Special places to stay in Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park is one of the most sparsely populated areas in the UK. Its 1,049 km (405 square miles) are filled instead with much wildlife, the Cheviot Hills, Kielder Water and Forest Park, and criss-crossed with walking, cycling and horse-riding trails. Blessed with England’s most pristine skies, it is an International Dark Sky Park with acclaimed Gold Tier status. Clear nights offer a kaleidoscopic view of the stars and those who wish to gaze further into the universe can do so at the Kielder Observatory. To delve deeper, stay at any of these special places positioned inside the park.
Chaffinch Cottage, Kindlandlee
Drive three miles from the main road through spectacular scenery to arrive at (almost) the top of the world and this remote off-grid cottage (electricity is provided by solar panels and wind turbines) 1400 feet above sea level in Northumberland National Park. Find a welcome hamper from Tully’s of Rothbury and a bottle of champagne, an endless supply of logs for the wood-burner, books, DVDs and board games, and incredible night skies – this is a Dark Sky area.
Wonderful walks through the Coquet valley and up into the Coquetdale hills start from the door; bring binoculars if you like bird-watching, or bikes for challenging climbs. Return to spill into the enclosed garden and barbecue your supper as the sun sets. On clear nights you’ll marvel at the stars.
“All I need to say is that we rebooked the same day we returned home! It’s the most wonderful place if you want to recharge. The cottage is absolutely delightful.” – Guest, Sue
Greystead Old Church, Hexham
Come to stay in a converted 19th-century church deep in the Northumberland National Park with beautiful Pre-Raphaelite Victorian stained-glass windows and a restored tower. Step into a large, flagged hall, down a corridor and into the sitting room with a glowing wood burner. Comfortable bedrooms with antique furniture and bathrooms are on this floor too. Up the open-plan oak staircase is the mezzanine where a Neptune kitchen has a massive central island for sharing the cooking, a big wooden table made for convivial meals and a stunning view over the churchyard.
Books, games and a big TV keep you company on wet days and you’re in the North Tyne Valley with the riverbank just yards away for paddling, salmon fishing, picnics. Return from nearby Hexham with goodies to barbecue in your own fenced garden.
“An imaginative conversion that combines relaxed modern living with a rich and impressive historic space. Good location for outdoorsy activities.” – Inspector, Helen
Stay at Greystead Old Church >
The Elm, Morpeth
In a Dark Sky area 1400 feet above the Coquet valley floor and surrounded by acres of grasslands, heather-covered moors and forests, this delightful eco-friendly, off-grid bolthole in the Northumberland National Park is just the ticket for walkers, nature lovers and peace seekers. Inside you’ll find an unfussy, calming vibe with a spacious living room, view-filled bedroom — wake under the gaze of the Cheviot Hills — and a kitchen with plenty of bells and whistles.
On cooler days you can light the wood burner and snuggle down to watch a film while delving into the welcome hamper – chocolate, biscuits, fizz and more. Sit outside on your own patio listening to the sound of birds, sheep and the wind in the trees. Better still, you can slide into your covered outdoor Shanti bath and soak in some Penhaligon’s bubbles.
“A very special place to stay in a very special and beautiful area – my visit was all too short!” – Inspector, Mary
The Pheasant Inn, Hexham
A fire-warmed old-world inn full of colour in the magnificent Northumberland National Park. Lost in beautiful countryside, this is the kind of place you hope to chance upon. The Kershaws run it with great passion and an instinctive understanding of its traditions: brass beer taps glow, 100-year old photos of the local community hang on stone walls, the clock above the fire keeps perfect time. Robin’s lovely food (seasonal fruit and vegetables come from the garden) hits the spot perfectly and Sunday lunch is a treat.
Bedrooms in the old hay barn are light and airy, cute and cosy. You’re in the Northumberland National Park – no traffic jams, not too much hurry. You can sail on the lake, cycle round it or take to the hills and walk. You can also gaze into the universe at the Kielder Observatory (best in winter).
“The best inn stay we have ever had. Wonderfully warm and welcoming with delicious food and comfy beds. No-one could ask for more.” – Guest, Julia
Bottle Cottage, Morpeth
Walkers and cyclists will enjoy being on the edge of the Northumberland National Park in this village cottage with views and country walks for all levels from your door. Stroll to The Drake Stone, a mythical meeting place for Druids with views of the medieval ruins of Harbottle Castle. Follow the ancient Drovers Road through the Cheviot Hills that crosses the border to Scotland, or visit the Lady’s Well in Holystone where St Ninian is said to have baptised early Christians.
Back at the cottage there’s a wood-burner to keep you cosy, a big TV with the full Sky package and books and games for entertainment. The country kitchen’s easy to work in and you can take your nightcap out to the pavement bench to gaze at starry skies. For meals out, The Star Inn, just over the lane, serves good comfort food and there’s also a well stocked shop for essentials, fresh fruit and veg, and newspapers.
“A lovely cosy cottage set in a beautiful location. The village has a recently renovated and very friendly pub serving a great selection of pizzas and pasta dishes.” – Guest, Geoff
