Book a cosy family cottage for an adventure in Northumberland

Dreaming of a cosy holiday cottage? We can personally recommend the lovely stone-built, two-bedroom Stable Cottage on the Grade II listed Glanton Pyke Estate in Northumberland. Recently renovated by award-winning Johnstone Park Interiors, this dog friendly property also offers easy access to one of England’s most historic northern counties. And with its rolling hills, rugged coast and immense Dark Skies, Northumberland makes a perfect destination for a family holiday with outdoorsy older kids.

Living room and kitchen, the Stable Cottage, Glanton Pyke Estate, Northumberland

Glanton Pyke holiday cottage makes a welcome family retreat

A haven awaits you upon arrival at Glanton Pyke’s slate-roofed Stable Cottage. With its delightful open-plan interior and cosy wood burner, as well as plenty of blankets, it’s ideal for snuggling up on crisp evenings. The holiday cottage has its own entrance and opens onto a private, beautifully curated country garden. So, you can wrap up warm and enjoy an early evening around the firepit, roasting marshmallows or sipping hot chocolate. And up above you, the vast, clear skies of Northumberland, make for incredible stargazing.

Then, during the day, spend time exploring the estate’s 22-acre grounds. They offer spellbinding views over Whittingham Vale and Thurnton Woods and Bridgerton-keen teens will love the beautifully manicured topiary gardens and beech hedge maze.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, star of two Harry Potter films

Amble through Alnwick and explore legendary Alnwick Castle

Glanton Pyke holiday cottage is only a short drive from the cobbled streets of Alnwick (pronounced An-nick). If the name sounds familiar, it’s probably because this pretty market town is near neighbour to Alnwick Castle.  This is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK, owned by the Percy family and great fun to explore. Harry Potter fans will particularly like the idea of it featuring in the first films.

When the weather is fine you’ll undoubtedly be tempted to wander round ambitiously designed Alnwick Garden. This magical mix of spaces, themes, quirkiness and play is a delight for all ages. Enjoy a scenic walk through the Cherry Orchard. Don’t miss the mysteries waiting to be discovered in the Bamboo Labyrinth. And venture into the poison garden, under the watchful eye of park guides, of course.

Alnmouth Beach, Northumberland Coast

Discover beautiful beaches close to your holiday cottage

No cottage holiday in Northumberland is complete until you’ve explored the county’s picture-postcard beaches. Alnmouth is a fine example, with its wide expanse of golden sand and abundance of coastal wildlife. It’s just a short walk from charming Alnmouth town, which is home to a golf course that’s said to be the fourth oldest in England. And don’t miss Scott’s Deli for Alnmouth’s best coffee and cake.

Lindisfarne Castle, seen from across the causeway at high tide

Cross the causeway to Lindisfarne for another Northumberland castle

We also recommend a family trip across to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne – just remember to plan your causeway crossing in time with the tides for safety. Here you can while away hours walking the grounds of Lindisfarne castle and priory. And if you’re still in the mood for coastal fun, Embleton Bay is worth a visit upon your return to the mainland. Call into Embers for a slice of woodfired pizza, a perfect end to the day for hungry teens.

Hadrian’s Wall bringing the drama to hikes in Northumberland National Park

Have a mighty adventure in Northumberland National Park

A gateway to rural adventures, your Glanton Pyke holiday cottage also happens to be a short drive, or cycle, from Northumberland National Park.

Covering more than 1,050 square km of astonishingly varied scenery, this rugged park is the ideal place to escape. We highly recommend strapping on your boots for a stroll along Hadrian’s Wall. And if you still feel like walking, the trail of Steel Rigg and Crag Lough are also good fun to hike with older kids.

From hills and woodlands to waterfalls and moorlands, there are so many magnificent sights to be seen in Northumberland National Park. Apart from Hadrian’s Wall, families can explore the Breamish Valley trails as well as the Cheviot Hills, Coquetdale and Harbottle. The terrain can be a little challenging, but it’s very rewarding to walk and a thrill for mountain biking teens.

After another action-packed day, you definitely deserve some local fish and chips. Try Carlo’s in Alnwick, this award-winning fish and chop shop is a favourite with the locals, so you may have to queue, but it’s worth the wait!