Quiet, tranquil and home to a unique, wild beauty, any trip to Northumberland is an opportunity to take the road less travelled. A moment to lose the the crowds and find yourself in rolling landscapes and wide, open skies.
England’s least populated and most peaceful National Park, Northumberland already offers unmatched peace for a refreshing spring retreat. But if you’re looking for something even more off the beaten track, our guide to the local favourites, secret spots and hidden gems of Northumberland will help you plan a unique getaway.
And nestled at its heart, our historic estate is a natural fit for travellers looking for a calming balance of luxury and tranquility. Set in 300 acres of private parkland, within easy reach of the region’s landmarks and beauty spots, Matfen Hall is a haven of gentle indulgence and quiet luxury – the ideal base for a spring retreat you’ll never forget.
History
Ford & Etal – A real local favourite for families and history-lovers alike, the Ford & Etal estate is home to a wealth of walking trails and historical sites, with plenty of fun along the way. Etal Castle, Lady Waterford Hall and Heatherslaw Corn Mill offer a unique insight into this fascianting part of the world. While the Heatherslaw Light Railway, Cheviot microbrewery, countryside activities and a programme of events running through the spring and summer offers enough to keep all ages entertained.
Cherryburn – Home to world-renowned artist, wood-engraver and naturalist, Thomas Bewick, Cherryburn is just minutes from our estate. Sweet and unassuming, the farmhouse and gardens welcome you into a world that inspired Bewick’s famous works. Discover the magic of engraving and spend time in the natural landscape to escape to a simpler time.
Chillingham Castle – Feeling brave? Chillingham Castle is known as Britain’s most haunted historic castle. The 12th century stronghold near Alnwick endured many battles and sieges over the centuries and hosts regular evening ghosts tours. If you’d prefer to visit during daylight, the castle’s own unique history with grounds landscaped by Capability Brown and herds of ancient wild cattle are enough for a fascinating day out.
Walks
Hareshaw Linn – The pretty village of Bellingham sits on the border of Kielder Forest but is home to its own, spectacular woodland walk. A signposted forest trail takes you up through canopies of oak, hazel and ash trees towards the breathtaking Hareshaw Linn waterfall. One of the most tranquil walks in the county, the sounds of birdsong, running water and rustling branches will accompany you on your way.
Linhope Spout – If you love wild swimming but fancy a bit of solitude, Linhope Spout is the perfect choice. A circular walk in the spectacular Cheviot Hills takes you past views of Dunmoor Hill, through woodland populated by endangered red squirrels and to Linhope Spout where a 60-foot waterfall cascades into a 16 foot deep plunge pool. Dive in and enjoy a truly unique view of Hedgehope Hill, the second highest in Northumberland.
Embleton – The Northumberland coastline is growing in popularity, with beaches such as Bamburgh being named one of the best ‘One Of A Kind’ beaches in the word by TripAdvisor. But just a few miles along the shore and you’ll find true, unmatched quiet at Embleton Bay. Endless sands stretch towards Dunstanburgh Castle and the pretty Ship Inn invites guests to enjoy their drinks on the green, looking out to sea.
Towns & Villages
Corbridge – Cobbled streets, artisan shops and river walks – the picture perfect village of Corbridge is just a few miles from our estate. Spend a relaxed afternoon watching the world go by with a coffee, explore its ancient Roman town or pop into some of the independent shops to take home something special.
Blanchland – Once home to monks, whose white habits gave the village its name, Blanchland is now a gentle and picturesque village at the border of the North Pennines. Take a walk through woodland and up onto the heather moors to blow away the cobwebs. Or stay in the village to browse its quirky shops and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the historic Lord Crewe Arms.
Alnmouth – No day out at the coast is complete without a stop at Alnmouth, a fishing village like no other. Here, pretty pastel coloured houses, sand dunes and a tranquil stretch of beach are complemented by art galleries and Northumberland’s smallest museum, The Ferryman’s Hut where passengers were once rowed across the Rivier Aln – now home to records of the.
Looking forward to discovering the hidden gems of Northumberland? Book your spring stay at Matfen Hall here.