Northumberland is an area of the UK that deals in extremes. It sits in the north-east of England, and when it’s not battered by storms coming off the North Sea, it’s deluged by rains over its expansive moorlands. If you are a fan of empty, desolate, bleak landscapes, this is the county for you. Read on for three key places to visit.
Holy Island, Lindisfarne
This island, connected to the mainland by a causeway that is only accessible at low tide, was the site of the first Viking raid on British soil. Come and admire the ruins of the ancient monastery, which was destroyed by those raiders, and enjoy the stunning views around the coastline and out to sea. If you’re lucky, you will see and hear the seals which come to nurse their young on nearby rocky outcrops.
Alnwick Castle, Alnwick
This stunning castle was the location for much of the filming in the Harry Potter series, and fans can come and visit the rooms where the cast acted some of those famous scenes. For the horticulturalists, there is also a fascinating poison garden, a collection of many of the plants that can be deadly to humans when ingested! If neither of those attractions appeal, come to Alnwick Castle to admire the sheer scale of its architecture and history.
Kielder Forest National Park
Wander through ancient pine woods in this enchanting area of Northumberland. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, which are making a slow comeback in this part of the UK, and for the elusive goshawk, an awesome forest predator.