Holiday and country cottages in Northumberland

With its vast landscapes, mighty castles and dramatic coastline, Northumberland is an explorer’s playground. Steeped in history, it’s an inspiring place to stay at any time of year. You can conquer the countryside around Hexham and follow Hadrian’s Wall, or laze on the golden dunes of Embleton Bay in Alnwick. Discover the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle or take a boat trip to the Farne Islands and gaze upon rare seabirds and seals.

But first, find your ideal base. We have plenty of self-catering holiday cottages in Northumberland that are within walking distance to open countryside or stunning coastline.

The area surrounding Lookout Cottage, Northumberland

Lookout Cottage, Alnwick

Perched above Embleton Bay in Alnwick, this Northumbria holiday cottage was once home to 19th-century coastguards on the lookout for smugglers. Today, part of the building is still used as a coastguard service. Simple and snug, the cottage has charming original features such as the coastguards' bunkers. From here you can walk to the long, sandy beach below and across to nearby Dunstanburgh Castle. Sleeps 4.

The sitting room at Rockside Cottage, Northumberland

Rockside Cottage, Alnwick

Another Northumberland holiday gem is this former fisherman's cottage. It sits opposite a pub and enjoys a light and airy feel, thanks to its seafront position at Embleton Bay. From the cottage you can explore the beach, visit local Northumbrian castles such as Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, or you can venture to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Sleeps 4.

The exterior of Risemoor, Northumberland

Risemoor, Alnwick

A three-bedroom stone cottage with an inviting coastal theme, Risemoor is a minute's walk from the wide sandy beach at Embleton. The cottage is also close to Newton Pool Nature Reserve - perfect for nature lovers or those who simply enjoy waking up to birdsong. You may even be lucky enough to spot an otter. Head to nearby Dunstanburgh Castle and walk south to the fishing village of Craster. Sleeps 6.

Peel Cottage, a single storey holiday cottage, part-way up a hill at the edge of Northumberland National Park, Northumberland

Peel Cottage, Hexham

Peel Cottage is a cosy, one-bedroom self-catering holiday cottage in Northumberland. It's located in Hexham, just a stone's throw from Hadrian's Wall. There's plenty to explore here, with the fairy-tale woodland of Allen Banks and Staward Gorge just a short drive away. You can also take advantage of the North East's dark skies and enjoy an evening of stargazing. Sleeps 2.

The exterior of Springwell Cottage, nr Hexham, Northumberland

Springwell Cottage, Hexham

This Northumbria holiday cottage sits in rolling countryside. Inside, there's plenty of space for large families or groups. From here, you can explore a wealth of Roman archaeology including Hadrian's Wall, Housesteads, and Vindolanda. The Sill National Discovery Centre nearby promises interesting exhibitions and learning experiences too. Sleeps 6.

The exterior of Housesteads, Northumberland

Housesteads, Hexham

A short stroll from the ruins of Housesteads Fort, this self-catering holiday cottage in Hexham was once the home of the custodians of Hadrian's Wall. Today it provides a cosy base packed with original Victorian features and the perfect location to explore the wilds of Northumberaland. Nearby is Allen Banks and Staward Gorge for endless walking trails. Sleeps 5.

The exterior of St Oswald's Cottage, Northumberland

St Oswold's Cottage, Berwick-upon-tweed

For a real adventure in the North East, why not stay on Holy Island? This three-bedroom Northumbria holiday cottage was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens. The elegant interior features dark wood furniture, a period fireplace and a roll-top bath. Overlooking the harbour and the castle from your garden, you'll find open fields and coastal wildlife on your doorstep. Sleeps 5 people and 2 dogs.

Glen House, on Holy Island’s main street, Northumberland

Glen House, Berwick-upon-tweed

This one-bedroom stone cottage is a simple, self-catering hideaway on Holy Island's main street. It's ideally located for seal watching with the harbour, coast and Lindisfarne Castle a short walk away. Cut off twice daily by tides, this island on the Northumberland coast is the perfect place to stay for wildlife lovers and is home to rare plants, seabirds and dolphins. Sleeps 2.