Northumberland is the most northerly of England's counties. It has often been referred to as, "England's last wilderness". A place of great natural beauty whose varied landscapes truly offer something for everyone.

Bilton Barns bed and breakfast and 8 Northumberland holiday cottages are situated in a very special area, all B&B and self-catering cottages are located either within the delightful seaside villages of Alnmouth and Seahouses, or set in stunning countryside near Alnwick and all are within sight of the beautiful Northumberland coast. Touring Northumberland, based from Bilton Barns, is a great way to see the area, including Bamburgh, Craster Seahouses, Rothbury, Alnmouth and Warkworth. There are so many things to do and see, local attractions include Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Gardens. Newcastle, The Roman Wall and Edinburgh all make excellent day trips too.

Alnmouth

Alnmouth is a quaint seaside village which can be seen from Bilton Barns. The River Aln enters the sea at Alnmouth, the estuary at low tide attracts many species of wading birds due to the abundance of food in the mudflats - a must of any birdwatcher! The village boasts a surprising number of good restaurants, cafes and public houses for snacks and dining out.

Northumberland is a county where a sense of history is evident at every turn. A myriad of castles - the most of any English county. Nearby the thriving market town of Alnwick has Alnwick Castle, "The Windsor of the North" - Recently used as the location of the box office smash Harry Potter movies. The earliest parts of the castle date back to 1096. The World famous Alnwick Garden which is open all year except Christmas Day is a great day out for all the family and has been voted best visitor attraction 2008.

Alnwick Castle

Other castles, all within easy traveling distance from any of the accommodation include, the well preserved Warkworth Castle, spectacular Bamburgh Castle, historic (& reputedly haunted!) Chillingham Castle, Lindisfarne castle on Holy Island, and last but by no means least the spectacular ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle perched on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea and the Farne Islands.

Dunstanburgh Castle Viewed from Craster

The Farne Islands are one of Britain's most important seabird sanctuaries, the islands are home to many different bird species, including puffins, shags and four species of tern. By now the birds are used to the tour boats and visitors who enjoy surprisingly close views. There is also the largest colony of Grey Seals which can be seen swimming and diving in the water around you or sunbathing on the rocks. Tour Boats can be boarded from the harbour at Seahouses for around £18 per person and trips last roughly 2 hours but remember to bring a camera as you'll see some amazing sites!

View to The Cheviots

Inland from the coast is hill country - The Cheviot Hills and the Northumberland National Park are a very popular attraction for lovers of the outdoors. For the walker, there are many well signed public footpaths dotted all over the hills offering spectacular views and solitude (The Cheviots are known as the, "Land of the Far Horizon"). If walking isn't energetic enough, mountain biking is also very popular through some of the most challenging countryside trails you will ever encounter. However you travel through the area, a picnic is thoroughly recommended next to any of the bubbling rivers and streams which wind their way through the Cheviot Hills.

Newcastle upon Tyne

For the lovers of bright lights and culture, try the bustling city of Newcastle upon Tyne - Approximately 40 minutes drive to the South and with fine restaurants, theatres, galleries and a nightlife which has been recognised as one of the liveliest in the world - well worth a visit if you remember to pack your dancing shoes!

If you'd like to chat through any aspect of the attractions nearby, please don't hesitate to contact us as the above are only a handful of the most popular - there's so much more to discover!

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