Northumberland (Slow Travel) : including Newcastle, Hadrian's Wall & the Coast

Part of Bradt's award-winning Slow Travel series

Discover the unexpected riches of Northumberland, England's most tranquil county. Despite its accolades—darkest night skies in England, best beaches, and wonderfully crowd-free landscapes—most visitors never venture beyond the main attractions. This thoroughly updated third edition is your invitation to explore the hidden gems: walk for hours across moorland without meeting a soul, picnic on pristine sands, or gaze at stars in Europe's largest protected night sky area, home to England's first Dark Sky Park and annual Dark Sky Festival.

For history enthusiasts, Northumberland is unparalleled. Beyond the iconic Hadrian's Wall—Britain's most important Roman monument, now with greatly improved footpaths, transport and amenities—the county boasts more castles than anywhere else in England. Explore the famous fortifications of Alnwick (Hogwarts), Bamburgh (Indiana Jones), and Dunstanburgh, alongside lesser-known treasures like Aydon Castle, Iron Age hill forts, medieval tower houses, Bronze Age stone circles, and historic houses including Cragside, Belsay and Wallington Hall.

This guide encourages you to slow down and discover the green lanes, footpaths, rivers and cycle trails connecting the coast with the interior's heather-topped hills and villages. Dedicated chapters cover Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, the Heritage Coast and Newcastle, complemented by some 30 countryside walks, local insights and expert tips. Perfect for walkers, birdwatchers, cyclists, families and anyone passionate about Roman archaeology, industrial heritage and medieval history—equally at home as an armchair read or a practical companion.