We'd been planning a 5 week trip thru Italy, Switzerland, and France (much of it repeat for my husband and me) with our daughter's family of 5 ending with a friend's wedding in a castle in Northumberland, England in early July. But an unexpected family death forced us to cancel the first 4 weeks (delayed until next summer) and now I need to scramble to figure out what to do if only my husband and I go and stay another week or two after the wedding. We've not been to the UK (except for an overnight in London to take the Chunnel) and are open to any of the areas once we're finished in Northumberland. Because I have little time to research I thought I'd ask you for help. We love nature and the scenic outdoors, hiking, church and secular history, ancient small towns and villages, etc. more than larger cities. Any suggestions of areas of concentration would be helpful in Ireland, Scotland, England or Wales. Thank you in advance.
Posted by
Royaume-Uni nul points, pas plus
2600 posts
plenty to keep you busy in Northumberland - Hadrian's Wall, the Cheviots, castles, coastline, small towns such as Rothbury, Alnwick, Corbridge, Hexham. Religious history at Holy Island; Farne Islands for wildlife. Durham Cathedral and Beamish Museum further south.
http://www.visitnorthumberland.com/
There's also the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, Scottish Borders. You're spoilt for choice really in that part of the world.
Posted by
2599 posts
The East Coast Mainline goes through Northumberland. This means it is easy to catch a train for a day out in Edinburgh. Alnwick & Berwick-upon-Tweed are 2 places on this route with trains to Edinburgh. (It is also possible to drive to Edinburgh but you may find that more hassle). Trains = www.nationalrail.co.uk
https://www.visitscotland.com/destinations-maps/edinburgh-lothians/
In Northumberland check out:>https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside
http://www.bamburghcastle.com
https://www.alnwickcastle.com
http://hadrianswallcountry.co.uk
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
I agree with Ramblin - Northumberland is one of my favourite counties in England. Gorgeous beaches and castles, plenty of historical towns and some of the friendliest people in the country.
Posted by
Nederland, CO
1530 posts
I take your post to read you are looking for suggestions on other areas to explore away from Northumberland. I would suggest North Wales. Lots of castles, snowdon for hiking and beaches.