15 Unforgettable Things To Do Within 50 Miles of Otterburn, Northumberland
So, you’ve booked your stay in the stunning Redesdale valley and you’re ready to explore. Northumberland is a treasure trove of history, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, all waiting on your doorstep.
We’ve put together our top recommendations for unforgettable experiences, all within a 50-mile radius of Otterburn. And the best part? After a day of exploring, you get to return to your perfect, peaceful base.
1. Stand in Awe of Hadrian's Wall
No trip to Northumberland is complete without visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers along the most dramatic stretches of the wall, like at Housesteads Roman Fort, where the history is palpable and the views are endless.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 25 miles
2. Marvel at England's Finest View
Head to Crag Lough and Steel Rigg for what is often voted England’s finest view. The walk along the whin sill crags with the lake below is an iconic Northumberland experience and a photographer’s dream.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 28 miles
3. Explore the "Prestige" of England's Last Castle
Alnwick Castle is a must-see. It’s not just a stunning medieval fortress; it’s the filming location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films! Explore the state rooms, try broomstick training in the courtyard, and lose yourself in the adjacent Alnwick Garden.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 30 miles
4. Walk Through Time at a Medieval Abbey
The hauntingly beautiful ruins of Jedburgh Abbey stand as a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture. Just over the border in the Scottish Borders, it’s a fascinating and picturesque slice of history.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 25 miles
5. Discover "The Secret Kingdom"
Venture to Kielder Water & Forest Park, Europe’s largest man-made lake and England’s largest forest. It’s an adventure playground for walking, cycling (with miles of purpose-built trails), stargazing, and wildlife spotting.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 22 miles
6. Gaze at the Stars in a Dark Sky Park
Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, centred on Kielder, offers some of the best stargazing in the UK. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. Book a session at the Kielder Observatory for an unforgettable celestial tour.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 22 miles
7. Step Back 7,000 Years at a Stone Age Tomb
Visit Lordenshaws Hillfort, where you can not only see an Iron Age hillfort but also discover magnificent cup and ring marks carved into the rock by our prehistoric ancestors. It’s history you can literally touch.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 30 miles
8. Feel the Spray of England's Highest Waterfall
A beautiful walk through ancient woodland in Northumberland National Park leads you to the spectacular Hareshaw Linn, a 30-foot waterfall. Keep an eye out for rare mosses and ferns along the way.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 18 miles
9. Spot Wild Ospreys
From April to July, head to Kielder Water or Threestoneburn Wood (near Ilderton) to hopefully catch a glimpse of these magnificent fish eagles, successfully reintroduced to the area after centuries of absence.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 15-25 miles
10. Get Lost in a Grand Stately Home
Discover Wallington Hall, a stunning National Trust property with beautiful gardens, sprawling woodland walks, and incredible interiors, including the famous central hall with its Pre-Raphaelite paintings.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 20 miles
11. Follow the Footsteps of Reivers and Romans
Drive the epic B6318 Military Road, which runs parallel to Hadrian's Wall. This road itself is a journey through history, offering incredible vantage points and access to countless Roman sites.
Distance from Otterburn: The route begins approx. 25 miles away.
12. Explore a Mystical Holy Island
Time your trip right to cross the causeway to Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle. The sense of adventure and the island’ unique spiritual history make this a truly special day out.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 50 miles (check tide times!)
13. Conquer a Coastal Castle
Bamburgh Castle is utterly iconic. Perched dramatically on a volcanic crag overlooking the beach, it’s one of the most impressive castles in Britain. The views from the ramparts are worth the visit alone.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 45 miles
14. Wander Through a Poison Garden
Back at Alnwick Garden, don’t miss the intriguing and deadly Poison Garden, home to a collection of narcotic and poisonous plants, all kept behind black iron gates.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 30 miles
15. Seek Out a Hidden Hermitage
Carved into the rock beside the River Coquet, Warkworth Hermitage is a fascinating and secluded medieval chapel accessible only by boat (operated by the English Heritage custodian). It’s a unique and peaceful spot.
Distance from Otterburn: Approx. 35 miles
Your Adventure Basecamp Awaits
Phew! After all that exploring, you’ll need a comfortable place to put your feet up and plan the next day’s adventure.
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Otterburn? [Your Accommodation Name] offers the ideal base to explore everything Northumberland has to offer. Our comfortable, well-equipped properties are your home away from home after a long day of discovery.
Why not browse our availability and book your Northumberland adventure today?
What’s on your must-do list? Let us know in the comments on our website!