Holiday Rentals & Lettings on the Northumberland Coast

If you head to the district of Alnwick in the heart of Northumberland, you'll find Alnwick Castle, the second-largest inhabited castle in the country. The fortress boasts extraordinary medieval architecture, with sumptuous Italianate-style halls and beautiful gardens. It is one of the most visited attractions on the coast and boasts one of the finest private art collections. As well as being one of the UK's most important heritage destinations, Alnwick Castle is famous for bringing Hogwarts to life in the first two Harry Potter films.

The Northumberland Coast has some of the quietest and most pristine beaches in the country. South of Alnwick, you'll find Bamburgh Castle Beach, currently the most popular of them all. It is backed by dunes and offers soft golden sands that make it perfect for long walks. Elsewhere, to the south-east of Alnwick, Alnmouth beach, situated at the mouth of the River Aln, offers expanses of dunes as well as beautiful scenery. While Embleton Bay, to the east, is a gem with abundant wildlife and views of Dunstanburgh Castle.

Boasting some of the most incredible coastal scenery in the country, the Northumberland Coast is undoubtedly an acclaimed destination for nature lovers. Northumberland has been declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so you can enjoy miles of breathtaking scenery that underlines this title. From distinctive beaches, seabird colonies and rocky outcrops to nature reserves and enchanting woodlands, if you love exploring the great outdoors, Northumberland is the place to go.

Northumberland is a gem of a place that offers a variety of adventures in all forms. From surfing on the coast, kayaking in the rivers to zip-lining through the forest and mountain biking, you'll find everything from surfing on the coast to kayaking in the rivers to zip-lining in the forest and mountain biking. On the water you can snorkel with grey seals, brave the big waves in the surf and enjoy the tranquillity of the lakes and rivers by canoe or kayak. While on land, you can ride horses on the quiet beaches, hike and mountain bike.

Considered England's finest coastal fortress, Bamburgh Castle is an attraction not to be missed. With over 10,000 years of history, take in the sweeping views across Northumberland from the fortress, discover the treasures housed in the King's Hall and view the collection of over 2,000 pieces including arms and armour, porcelain, furniture, and artwork. This castle is one of Northumberland's top tourist attractions and a jewel of Northumberland.

With extensive grounds offering a variety of unusual plants, Howick Hall Gardens is one of the top five coastal gardens in the country. Stroll through the woodland garden in late spring to see camellias and magnolias; take a look at the wildflower meadows filled with colourful tulips; stimulate your senses in the sensory garden and walk along the woodland walks to see red squirrels and swans. Howick Hall Gardens are a delight to behold.

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is the largest protected night sky area in Europe, so you won't want to miss out on keeping your eyes up at night. Enjoy this astronomical oasis at the Kielder Observatory and observe thousands of stars, the Milky Way and even the Andromeda Galaxy. It's not every day that you are lucky enough to be under the most pristine dark sky in England.

Cragside House is the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectric power. Explore the house full of incredible Victorian inventions; see the 40-year-old Scots pine, which is also Britain's tallest tree; visit the largest rock garden in Europe; and wander through the hilly landscape, which is home to everything from lakes to waterfalls. You can also find three restaurants at Cragside to refuel after wandering around the property.

Set in 15 acres of countryside, Northumberland Zoo is a must on your list of places to visit. With a wide range of cuddly animals, you can see everything from raccoons to ponies. Meet the arctic fox, armadillo, otters, Canada lynx, chinchilla, capybara, snow leopard and many other wonderful animals. After your zoo adventure, stop by the Bear Falls Café for pizza and fries.