Why we love glamping in Northumberland

If you’re going glamping in Northumberland, you might be thinking of rolling hills and fields, but spare a thought (and a couple of days) for the stunning Northumberland coast. Druridge beach is a whopper, with seven miles of pristine sands backed by dunes and pools which will delight birdwatchers - wildfowl and goldeneye are regularly spotted along with a host of other avian life. Near Alnwick, Bamburgh beach is overlooked by the majestic Bamburgh Castle and is one of the best beaches in Northumberland. After a wander of the coast, explore the castle and learn of the monastic history. From the turrets, gaze over the water to the Inner Farne Islands.

Young families will love Embleton Bay for its shallow waters, perfect for tiny toes to paddle in. When the tide is out, the expansive sands offer up many rock pools ideal for discovering interesting crabs, very interesting shells and even more interesting rocks. Make sure you show everyone your finds, kids! One of the best things to do in Northumberland is to immerse yourself in its rich stories. If you are into history and are glamping in Northumberland, head to Harbour Beach on Holy Island where you can swim in calm waters whilst admiring the 26th century Lindisfarne Castle and its medieval priory.

Nature-lovers will adore stomping Kielder Forest, the UK’s largest forest and home to the country’s biggest red squirrel population. It features The Lakeside Way, a multi-use trail suitable for walkers, bikers, wheelchair users and horse riders, that takes in the most scenic views. The circular walk of Simonside Hills is a popular choice for anyone glamping in Northumberland. It’s a fairly moderate 7-mile loop over sandstone hills, passing ancient Bronze Age cairns and glorious scenery. There are some steep gradients, so this one isn’t suitable for small children.

One of the great things to do in Northumberland is to visit the famed Hadrians Wall. Make a day of it and follow in the footsteps of Romans, with several routes taking in the epic scenery and the hardcore option of walking all 84 miles! Straddling the Scottish Borders and the northern-most Northumberland national park, you’ll find the glorious Cheviot Hills, home to some of the best walks in Northumberland. The range peaks at 815 metres and on a clear day you can see all the way to the Lake District.

Spend a little time around waterfalls in Northumberland and everything feels a little brighter. One of the area’s best-kept secrets is Roughting Linn on the Broomridgedean Burn, hidden in remote woodland. Nearby, you’ll find incredible examples of rock art, rumoured to be the largest collection in the UK. If you’re a keen wild swimmer, head to Linhope Spout. It’s a mile or two hike to get there, which weeds out the unworthy, and the sweating hiker is rewarded with a 5ft wide plunge pool and an exceptionally pretty waterfall.

Anyone whose gone looking for waterfalls when glamping in Northumberland knows all about Hareshaw Linn. Your route through ancient woodland crosses six bridges before arriving at a spectacular nine-metre waterfall. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to its rare ferns and lichen. Cascading waters and trees as far as the eye can see, Dilston Waterfall is a beauty. Pack a picnic and make a day of it on one of the many circular walks in the area. Although it’s known locally as Devil’s Water, the waterfall steps are positively angelic.

Craster kippers, singin’ hinnies and pan haggerty; just some of the excellent delicacies to seek out when you’re glamping in Northumberland. The Fish Shack in Amble serves the best of the oceans in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Dive into their freshly steamed mussels or creamy New England style fish chowder whilst gazing out at the Northumberland coast. From their converted shipping container, Box in Swinhoe serves up fresh hot pizzas topped with locally sourced ingredients. The wood burner keeps things toasty inside but if the weather is on your side, they’ll make your pizza to go and you can enjoy it on the beach. Life doesn’t get much better.

If you will only eat your lobster dinner in areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and you are glamping in Northumberland, head to The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh. Views of the epic castle are only beaten by the vast white sand beaches and most delicious fresh seafood. After exploring the Northumberland national park, The Treehouse Restaurant in Alnwick is worthy of a special trip. Make sure to book ahead and you’ll be dining on marmalade brioche bread and butter pudding with white chocolate gelato before you know it.

Glamping in Northumberland

Thoughtful hampers and woodfired hot tubs are just some of the extra touches that make glamping in Northumberland with Canopy & Stars extra special. Find some of the best walking in the country, stargaze the Dark Sky and explore epic coastlines by day, and cosy up by the wood fire by night.

What glamping means to us

From lofty treehouses to remote cabins, luxurious shepherds huts to converted train station waiting rooms, you’ll never be bored glamping in Northumberland. Connecting to nature is vital to mental health and its benefits are why we do what we do.

How we choose our places

Each and every Canopy & Stars space has been inspected and selected by one of our team. We know, when your glamping in Northumberland, you’re staying in beautiful, unique places with fantastic owners that care about you and the place they live.

About Canopy & Stars

We are always searching for a life more wild. It is Canopy & Stars’ mission to inspire people to connect with nature, spend time outdoors and work towards a positive impact on the environment. Our charitable trust donates to sustainable organisations working against the climate crisis.