By Chris Littley
While we’ve all been given a few more freedoms by the government, it’s still not permitted to have overnight stays in our motorhomes. But there’s nothing wrong with contemplating all the incredible trips we will have in the future and today is the turn of Northumberland.
This northerly county, which butts up to Scotland is known for its castles and coastline. Even if we’re all still wanting to carry out social distancing, there’s plenty of sandy beaches in this part of the world to accommodate a few holidaymakers once things calm down.
Take Bamburgh Beach for example, with its wide-stretching sweep of sand and dramatic castle at one end. Here you can enjoy family walks, swim in the sea and even take surf lessons, with consistent waves throughout the year. The Norman castle itself is well worth a visit and the town features quaint pubs, cafes and shops, as well as the fascinating RNLI Grace Darling Museum.
Set off from the pretty village of Seahouses on a boat trip to the Farne Islands. This group of 20 outcrops is a haven for bird watching, with 23 different species making their home here. Time your visit for between April and July to see hundreds of puffins, as this is when they come ashore to breed.
The market town of Alnwick may be best known for its iconic castle, which was used in the filming of Harry Potter, but it has many more gems to discover. Pop into the White Swan to see the original first class lounge from the RMS Olympic, sister ship to the Titanic. It was removed from the vessel and installed in the hotel, so you can step back in time and experience the oak wood paneling, stained glass windows, mirrors and ceiling just as it was.
If walking’s your thing then spend your caravan holiday in Northumberland tackling the 62.5-mile pilgrim route known as St Cuthbert’s Way. It will take you all the way from Melrose to the holy island of Lindisfarne, with its iconic castle, historic priory and welcoming village. You’ll walk through some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery along the way.
Where will you be heading to in your caravan once the current restrictions are relaxed? We’d love to know.
