Top 10: Northumberland’s best experiences
Photograph by @adventure_cal
For those who want to make their Northumberland 250 experience even more memorable, we have rounded up Northumberland’s top 10 activities and experiences for 2022.
From circumnavigating Northern Europe’s largest man-made lake to a Nordic tent-sauna experience on a stunning Northumberland beach - Let us inspire you, to see and do the very best that Northumberland has to offer in the year ahead.
10. Roam with Romans
Photograph by @ancient_britain
This award winning tour transports you back 2000 years to a time when Hadrian’s Wall was a frontier, a place where two cultures collided. Local guides, dressed in authentic costume of the era, weave a narrative from both sides of the wall, revealing the tales of the natives, and the stories told by the occupying forces. Roman history comes to life when you discover just what Britain was like under the Caesars.
The Northumberland National Park provides a magnificent backdrop as you explore the hidden archaeological gems of Northumberland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
Prices from: £30.00 pp
Suitable for: All ages
Find out more: www.ancientbritain.org
9. SUP Cook Out
Photograph by @adventure_cal
Explore the region’s best waterway by SUP. CBK’s ‘SUP Cook Out’ combines a great day out on the boards, with an outdoor cooking workshop in the wild.
After building up an appetite stand-up paddleboarding on some of the most picturesque stretches of the River Tyne, pull over, park the boards and cook your lunch over an open flame. You can choose your own menu option from the specially selected local cuisine, before preparing it over a campfire and enjoy very own outdoor feast.
CBK follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles throughout the tour, ensuring they leave the natural environment as pristine as it was found.
Price: £109 pp
Suitable for: Adults and accompanied children aged 16+
Find out more: www.cbkadventure.co.uk
8. Dive with Seals
Photograph by @bwmphoto
Diving in and around the Farne Islands is a real feast for the senses. Numerous wrecks litter the seabed, and you can expect an encounter with some of the Farne’s 4000-strong inquisitive grey seal colony who will often greet those who explore their habitat.
In the water the seals move with sleek and nimble movements as they hunt amongst the mystical kelp beds. Whether you prefer a shallow dive or are prepared to delve that little bit deeper, there’s something to suit everyone out at the Farnes.
Boat charter from: £50pp
Requirements: Full diving qualifications and experience required to dive the Farne Islands.
Find out more: www.farne-islands.com
7. Cycle the Lakeside Way
Photograph by @tonorthumberlandandbeyond
Surrounding Northern Europe’s largest man made lake is a superb network of trails which all are well maintained by the forestry commission. The longest of which is a 27-mile route known as ‘The Lakeside Way’.
Circumnavigating the reservoir on 2-wheels is one of the best ways to experience all of what Kielder has to offer. Bring your own bike or hire from The Bike Place located near Kielder village (open 7-days a week).
Don’t underestimate the distance. To get round the lake usually takes 3-4 hours!
Mountain bike hire from: £45.00
Find out more: www.thebikeplace.co.uk
6. Coasteering at Howick
Photograph by @ka_adventuresports_
Experience one of Northumberland’s most dramatic stretches of coastline in the most adventurous way possible. Coasteering is a mixture of sea swimming, cliff traversing, rock pooling and cliff jumping, and Howick is blessed with a natural superb environment for this adrenaline-fuelled activity.
The area is home to caves, tunnels, rock pools, big jumps and endless features to see and experience.
Guided lessons can be tailored to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring that you get the most out of your experience, pushing you to your limits or keeping the session as chilled as can be.
Prices from: £50 pp
Find out more: www.kaadventuresports.co.uk
5. Discover Dark Skies
Photograph by @danmonk91
2-miles up a woodland track, high upon Black Fell, in the remote reaches of Kielder Forest, you will find undoubtedly the most spectacular public observatory in the UK - a magical place from which to explore the wonders of Northumberland international dark sky park.
There’s something quite extraordinary about adventuring to the most remote corner of England, in the early hours, to learn about the universe and discuss the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
All events tickets must be bought in advance and remember to wrap up warm!
Tickets from: £30.00 pp
Find out more: www.kielderobservatory.org
4. Surf in the shadow of Coastal Castles
Photograph by @amslebrun
With wide sandy bays and energetic coastal waves, it will come as as no surprise that the Northumberland coast is a haven those who are into water sports, and in particular, surfing!
Whether you are an experienced surfer who talks the lingo, or a beginner who is cautiously learning, the surfing beaches in Northumberland can host a multitude of abilities.
Great waves, large sandy beaches and magical scenery which evokes a connection between the present day and life thousands of years ago; you’re in for a great day on the waves.
Prices from: £30.00 pp
Find out more: www.surfnorthumberland.co.uk
3. Defender Camping
Photograph by @nlanddefenders
Explore the Northumberland 250 driving route in an adventure-ready Land Rover Defender equipped with everything you’ll need for an unforgettable road trip, including roof-top-tent accommodation.
Choose your companion - Hadrian (Defender 110) or Cuthbert (Defender 90) - to journey through the land of dark skies, rolling hills, and exquisite coastline.
The ultimate Northumberland 250 experience, just bring your sleeping bag and a sense of adventure!
Prices from: £125 per day
Find out more: www.northumberlandefenders.com
2. Take to the Skies
Photograph by @rsfilm_photography
Northumberland, like you’ve never seen it before. Take to the skies with a Northumberland flight experience which is ideal for any budding pilot, adventure seeker, aviation enthusiast or someone who appreciates the stunning landscape of Northumberland.
A unique fleet of light aircraft fly from Eshott Airfield, ranging from fixed wing microlights to vintage military training aircraft.
On every flight you'll get to witness the stunning coastline, castles and iconic scenery that Northumberland has to offer.
Prices from: £95.00
Find out more: www.eshottairfield.com
1. Ice Dip Social
Photograph by @adventure_cal
Embrace life at 55ºN with this new and invigorating experience created by CBK Adventure. Following a dip in the cold North Sea waters, enter the therapeutic Finnish tent sauna and relaxation space. It’s here where you can chill out and enjoy delicious local food cooked over an open flame. The whole experience comes together to create a unique day at the beach.
This experience is exclusively available to small private groups and is the perfect way to reconnect with friends in an unforgettable setting.
CBK follow strict ‘Leave No Trace’ principles with this experience, and ensure the environment is left as pristine as found.
Prices from: £99 pp (Private group bookings only - minimum 8 people)
Find out more: www.cbkadventure.co.uk