spotting from hides, and great views from The Lookout Café.

Kielder Observatory

Located in the Kielder Forest, the Kielder Observatory is open to the public with views of some of the darkest skies in Europe. With limited light pollution, the area is fantastic for stargazing, with or without any prior experience. Events are run throughout the year and are a great way to introduce kids to astronomy.

Chain Bridge Honey Farm

Chain Bridge Honey Farm in Berwick-upon-Tweed has a visitor centre full of information about bees as well as an observation hive, so you can see the honey bees at work. Look in the beekeeper’s Garden to see which plants attract the bees, and make sure you stop off at the double-decker bus café. This honey farm is a great learning experience for kids, and you can purchase some tasty fresh honey.

Cragside House

The National Trust owned Cragside House is a Victorian estate with gardens and woodland to explore. Visitors can enjoy Victorian home baking, walks in the woodland retreat, and the vintage collection of objects in the house.