Days Out: April in Northumberland

Whilst on our camping trip we managed to explore around Northumberland a bit. It’s a wild looking county with plenty of history. Something I made sure we took advantage of!

We walked alongside Hadrian’s Wall and paid a visit to Vindolanda Roman ruins and museum. The scale of the excavations there was incredible, and a really interesting day out even for those of our friends who aren’t quite the history geeks I am.

Easter Monday was spent exploring Bamburgh Castle and its beautiful neighbouring beach. I had no idea the castle was still intact (in my head I had it confused with the ruins at Lindisfarne.) Size wise it was almost on a par with Edinburgh castle, and the views overlooking the beach from its ramparts were stunning. We even managed to squeeze in a bit of rockpooling. I definitely want to come back and explore more of this coastline along towards Seahouses and across to the Farne Islands.

On Tuesday we visited Alnwick Castle. Somewhere I was very excited to visit with its Harry Potter and Downton Abbey links! We wandered round both the castle and the adjoining gardens. The gardens were a little lacking (apparently they’re more impressive in June) but the tour around the poison garden was fascinating. I didn’t realise quite how many of the plants in our garden could kill me!

The castle itself was fantastic, with walks around the walls and a range of little musuems squeezed into the various towers. The state rooms were by far my favourite though. The decor in there was beautiful, and similar to that of our wedding reception venue which made me very excited!

Where would you recommend visiting in Northumberland if we make a trip back? Jonny’s already hoping for a trip walking Hadrian’s Wall!