Welcome to the part of England that stretches from Alnwick to Berwick upon Tweed. This is Northumberland — the northernmost county. Steeped in history, this quiet and peaceful region offers great scenery, magnificent castles, beautiful beaches and a warm welcome to visitors. If you would like to visit Northumberland, check out the ads on our pages to help you with your vacation plans — including hotels and cottages and other holiday accommodation and packages.

Sounds of the countryside

Some of the sounds you can enjoy this coming spring in north Northumberland. Featuring three exclusive stereo audio recordings.

Each lasts 60-90 seconds. They were recorded on Wednesday 6 May 2009 between the hours of 6am and 8am. The photographs were taken at each location at the same time.

First is the sound of a burn, second a point on a public footpath between there and Juniper Hill (listen out for the owl at the beginning). Finally a small oak wood on the Hill itself. If you would like to do this walk, see footpath number one.

Beautiful beaches in north Northumberland

Four of the best beaches in north Northumberland. Whether you're paddling and building sandcastles, surfing or looking for peace and quiet, you'll find something here.

Take a trip to the Farne Islands

Spring is the best time to visit. Boat trips leave from Seahouses harbour.

Puffins sitting on a cliff top, Staple Island. © Nigel Chadwick / BY-SA 2.0. The Farne Islands lie about two miles off the north-east coast and are one of the most famous sea bird sanctuaries in the British Isles. An incredible 182 different species of bird were recorded there in 1999. Guillemots, eider ducks and puffins (55,674 pairs in 2007) are just three that you may see. There is a large colony of grey seals too.

Spectacular Bamburgh Castle

The high ground to the north of Bamburgh gives a great view of Bamburgh castle, the village and Farne Islands. Google asked the public which UK landmarks should be added to its Street View service and Bamburgh castle was the winner. See our Street View sightseeing tour on this page.

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