Places to visit and days out!

 Top 7 places to visit:

1. 1. Bamburgh Castle and beach followed by fish and chips at Seahouses. From Seahouses you can also take a trip out to the Farne Islands to see seals and puffins. Also the home of heroine Grace Darling. Alternatively head to amble for delicious seafood at the Old Boat House. Druridge Bay and Low Hauxley are quiet unspoilt beaches great for a brisk dog walk, a spot of kite flying with the children or just some quality you time.
   2. Housestead’s fort, Vindolanda and Sycnomore gap, Hadrians wall. This section of the world heritage site Hadrian’s wall is only 20 mins from the cottages and in our opinion includes some of the most exciting spots.
   3. Cragside the first house with electric lights and home of Lord Armstrong. History, art, engineering, gardens and walks. I love this place there is something for everyone. A family favourite.
   4. Wallington Hall, National Trust, Cambo, Morpeth, Northumberland NE614AR. Much loved home to generations of the Trevelyan family. Lawns, glass houses, lakes, woodland, parkland and more just waiting to be explored. Kirkharle courtyard the birthplace of landscaping genius Lancelot “Capability” Brown is en route great for a coffee stop, lunch and a browse in the courtyard shops.
   5. Tynemouth. Literally The mouth of the river Tyne! With its wonderful long sands beach, dramatic priory  and castle dominating the headland. and their weekend market in the beautifully restored old station
   6. Kielder Water and Forest Park, The largest artificial lake in the UK. Great for great sailing, cycling, the observatory and bird of prey centre.
   7. Hareshaw Linn, Bellingham NE48 2DA Lovely uphill walk to see the waterfall dogs love it too!

Top 5 places to visit when exploring Newcastle…

Newcastle is our nearest city only 45 mins drive from Southlands. Renowned for its university, nightlife, beautiful quayside and friendly locals a trip to Newcastle always makes for a great day or night out.

1. The centre for life & discovery museum for all the family.
2. The Sage and Theatre Royal for exceptional concerts and performances.
3. A walk along the Quayside and Eye Bridge at night
4. The Botanist Dome for views across Newcastle and delicious cocktails – A climb to the top of Grey’s Grade 1 listed Monument statue (must be booked in advance. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01912778000)

Seasonal treats…

1. Summer Months: Kynren, Auckland Castle (DL14 7SF). An epic jaunt through English history depicted in an open air live action night show. It wowed more than 1000 visitors in its first year.  For more information please visit www.elevenarches.org or call 01388 311813.
2. Run up to Christmas: Kielder Winter Wonderland (www.keilderwinterwonderland.com). Corbridge and Hexham also have Christmas late night shopping and markets on the run up to Christmas. The Living North Christmas Fair is the perfect place for Christmas Presents.

Please visit our ‘Green fingers’ activity page for our top 7 gardens to visit in the area…