Its untamed beauty, untouched coastlines and unparalleled beauty make Northumberland a truly unforgettable location. Tranquil valleys, ancient woodland, wild moorlands and sweeping seascapes combine to create a place that once visited, is never forgotten.
And, as England’s remote and wild border county, Northumberland has a truly unique history and culture, with so many things to see and do. So, we’ve compiled a list of little-known facts about our region to inspire your next north east adventure at Matfen Hall.
1. It’s the UK’s most peaceful National Park
With a population of just over 2,000 – Northumberland National Park is the most sparsely populated National Park in Britain. With around 0.02 persons per hectare, it’s 10 times less dense than any other National Park in the country, offering unparalleled space, peace and tranquility. Explore on foot to breathe in the unique sense of freedom and solitude and enjoy a walking adventure to meet native wildlife such as red squirrels, otters, hawks and deer.
2. It has more castles than anywhere else
Due to its location at the frontier between England and Scotland, Northumberland boasts a uniquely rich and intricate history, including the Border Wars. This history is still visible today, with over 70 castle sites still standing – more than any other county in England, and in fact, the world! A must-visit location for history-lovers, tour the county’s castles to step back in time and explore our extraordinary ancient sites.
3. It’s a bone fide filmstar
From Robin Hood Price of Thieves at Sycamore Gap to Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle, Northumberland has played a role in many blockbuster movies over the years. Most recently, Bamburgh Castle was home to Indiana Jones in the Dial of Destiny and Danny Boyle’s 28 Years Later was filmed on location across the county at Hexham, Lindisfarne, Rothbury and Kielder Forest. Visit Hogwarts at Alnwick Castle during your stay to explore the courtyards and grounds and take part in fun broomstick training sessions!
4. It has the darkest skies in England
Our remote location has one fantastic benefit, low light pollution – which means that Northumberland boasts the most pristine dark skies in England. 572 square miles of our county have Gold Tier status for dark skies, and our International Dark Sky Park is the largest in the UK. Kielder Water and Forest Park forms part of the dark sky park and a trip to its observatory offers an unforgettable stargazing experience.
5. It has the only Roman milestone in the UK
Just minutes from Matfen Hall is the UNESCO world-heritage site of Hadrian’s Wall. Built in AD 122 it stretches 73 miles from coast to coast and offers a unique opportunity to travel thousands of years back in time to follow in the footsteps of Roman legionaries. And, nearby Vindolanda is the only Roman milestone in Britain, still standing in its original position. An archeological site of international importance, Vindolanda is a fantastic way to learn even more about Roman Britain with its ancient buried forts and on-site museum.
6. It was once the largest kingdom in Britain
Following the Roman occupation Northumberland became known as the Kingdom of Northumbria. After three centuries of Roman rule nearby kingdoms such as Bernica and Deria were created and combined to become Northumbria. By 700AD it had grown to become the largest and most powerful kingdom in Britain, stretching north to the Firth of Forth in Scotland and south to the banks of the Humber River.
7. It’s the birthplace of Earl Grey tea
A sophisticated and popular drink around the world, Earl Grey tea was first created for Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey. Prime Minister in the 1830s and author of the Reform Bill of 1832, Earl Grey is a fascinating north east character, explore his estate and botanical collection at Howick Hall and visit him at Grey’s Monument in the centre of nearby Newcastle.
8. It built the country’s first prison
Built in 1333 using stone from a nearby Roman site, Hexham Gaol is the earliest purpose-built prison in England. It’s still open today as a scheduled ancient monument and museum – make it part of your visit to the pretty market town of Hexham to learn about Border Reivers and Medieval crime and punishment.
9. It’s home to England’s largest forest and Westminster’s Christmas tree
At 250 square miles, Kielder Forest is the largest working forest in England, and every year one of its towering spruce trees makes the journey south to stand outside Westminster and Big Ben as London’s twinkling Christmas tree. Take a trip to Kielder Water and Forest Park to enjoy adventurous mountain bike trails, hiking routes and Gruffalo walks for little ones !
10. It has the largest red squirrel population
Rare and endangered, red squirrels are native to Northumberland and Kielder Forest is also England’s most important red squirrel reserve, home to the biggest remaining population of red squirrels in the country.
Set in a gentle valley at the heart of Northumberland, Matfen Hall offers a peaceful retreat with a full itinerary of historic, cultural and outdoor adventures just minutes away. Enjoy a day in Northumberland before returning to luxury at our 5-star country house hotel and spa for exquisite dining and a blissful stay. Book your visit here.