Northumberland - Best Places to Live UK

Reasons to live in Northumberland UK

Natural Beauty: Northumberland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Northumberland National Park, Northumberland Coast, and Kielder Forest. The county offers breathtaking scenery, expansive beaches, rolling hills, and tranquil countryside, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, wildlife spotting, and stargazing.
Rich History and Heritage: Northumberland is steeped in history and boasts a rich heritage. It is home to iconic landmarks such as Hadrian’s Wall, Lindisfarne Castle, Bamburgh Castle, and Alnwick Castle. The county is dotted with ancient ruins, castles, and historic sites, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the region’s fascinating past.
Quality of Life: Northumberland offers a high quality of life, with a peaceful and slower pace compared to more urban areas. The county has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. It boasts low crime rates, excellent healthcare facilities, and good schools, making it an attractive place to raise a family or retire.
Dark Sky Reserve: Northumberland National Park and Kielder Forest Park are designated Dark Sky Reserves, meaning they offer exceptional opportunities for stargazing and experiencing the beauty of the night sky. Residents can enjoy clear, unpolluted views of stars, planets, and celestial events.
Outdoor Recreation: The county is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its natural beauty, Northumberland offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, horse riding, and water sports. The region’s varied terrain and proximity to the coast provide diverse options for adventure and exploration.
Cultural Events and Festivals: Northumberland hosts a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating local traditions, arts, and music. The Alnwick International Music Festival, Northumberland County Show, and the Northumberland Music Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant cultural scene in the county.
Tranquility and Space: Northumberland is one of the least densely populated areas in England, providing a sense of tranquility and space. The open landscapes and peaceful surroundings contribute to a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle.
Easy Access to Newcastle and Edinburgh: While offering a more rural lifestyle, Northumberland still provides easy access to larger cities. The county borders Newcastle upon Tyne, a vibrant city known for its culture, shopping, and nightlife. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is also within reach for day trips or weekend getaways.

Best places to live in Northumberland

Alnwick: This historic market town is known for its stunning Alnwick Castle and Gardens, as well as its charming streets lined with independent shops and eateries. It offers a rich heritage, excellent schools, and easy access to the Northumberland coast and countryside.
Berwick-upon-Tweed: Located on the border with Scotland, Berwick-upon-Tweed is a picturesque town with a fascinating history. It boasts well-preserved Elizabethan walls, beautiful riverside walks, and a thriving arts scene.
Hexham: Nestled in the Tyne Valley, Hexham is a vibrant market town with a stunning abbey, cobbled streets, and a bustling market. It offers a range of amenities, excellent schools, and access to Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland National Park.
Morpeth: Situated on the banks of the River Wansbeck, Morpeth is a charming town with a rich architectural heritage and beautiful parks. It offers a range of amenities, good schools, and easy access to the coast and countryside.
Bamburgh: Famous for its imposing castle overlooking a pristine sandy beach, Bamburgh is a small coastal village with breathtaking views and a strong sense of community. It is a popular destination for tourists and offers a tranquil coastal lifestyle.
Rothbury: Nestled in the heart of the Northumberland National Park, Rothbury is a picturesque village surrounded by stunning landscapes. It offers a peaceful and close-knit community, outdoor activities, and easy access to nature trails and forests.
Seahouses: This coastal village is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque harbour and proximity to the Farne Islands. Seahouses offers a range of amenities, beautiful coastal walks, and opportunities for water sports.
Wooler: Located at the foot of the Cheviot Hills, Wooler is a small town surrounded by beautiful countryside. It offers a tranquil setting, outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, and is known as the “Gateway to the Cheviots.”
Amble: Situated on the Northumberland coast, Amble is a bustling harbour town with a charming marina, a vibrant Sunday market, and a range of amenities. It offers a close-knit community and easy access to coastal walks.
Warkworth: This picturesque village is dominated by its medieval castle and offers a tranquil riverside setting. Warkworth boasts charming streets, riverside walks, and is located near beautiful sandy beaches.

Best schools in Northumberland (not official rankings)

King Edward VI School, Morpeth
Royal Grammar School, Newcastle upon Tyne (selective school that admits students from Northumberland)
Ponteland High School, Ponteland
Duchess’s Community High School, Alnwick
James Calvert Spence College, Amble
Berwick Academy, Berwick-upon-Tweed
The King’s School, Tynemouth (selective school that admits students from Northumberland)
The Blyth Academy, Blyth
St. Benet Biscop Catholic Academy, Bedlington
Cramlington Learning Village, Cramlington