Brushstrokes of the Borderlands: Painting Northumberland’s Iconic Landscapes 

The landscape of Northumberland, the land where I grew up, is a special place which I often return to for creative inspiration. Earlier this summer I visited the historic St Cuthbert's Cave on a family walk and came away buzzing with ideas for some new landscape paintings.

St Cuthbert’s Cave

St Cuthbert's cave or more locally known as ‘Cuddy’s Cave’ is a historic and geographical landmark just outside Belford in North Northumberland. There is a circular walk of the National Trust site which was once said to be where the ancient monks of Lindisfarne laid St Cuthbert’s body to rest here in AD875. He was said to reputable saint who possessed the power of spiritual healing. 

The secluded cave site of sandstone rock supported by an isolated pillar is surrounded with mystery due to its spiritual past and the pathway up through the large overhanging trees adds drama to our approach!

Inspired by view of the Cheviot Hills

Our walk to the cave was equally as exciting as we took footsteps through grassy paths surrounded by wildflowers. Local fields were peppered white with swathes of Chamomile flowers and the flowers' scented aroma blowing in the breeze was a real delight on the senses!

Looking back on the rolling patchwork fields towards Wooler and the Cheviot Hills really captured my attention, with the footpath enclosed with towering hedgerows and vibrant pink wildflowers drawing my eye in the landscape beyond. I could see great potential in the view as a painting encompassing my love of colour and pattern. 

From the very top of the hill behind St Cuthbert’s Cave boasts 360 degrees views of the coast and countryside looking out to Lindisfarne to the East and Berwick upon Tweed to the North. 

Painting the Northumberland Landscape 

Back in my studio with my inspiration, photos and sketchbook pages I was excited to create these three colourful landscapes of Northumberland. Having only ever previously painted the Simonside Hills, landscape scenery is fairly new territory for me to paint! But I love to challenge myself with my art and I’m delighted with how they have turned out. 

Northumberland Wildflower Walk

Cheviots Beyond the Blooms

The Path from St Cuthbert’s Cave

Painting the landscapes of Northumberland has been an exciting new chapter in my artistic journey. St Cuthbert’s Cave and the breathtaking views of the Cheviot Hills provided the perfect blend of history, mystery, and natural beauty to inspire my recent works. The combination of vibrant wildflowers, sweeping vistas, and the ever-changing light over the hills fueled my creativity in ways I hadn't imagined before. 

As I continue to explore these iconic landscapes, I feel a deeper connection to the place where I grew up, and I am eager to capture more of Northumberland’s rugged charm in future pieces. Every brushstroke brings me closer to the heart of this remarkable area, and I hope these three new paintings resonate with others who share my love for the North Northumberland and the Borders.