Northumberland National Park
Your Complete Guide to the Northumberland National Park
The Northumberland National Park is one of the best in the UK. Rivers, rolling hills, rare wildlife and totally unpolluted skies welcome you as you explore the Cheviots, Ingram and Breamish Valleys, waterfalls and fells. The Park covers 405 square miles of the region, from Haltwhistle in the south to Wooler in the north. If you’re looking to set up a base here during your holiday, browse our selection of cottages in the National Park area, or simply visit the Park during your time in this Northern beauty spot.
Cheviot Hills
The Cheviot Hills, in the north of the park, are just one section of a larger mountain range that covers the Anglo-Scottish border. The Cheviot, the highest peak in the range, is located in Northumberland and is a hardy challenge for hikers, measuring 815m in stature. If you get to the top, locals promise that the view will blow you away. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Lake District and some have even claimed that Edinburgh is visible from the summit - but we’ll let you decide on that one.
Aside from hilly climbs, the Cheviots are also home to lots of secluded river spots, including the wild swimming ponds at Wooler Common which are a must for water lovers.
Parking
The Park has plenty of car parks across the area, particularly along Hadrian’s Wall.
A Hadrian’s Wall parking pass costs £10 for the day and can be purchased from The Sill. The Sill is a visitor centre open every day between 10am-5pm and has a cafe, shops and amazing views and is located just south-west of Cawburn.
If you are venturing further north into the park there is a car park in Alwinton near the Coquet Valley and there are four car parks in Wooler if you are visiting the Cheviots.
Yeavering Bell
Yeavering Bell is another hill walk, but with a twist. Among the grassy slopes are the remains of the largest Iron Age hillfort in the region. History lovers will love discovering the ruins and nature lovers will love the walk - even better if you love both! Keep an eye out for the elusive herd of wild goats that live here too. These fluffy friends aren’t your average looking goats either. They have distinctly long hair that has been traced back to a species of goat that originated in the Middle East and it is believed that they were brought to England during the Neolithic era.
Stargazing
Northumberland National Park is also one of the best spots in the country to stargaze. The Kielder Observatory is a must-visit for space enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a truly once-in-a-lifetime view. The Observatory is located in the heart of the Kielder forest and is by far the prime spot for viewing the night’s sky, but the Northumberland sky is awe-inspiring wherever you stand. The Observatory also offers private and group events and experiences, which you can find out more about on their website.
