Explore Bamburgh Castle, Hadrian’s Wall, and Alnwick Garden. Hike in Northumberland National Park, visit Holy Island, spot puffins on the Farne Islands, and stargaze in Kielder Observatory.
Trimontium Museum
Market Square, Melrose, TD6 9PN
The Trimontium Museum in Melrose, Scottish Borders, offers an immersive exploration of Roman Scotland’s northern frontier. Named after the nearby Eildon Hills (“Trimontium” meaning “three hills”), the museum showcases artifacts from the significant Roman fort at Newstead, including cavalry helmets, coins, and pottery. Interactive exhibits, such as virtual reality experiences and hands-on activities, bring history to life for visitors of all ages. Guided walks to the fort site and educational programs further enrich the understanding of Roman and Iron Age life in the region.
https://www.trimontium.co.uk/ |
info@trimontium.co.uk |
01835 342788
Blyth Battery
South Beach, Blyth, Northumberland, NE24 3PQ
Blyth Battery is a historic coastal defence site on Blyth’s South Beach, Northumberland. Built in 1916 to protect the port and submarine base during World War I, it was later upgraded for World War II. Today, it operates as a volunteer-run museum featuring restored gun emplacements, observation posts, and exhibits like a WWI officers’ dugout and a Royal Observer Corps post. Visitors can explore military memorabilia and enjoy events such as the annual “Blyth Battery Goes to War” reenactment weekend.
Philip Haugh Estate
Selkirk, Selkirkshire, TD7 5LX
Philiphaugh Estate, located near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, is a historic estate with a rich heritage dating back to the 13th century. Once owned by the Murray family, it was the site of the 1645 Battle of Philiphaugh during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Today, visitors can explore the restored Victorian Walled Garden, the Salmon Viewing Centre with live underwater footage, and the Selkirk Distillery, which utilises estate-grown botanicals. The estate also offers scenic walks, a farm shop, and the Waterwheel Café, providing a blend of history, nature, and local produce.
https://www.philiphaughestate.com |
pr@philiphaugh.com |
01750 21766
Floors Castle
Floors Castle, Roxburghe Estates Office, Kelso
Floors Castle, situated near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, is Scotland’s largest inhabited castle and the family seat of the Dukes of Roxburghe. Commissioned in 1721 by the 1st Duke, John Ker, and designed by architect William Adam, the castle was later expanded in the 19th century by William Playfair, who added the iconic turrets and grand façade seen today. Visitors can explore opulent interiors, extensive art collections, and beautifully restored tapestries. The estate also features Victorian walled gardens, woodland walks, and riverside trails along the River Tweed, offering a rich experience of Scottish heritage and natural beauty.
Kielder Observatory
Black Fell, Kielder, Hexham, NE48 1EJ
A magical and unique visitor attraction…under the finest dark skies in England.
Kielder Observatory is one of the most remarkable places to visit in the whole of the UK. A public astronomical observatory which is second to none, under some of the darkest skies in the world where you’ll find “infinite inspiration” and wonders you could never have imagined!
Kielder hosts more than 700 events a year, and its popularity means events are regularly booked well in advance. Check the website for different events through the year and be sure to book in advance as tickets aren’t sold on the door.
https://kielderobservatory.org/ |
Admin@kielderobservatory.org/ |
0191 265 5510
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
Radcliffe Road, Bamburgh, Northumberland, NE69 7AB
The RNLI Grace Darling Museum in Bamburgh, Northumberland, honours Grace Darling, a Victorian-era heroine renowned for her courageous rescue of nine shipwreck survivors from the SS Forfarshire in 1838. The museum showcases personal artifacts, including the original coble boat used in the daring rescue, and offers exhibits detailing her life in the Longstone Lighthouse. Visitors can explore interactive displays and learn about the legacy of this remarkable young woman who became a national icon.
https://rnli.org/ |
askgracedarling@rnli.org.uk |
01668 214910
Bisley at Braidwood Shooting
Braidwood, Midlem, Selkirk, TD7 4QD
Bisley at Braidwood, located near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, is Scotland’s largest and most versatile shooting ground, set within 40 acres of scenic countryside. It offers clay pigeon shooting, air rifle, full-bore rifle, and virtual reality shooting, catering to all skill levels. Facilities include a 100m indoor rifle range with electronic targets, a 25m air rifle range, and a VR simulator. The site also features Oscar’s Café, a retail shop, and hosts events like stag and hen parties, corporate days, and family sessions
https://www.bisleyshooting.co.uk/ |
braidwood@bisleyshooting.co.uk |
01835 870280
Traquair House
Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW
Traquair House, nestled in the Scottish Borders near Innerleithen, is Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited house, dating back to 1107. Originally a royal hunting lodge, it has been home to the Stuart family since 1491. The estate boasts 19 historic rooms, including the bedchamber of Mary, Queen of Scots, and features the famous Bear Gates, closed since Bonnie Prince Charlie’s 1745 visit. Visitors can explore the house, a 300-year-old brewery, a maze, craft workshops, and enjoy refreshments at the Garden Café.
https://www.traquair.co.uk |
enquiries@traquair.co.uk |
01896 830323
Scottish Seabird Centre
The Harbour, North Berwick, EH39 4SS
The Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick is a five-star, award-winning marine conservation and education centre offering interactive exhibits and live wildlife cameras. Visitors can explore the Discovery Experience to observe seabirds like puffins and gannets on nearby islands, including the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets on Bass Rock. Seasonal boat trips provide close encounters with marine life, while the on-site café and gift shop enhance the visit. The centre also hosts educational events and outdoor activities year-round.
- Posted in:
- Northumberland
- Things to do
- Tags:
