Weekend Breaks in Northumberland

For fans of Harry Potter, Alnwick is an obvious destination: visit the famous medieval castle for a real-life Hogwarts. This quiet market town also has a wonderful public garden, which even includes a poison garden with over 100 species of deadly or narcotic plants. Meanwhile, the Bailiffgate Museum ​is the place to go to learn more about Alnwick's history.

The coastal town of Bamburgh offers visitors sea views, beaches, an imposing castle and the RNLI Grace Darling museum. There are plenty of coastal paths for walkers, while rock pools and the white sand beaches will occupy children for hours.

With its beautiful sandy beaches, peaceful riverside paths and impressive Elizabethan city walls, this town at Northumberland's tip has plenty of attractions. Make sure you take the time to walk a circuit of the walls to enjoy the views across the estuary and marvel at the Royal Border Bridge.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne lies a mile from the mainland across a tidal causeway. Its twelfth century priory survived attacks by the Vikings but was dissolved during the Reformation on the orders of Henry VIII, who also built Lindisfarne Castle. Nature-lovers will be at home here, as the island is a nature reserve and hosts many flocks of birds.

As the Roman Empire's north-west frontier, Hadrian's Wall is a must-see for history-buffs. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, there are various museums and forts along the 73 mile long wall. You might also get the chance to watch an excavation or dress up like a Roman soldier.