Things to Do in Northumberland: Top Attractions Within 30 Mins of Cresswell Towers

So, you’ve booked (or are highly considering booking) a spectacular stay at Cresswell Towers with us at Your Stylish Stay. First of all, excellent life choice. Give yourself a pat on the back.

Now, you’re probably staring at that confirmation email and thinking, “Right. What now? What does one actually do in Northumberland besides admire the dramatic sky from a very stylish window?”

Fear not, intrepid holidaymaker. We’ve done the hard research (i.e., we’ve left the house) to bring you the ultimate guide to the best local things to do, all within a 30-minute drive of your soon-to-be favourite holiday let. Because let's be honest, even the plushest sofa deserves a break from you.

1. For the History Buffs (Who Prefer Their History with a Cake Shop)

Druridge Bay Country Park (< 5 mins drive)

Think of this as your local extended garden. Fancy a bracing walk along a seven-mile stretch of golden sand without committing to a full-blown expedition? This is your spot. It’s perfect for blowing away the cobwebs, dog-walking, or pretending you’re in a period drama while gazing wistfully at the sea. There’s also a lovely visitor centre for when the “bracing” bit gets a bit too breezy and you need a hot chocolate.

Warkworth Castle (20 mins drive)

A proper, ruinous castle that isn’t just a pile of rocks you have to squint at. You can properly explore this mighty fortress, once home to the Percy family (the Harry and Meghan of the 14th century, but with more armour and better castles). Climb the keep, imagine the banquets, and then pop into the delightful village of Warkworth for a well-earned scone. History is hungry work.

2. For the Feathered Frenzy (Twitchers, not poultry enthusiasts)

The Northumberland Coast AONB (It’s all around you!)

The entire coastline is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is bureaucracy for “really, really pretty.” It’s also a haven for birdlife. From your base at Cresswell Towers, you’re perfectly placed to spot everything from curlews and oystercatchers on the shore to rare migrants in the dunes. Don’t forget your binoculars! Or, if you forget, just squint. It’s almost the same.

3. For the Family Fun Seekers (Or, How to Tire Out the Kids)

Amble Harbour Village (15 mins drive)

A charming harbour town where you can eat fish and chips straight from the paper while watching the boats bob about. Visit the quirky, independent shops, take a boat trip to Coquet Island to see the puffins (seasonal, obviously – they’re not just sitting there waiting for you all year), and say hello to the famous **Amble ‘Spirit of the Harbour’ statue**. The kids will love the ice cream. You’ll love the fresh seafood. Everyone wins.

Alnwick Garden (25 mins drive)

Yes, the world-famous treehouse and terrifyingly grand poison garden are in Alnwick Castle, but the Garden itself is a masterpiece of water, wood, and mind-bogglingly beautiful planting. The kids can get soaked in the water features (bring a change of clothes, you’ve been warned), and you can enjoy a serene stroll. It’s an absolute must-do, even if you just go for the epic cherry orchard.

4. For the ‘I Just Want to Relax’ Crew

Cresswell Beach (2 mins walk)

Why drive when you can stroll? The stunning, dune-backed beach is literally on your doorstep. Morning coffee with a sea view? Check. An evening glass of wine as the sun sets? Check. A paddle in the (admittedly bracing) North Sea? Double-check. This is your private escape without the hassle. Your Stylish Stay isn’t just a name, it’s a location.

Local Pubs & Farm Shops (Scattered generously around)

Within a short drive, you’ll find fantastic pubs serving local ales and hearty food, and farm shops selling the kind of produce that makes supermarket food taste sad. Stock up on local cheese, bread, and meat for a feast back at your luxurious accommodation. Because the best meals are often the ones you don’t have to put shoes on for.

Your Stylish Basecamp Awaits

The best part? After a day of exploring castles, getting sandy on beaches, or eating your body weight in local produce, you get to come back to Cresswell Towers.

You don’t return to a cramped hotel room. You come back to a Your Stylish Stay property – a spacious, beautifully furnished haven where you can kick off your shoes, relive the day’s adventures, and plan tomorrow’s from the comfort of a sumptuous sofa.

So, what are you waiting for? The history, the beaches, the ice cream, and the peace are all right here. All you need to do is book your stay and show up.

Ready to explore? Your Stylish Stay at Cresswell Towers is the perfect key to unlock Northumberland’s treasures.