Lookout Cottage

With over 30 miles of stunning sandy beaches, guests are spoilt for choice. Bamburgh, Budle Bay, Lindisfarne and Seahouses all sit nearby with pristine white sands perfect for sandcastle making, rock pools made for dabbling in, hidden coves and deep sheltered sand dunes ideal for cosy picnics, and stunning sunsets on a balmy summer evening.

For walking, it's an ideal gateway to the Cheviot Hills and the extensive walking routes available there. You can link into St. Cuthbert’s Way from Wooler or there is a 4.5-mile circular walk to historic St Cuthbert’s Cave from nearby Holburn which takes in the important wildlife areas of Holburn Lake & Moss.

You can join The Devil’s Causeway just over one mile to the east, a Roman road which starts at Port Gate on Hadrian’s Wall north of Corbridge and extending 55 miles northwards across Northumberland to the mouth of the River Tweed at Berwick-upon-Tweed.

For coastal hikes, take time out to spot the rich birdlife on the Northumberland Coastal Path, or enjoy a leisurely 10-mile walk from Belford to Seahouses, taking in fantastic views of the Farne Islands and Budle Bay.

The area is punctuated by iconic castles, stately homes and fortifications which are testament to the area’s rich and dramatic past. Pay a visit to the magnificent castles of Alnwick, Bamburgh or Chillingham where you can discover tales of bloody battles and royal rebellion, or enjoy the stunning stately homes and gardens of Belsay, Cragside, Wallington or Paxton House. Harry Potter was filmed at Alnwick Castle and children will particularly enjoy the wizardly magic of characters inspired by Hagrid and Harry, including a spot of Broomstick Training!

Foodies will enjoy the fine local produce in one of the many pubs or restaurants in the area - everything from the freshest fish and chips to fine dining experiences! The very popular Barn at Beal is nearby with amazing views over to Holy Island, or The Ship at Newton-by-the-Sea has a great reputation for serving good food along with ale from its own microbrewery. Not to be missed is the delicately flavoured kippers from Craster, or a tipple of infamous Lindisfarne Mead.

For action sports, surfing, kitesurfing and coasteering is available at Budle Bay, Beadnell and Bamburgh, while canoeing can be arranged on the nearby coastal waters or river systems. There are also extensive cycling and mountain biking trails in and around the area, with the Coast and Castles route a firm favourite. For riding, Swinhoe, Kimmerston and Slate Hall riding centres all come recommended, offering lessons, treks and wonderful beach rides.

Golf enthusiasts are well catered for with Belford, Goswick and Bamburgh courses nearby, and easy access to an incredibly varied choice of over 60 PGA, links and parkland courses right across the Borders and Northumberland.

Salmon fishing on the North Tyne can be arranged through the owners, or guests can head to the lakes at Chatton which offers fly fishing for trout or try Coldingham Loch for bank or boat fishing - both helpful and friendly venues. River fishing is available on the Till or the world-renowned Tweed system.