Northumberland is a wonderful place for all the family to explore, with miles of forestry and historic landmarks to be discovered. From exploring the world famous Hardians wall and sampling locally brewed ales to navigating the waters of Kielder. Pack your stay with us full of memories.
Learn more below!
Cragside House and Gardens
Home to Britain’s very first ‘smart house’… A victorian masterpiece. Once the residence of Lord and lady Armstrong in the 19th century, and gifted to the National trust, this vast estate is well worth a visit. Lots of walks and a fabulous country house to explore. The venue will be included if you have a national trust membership. Whats more….its dog friendly (not including the house).
Hadrians wall
At the Black, we are perfectly placed to explore the many attractions along Hadrians Wall. Start the day with a short drive (25 mins) to the Roman fort of Vindolanda. Moving on to the Sill museum which is free and built to be accessible for all. After getting your fill of Roman facts, a short drive will deliver you to the famous Sycamore gap on Hardians Wall. A great walking spot and photo opportunity. Close by you will find the Twice Brewed Inn, a local brewery and pub.
Kielder Water and Forrest Park
Adventure is less than a 30-Minute drive away! Take the scenic route through rich forests to Kielder water and forest park. With over 250 square miles to roam and home to Europe’s largest man made lake, you are truly spoiled for things to do whilst spending the day in Kielder. From adventurous mountain bike trails, open lake water sports, horse riding and many more! Kielder has it all! Kielder is also part of the Dark skies area, one of the best stargazing locations in the UK.
A trip to Alnwick
A day trip to Alnwick is well worth the hour or so drive.
Start off at The Alnwick Castle and Gardens. An absolute winner for all the family, the Castle was where the first Harry Potter films were shot. There’s plenty for young and old to do and the opening of Europes biggest playground Llindori (book in advance) is a fantastic activity for kids of all ages.
The historic market town of Alnwick has lots to offer. Little independent shops, cafes and pubs are all part of the charm.
On the way out of Alnwick, be sure to stop at Barter books. One of the the biggest second hand bookshops in the UK, featuring a train track that runs throughout the book stacks, this quirky attraction shouldn’t be missed!
A golfers paradise
Here in Northumberland, we really are spoiled for choice when it comes to Golf courses. The two closest courses are in Hexham (12 miles) and Bellingham (7 miles). If you are willing to go further afield then Matfen, Ponteland and Alnmouth are also well worth a visit. You could spend two weeks with us and play a different course every day!
A trip to Hexham
The beautiful market town of Hexham is a short 20 minute drive away. With numerous independent cafes, shops and restaurants there is plenty to see and do.
The independent Forum cinema is a traditional and charming venue which offers a trip down memory lane.
Hexham Abbey often has fabulous exhibitions to explore (see website for details). There is also a wonderful café on site.
The Moot Hall and Old Gaol are also worth a visit.
If you are travelling with kids, then Tyne Green Park is a wonderful park with something for all ages. Running alongside the river there will be plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife (and the occasional rower!).
If you enjoy a car boot, the Hexham mart has a well attended car boot sale every Sunday (please check online before visiting)
Rest and Relaxation
If you have exhausted yourself with all the exploring, or if a completely relaxing break is what you are after, Northumberland also has you covered.
There are numerous hotel spa experiences within an easy drive of your apartment. We recommend Slaley Hall, Doxford Hall and Matfen Hall.
Farm Visits for all the family
Here in Northumblerland, we really are spoiled for choice when it comes to getting closer to nature.
If a farm visit is something you and the family would like, we have some great options close by.
Wheelbirks farm and ice cream parlour is a crowd pleaser. With Donkeys, chickens, a kids corner and large garden to enjoy in the warm weather. There’s also an on site pottery workshop which is perfect for a rainy day. The ice cream cream is made onsite and is not to be missed! Located in Stocksfield - 30 minute drive.
High house barn also has lots to offer. An on site brewery, restaurant and lots of activities available we would recommend a visit. Located in Matfen - 20 minute drive.
Whitehouse farm is a great day out. With an adventure playground and lots of different animals to feed and pet. There’s also a Café on-site to enjoy some scrumptious food. This is a great value day out. Located just outside Morpeth - 45 minute drive.
Unspoiled Beaches
The Northumberland coast has miles of beaches to explore. We recommend:
Bamburgh - 1hr 25min drive
Newton by the Sea - 1hr 15min drive
Cresswell - 1 hour drive