Discover Northumberland’s Hidden Gems 

Northumberland is a stunning place. Not only does it boast miles upon miles of some of England’s only remaining untouched wilderness, but the region is also home to quaint towns, captivating coastlines and buildings rich in history.

Some of the region’s best spots, however, are hidden away from the general public. They’re the sort of areas nestled away from the busiest areas like Bamburgh Castle - offering a unique, secluded intimacy that helps accentuate the region’s beauty. 

Rumbling Kern, Howick

Rumbling Kern is a truly spectacular cove nestled away in the Northumberland coastline. Overlooked by a Grade II listed building known as the Bathing House, the cove is named after the sound made by waves crashing through rocks in high tide. The beach is a real hidden gem as Google Maps don’t even recognise the location. Instead, you need to head south of Craster to Howick before walking down to the beach. 

The cove is a secluded, peaceful; place with a beautiful beach in low tide. Our Bathing House painting captures the lonely cottage which overlooks the area. If you choose to visit Rumbling Kern, buy a limited edition print to commemorate your trip. 

Duddo Stone Circle

Northumberland has its very own Stonehenge, a collection of standing stones whose history stretch back to the neolithic period. The stones are located next to Duddo, a village situated near Berwick on the Scottish border. These five stones are perched on a hill, so there are incredible vistas across the wilderness all around. For those who love ancient history, you can’t really go wrong.  

Northumberland Coastal Path

Okay - so maybe this one isn’t quite a hidden gem. As Northumberland’s premier walking route, the coastal path is hardly hidden away. However, the route itself does serve as an opportunity to find vast moments of solace and seclusion - especially for those who walk the entire path. The popular stretches are those near towns and villages, but there are many places where the trail ambles through total isolation and empty beaches. 

The coastal path itself inspired this limited edition print: with the Bathing House at Howick in the distance and fields of wildflowers nearby. 

Linhope Spout

Northumberland has a few great waterfalls, but this one is particularly special thanks to the small pool it creates at its foot. Some adventure seekers in the summertime even head to the pool to take a daring leap down into it. 

For most of us, though, Linhope spout is just a great walk amidst wild moorlands. It’s around a mile and a half from Hartside Farm to reach the waterfall itself, with the going fairly moderate. A must-visit for families who enjoy wild swimming with the kids. 

Newton by the Sea

The silhouette of Dunstanburgh castle is instantly recognisable from Newton by the sea, a quiet village with an incredible beach. The beach itself sits across a stretch of sea that guards it against the peninsula where Dunstanburgh sits, giving the entire landscape an incredible backdrop. 

Less popular than many of the nearby villages, this is a quieter beach to sit and soak in the sunshine and historic views. 

Buy a limited edition print here.

Bolam Lake

A place is well known by locals but not as visited by tourists, Bolam Lake is a lovely lakeside and woodland area with lots of open grassy areas for picnics. The lakeside itself is great as it boasts an accessible path, so it can be enjoyed by all. Wildlife spotters will be pleased, as Bolam lake hosts many different species such as red squirrels, roe deer and the spotted woodpecker. 

Boulmer

With its authentic fishing history and quiet location, this is a true hidden gem for those looking for a quiet escape. This limited edition print captures the area’s heritage, with a family walking along the coastline overlooked by moored fishing boats. 

Northumberland has so much to offer to people from all walks of life. For me, in particular, the region is such an inspiration for the art featured here on the site. Shop our Northumberland art prints for a memento of your trips to England’s last true wilderness.