Northumberland National Park is the northernmost National Park in England, and covers just over 400 square miles. Stretching impressively from the England–Scotland border in the north, to just south of one of England’s most revered historic landmarks, Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland National Park is a place of dramatic beauty that encompasses forests, rivers, lakes, heaths and coast. But to really get under the skin of this Great British landscape, you need to actually live in it for a few days, and truly embrace the wild. The best way to do this is in your very own rural self-catering cottage; a headquarters from which you can set off on long walks and cycles, before returning for a relaxing winter’s night in stunning natural surroundings.
Hadrian's Wall
You might have questions about the ease of finding such a holiday, but the internet ensures this is easier than ever. There are many websites dedicated sole to country breaks in cottages, and they will usually include a comprehensive search tool that enables you to tailor your accommodation specifically to your needs. So whether you’re looking for Wi-Fi to provide a stable internet connection, or a cottage that will allow you to bring five big dogs, you will no doubt find something to suit your needs. The self-catering element of a cottage holiday in Northumberland National Park also means you are free to eat at a time that suits you and whoever you may be travelling with, while also allowing you the freedom to eat where you want – whether that’s at the cottage using locally sourced food, or at a luxurious restaurant.
Now, you might be thinking: what’s so great about the Northumberland National Park? Well, aside from an abundance of greenery, gorgeous coastline and friendly locals, there’s plenty to see and do. Wherever you are staying in the park, you will never be too far from the north’s favourite city Newcastle, which is famed for its gorgeous architecture, great shopping and unrivalled nightlife. Alternatively, culture vultures can take a trip to the historic city of Durham while in Northumberland, and be wowed by its incredible cathedral, castle and museums.
If you are on holiday and trying to escape the city this winter, then fear not, it’s not just city hopping you can easily do in Northumberland National Park. The area hosts an unbelievable variety of nature walks and cycling routes which are great for active holidaymakers, while a visit to National Trust property Cragside House (and its gardens) is an absolutely splendid way to spend a chilly afternoon. Horse riding on a deserted Northumberland beach is exhilerating and would put the colour back in your cheeks.
You will also be glad to know Northumberland National Park is the UK’s least visited, meaning you truly will feel like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a while, without having to go the ends of the Earth. And of course, finally, no visit to Northumberland National Park would be complete without examining the incredible Hadrian’s Wall – a Roman defensive fortification that was erected nearly 2,000 years ago by a workforce of approximately 15,000. History doesn’t get much more tangible than this.
Christmas holidays in Northumberland
Now any honest Briton will tell you: Christmas is a stressful time of year. Sure, we get to exchange presents, go to parties and eat and drink to excess, but we also have to buy people presents, host friends and family, and pretend to be full of festive cheer, or else risk being labelled a Scrooge. And with all of this going on, it can sometimes be hard to keep a cool head – even with the inescapable cool weather outside! That’s why winter breaks are now more popular than ever: the people need sanctuary. After all, it doesn’t have to be summer to take a holiday, particularly if you’re feeling the stress, and it certainly doesn’t have to be sunny. In fact, arguably the most relaxing holiday you can take is a rural British cottage getaway in winter. Go extreme and really be nice to yourself this winter and book a week at a luxury holiday home in Northumberland. There are some divine places to stay that also offer optional spa treatments and serious pampering.
Good value winter getaways
The United Kingdom is also an absolutely stunning country in which to enjoy a winter break, although as British nationals, we often fail to give our country’s versatility the credit it deserves. Within two or three hours’ drive of most locations in the UK, you will be able to reach an abundance of different landscapes that include expansive beaches, rugged coastline, forestry, and even mountains. And one of the most beautiful parts of the country may actually not be one you would ever think holidaying to: Northumberland National Park.
One type of holiday accommodation that really fits into ruggedly charming areas such as Northumberland is a pine lodge. Cosy lodges, fitted out to make holidaymakers feel good are dotted about the county. Make sure that the one you rent has a log burner in the lounge and you will have found your snug winter retreat in the north of England. View good quality pine lodges in Northumberland.