The Northumberland National Park was designated as a national park back in 1956 and has since become of the most impressive and most visited parks throughout the UK. The park itself stretches all the way from the Cheviot Hills to Hadrian’s wall and covers more than 400 square miles altogether. Visitors to this spot will bask in the wide open views, moorlands, forests, river valleys, and high hills that are scattered across the park and instantly realize why the area is called the land of far horizons.
Cyclists and hiking enthusiasts alike will find more than enough trails and paths to satisfy them and can head in any direction they like in order to see a whole host of impressive sites and sounds. Hadrian’s wall is worth a visit to the south even though not much of the wall still actually exists but the forts and museums in the area are equally as educational as they are impressive. You can also see for miles and walk along the volcanic rock that is known as the Whin Sill and enjoy views that you would be hard pressed to match anywhere else in the UK.
The valleys that surround the park form a wonderful landscape nowadays even though that was not always the case. The national park used to be a bed of chaos and violence and was home to a number of historic battles between clans from both sides of the border. You can still see remnants of the bloody clashes thanks to the ruins and spots such as the Bastles and Peel Towers that can be found in the area. In fact, the entire area of Northumberland is home to more castles than any other area within all of England, which is a historic sign of the conflict that took place here.
The most beautiful spot in Northumberland National Park is often thought to be Harthope Valley which is a location where the stream runs along the valley and where circular trails to higher ground offer unforgettable views.
Visitors to the area will also want to take a stroll towards Beamish Valley where you can find picnic spots, parking, and an information centre that can lead you in the right direction depending upon where you want to go and what you want to see.
The northern area of the park is known as High Hills Country and the main attraction here is the Cheviot Hills that offers a look out spot that is 2,674 feet high. The hills used to be flowing volcanoes but are now extinct as the area has made way for dazzling views and unforgettable memories.
If you happen to be in the Northumberland area or are planning a little getaway, then you will definitely want to take the time to get yourself acquainted with Northumberland National Park. There is so much to do and so much beauty to see that you simply must come take a look for yourself. The stories and pictures of the area simply do not do the beauty any justice at all.
