Northumberland is a wild and expansive corner of England, so choosing where to stay is important. Here is our pick of the best places to stay in Northumberland for your perfect escape.
By - Mark Barnes | Published - 4 Jan 2023 | Go to - Comments & Questions
As one of the largest and most remote counties in England, choosing the best places to stay in Northumberland is no easy task. Dominated by wild and barren landscapes, blessed with barely-visited beaches and charmed by lush green forests, there’s a corner of Northumberland to suit a variety of scenic tastes.
Stretching from the Scottish borders in the north to Tyneside in the South, history and nature coalesce in a county full of surprises. Low and flat coastal areas proved irresistible to the elite who dotted the area with fortified castles, while the increasingly mountainous northwest is an outdoor playground with rolling landscapes and scenic forests.
The distances can be large, taking up to 2 hours to drive from one end to the other, so it’s important to stay in a location that’s convenient to the activities in Northumberland you would like to undertake.
We have split the area into three sections to help you choose the experience that’s right for you. Whether you plan to delve deep into English history, base yourself close to transport connections or get off the beaten track, here is our pick of the best accommodation in Northumberland.
IN THIS GUIDE
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN NORTHUMBERLAND
01 – HADRIAN’S WALL
HADRIANS WALL & NORTHUMBERLAND NATIONAL PARK
Best place to stay in Northumberland for Roman history, forests and rolling green hills.
Hadrian’s Wall stretches for 73 miles from coast to coast along undulating countryside in the Northumberland National Park. Set amongst beautiful rolling hills, glacial lakes, and rocky crags, it’s one of the finest Roman remains in the country.
Along with North Pennines to the south and the Kielder Forest to the north, the Northumberland National Park is a magnificent base to explore Roman history. Set amongst hills that appear to be marching north, just like the Romans themselves, this part of Northumberland has excellent walking, interesting museums, and soulful craft beer.
Our guide to Hadrian’s Wall has tips for seeing the best of the area, and below are some suggestions for where to stay near the Northumberland National Park.
BARDON MILL
TWICE BREWED INN
Just 500m from the most scenic section of the Hadrian’s Wall Path, it doesn’t get much better located than this. On-site brewed ales make for a merry night and the AD122 bus stops right outside.
WARK
BATTLESTEADS
This 18th-century farmstead, stylishly converted into a country inn, retains the beamed ceilings and cosy wood-burning stove. It’s received a Gold Award for its eco-credentials and the menu is based around the kitchen garden.
FALSTONE
THE PHEASANT INN
Nestled in the heart of the Northumberland National Park with magnificent views, this coaching inn has modernised the rooms but maintained a cosy and intimate feel in the bar and lounge. There are few finer places to sit and warm up after a full day in the hills than by their roaring fire.
ALNWICK & THE SOUTHERN NORTHUMBERLAND COAST
Best place to stay in Northumberland for lovely market towns and good transport links
The southern end of the Northumberland coast contains bigger towns and facilities that are perfect if you want to explore the area with additional conveniences.
The large market town of Alnwick is the central hub, and a great choice if you are visiting without a car. Stroll the massive castle and gardens or sit at cafes surrounding the market square. Just outside town are more great places to visit in Northumberland. Explore the village of Warkworth, dominated by the castle on the bend of the River Coquet, and the charming village of Alnmouth served by several excellent boutique Northumberland hotels.
Transport connections are good with Craster and Dunstanburgh connected to Alnwick in around 30 minutes. It’s also just a short hop into Newcastle. Here’s our pick of the best Northumberland hotels in the area.
ALNWICK
POSTHOUSE
Good budget self-catering apartments right in the centre of Alnwick from where buses leave to all over the Northumberland Coast.
ALNWICK
THE COOKIE JAR
A Grand old hotel with a beautifully designed interior that is high on style and low on stuffiness. It’s a stone’s throw from Alnwick Castle so you’re well-located to explore the area.
ALNMOUTH
GARDEN STABLE AT HALLSTEADS
Luxurious apartment in the centre of the lovely village of Alnmouth. Modern and bright it is well-appointed, and has onsite parking plus a lovely garden, making it a great self-catering option.
WARKWORTH
WARKWORTH HOUSE HOTEL
On the high street in the heart of charming Warkworth village, this lovely old coaching inn has stylish rooms combined with friendly yet professional service. A great base for exploring the Northumberland Coast.
BAMBURGH & THE NORTHERN NORTHUMBERLAND COAST
Best place to stay in Northumberland for getting away from it all in the most remote region
The northern end of the Northumberland Coast is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Much less populated than its southern counterpart, wide secluded beaches are a short stroll to a local country pub, and mediaeval ruins rise from the rugged landscape. It’s also home to some of our favourite hikes in Northumberland.
A short drive inland brings you to the Cheviot Hills around Wooler where you can explore the rolling landscape that follows the Scottish border with secret waterfalls and hidden ponds. Even in the height of summer, it’s possible to find a spot all to yourself in this part of Northumberland.
You could easily visit the northern section from the area around Alnwick as it’s less than a one-hour drive away. However, if you are looking for less traffic and a bit more peace and quiet, then try some of these Northumberland hotels and cottages.
BEADNELL
BEADNELL TOWERS HOTE
This fantastic value boutique hotel tucked into the village of Beadnell features a modern design with a great bar and breakfast room. The nearby beach has water sports facilities to hire.
NEWTON BY THE SEA
JOINERS ARMS
A charming pub in the village of Newton by the Sea, the food is excellent, and it’s superbly located near magnificent beaches. Dunstanburgh Castle is also nearby.
BAMBURGH
THE VICTORIA HOTE
Day trippers to Bamburgh are plentiful, so it’s nice to be here before everyone arrives and after they have gone home. Smack in the centre of the village this Northumberland hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms many overlooking the castle.
BAMBURGH
DAISY COTTAGE
This one-bedroom house just inland from the coast allows you to self-cater in style, relax on its sun terrace and yet only be a few minutes from many of the highlights of the Northumberland Coast.
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