The castle capital of Britain! The castles of Alnwick, Dunstanburgh, Warkworth, Bamburgh, Chillingham and Lindisfarne can be reached within 30 minutes or less. Just a short trip inland will take you to the World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall with its many Roman settlements and forts along the rugged border hills. Contact: Alnwick Tourist Information Centre on 01665 510665, National Trust on 01670 774691 www.nationaltrust.org.uk, English Heritage at www.english-heritage.org.uk

Northumberland’s protected environments support an abundance of rare plants and animals. The large number of nature reserves including the Farne Islands, Budle Bay, Beadnell Bay, Newton and Embleton Links, Druridge Bay (World Heritage Site), Kielder Water Park and North Northumberland National Park provide visitors with a unique opportunity to see many species seldom found elsewhere. Contact: Northumberland Wildlife Trust on 0191 284 6884

There are many great walks to suit all standards – miles of coastal track cover the magnificent beaches and headlands, whilst more challenging hikes can be found in the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland National Parks. Contact: Alnwick Tourist Information Centre on 01665 510665