Top places to visit in Northumberland
Monday, 30 January 2012 9:54 AM
For a fantastic break away, you should be sure to consider booking Northumberland holiday cottages. As one of the biggest counties – not to mention also the most northerly – in the UK, here you'll find a wealth of fantastic attractions to visit.
One place you should definitely stop by is the wonderful Bamburgh Castle.
Spread over nine acres, this medieval fortress is situated right on the coast and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country.
Here, you'll be able to explore a number of historic buildings – including Constable Tower and the 12th-century Gatehouse – as you learn more about how the castle's position as the seat for Northumbrian kings hundreds of years ago.
The castle is also home to the Armstrong and Aviation Artefacts Museum, where you'll be able to look at a range of items from both world wars.
Booking a stay at holiday homes in the region also puts you in the perfect place to visit Alnwick Castle.
This historic property is around 1,000 years old and is commonly referred to as the Windsor Castle of the north.
Go on a walk along its extensive walls and through its terraces and you'll soon discover why it has been given this accolade. Not only will it provide you a glimpse of this stunning medieval fortress up close, but you can also look out for miles at the picturesque Northumberland countryside.
Take a tour of the state rooms, meanwhile, and you'll be able to see a range of historic furniture and artwork, in addition to ornate ceiling trophies designed by Giovanni Montiroli.
Movie lovers may recognise parts of the building from the first two Harry Potter films, in which the castle was used to depict wizard school Hogwarts, so a trip here is sure to prove simply magical.
Visiting the county means you'll also be able to see the iconic Hadrian's Wall. Although the wall stretches for just over 80 miles and is partially situated in Cumbria, it is in Northumberland that you will find the best preserved parts of the landmark.
Among the many highlights to take in when walking along the wall are Cawfield Crags and Housesteads, the latter of which is the most complete Roman fort in Britain.
With so many wonderful places to visit on a cottage break, you may find yourself quickly booking another trip to Northumberland in order to take everything in!