For a holiday that combines history, activity, and stunning scenery, look no further than the Northumberland coast. This guide shows you how to create the ultimate castle-hopping adventure using a perfect combination of train and bicycle, making for a fun, active, and eco-friendly trip.
Your journey starts on the East Coast Main Line, a scenic route that drops you at the charming village of Alnmouth. From here, make your way to your base: a comfortable two-bedroom cottage with sea views. This is the perfect launchpad for your historical explorations, conveniently located just a mile from the station.
The next step is to get your transport. Arrange for bicycles—either standard or e-bikes for an easier ride—to be delivered directly to your cottage. With your transport sorted, you are ready to explore the region’s famous castles. The best part? You can use dedicated, traffic-free cycleways for much of your journey.
Your first excursion could be along the Aln Valley cycleway, a beautiful route that takes you inland to the magnificent Alnwick Castle. Famous for its starring role in the Harry Potter films, it’s a fantastic day out for all ages. Lock up your bikes and explore the grand state rooms and historic grounds.
For your second adventure, join the famous Coast and Castles route and pedal south. This scenic path takes you along the stunning coastline to the dramatic ruins of Warkworth Castle, perched majestically above the River Coquet. This car-free approach allows you to fully appreciate the landscape and get a healthy dose of exercise while immersing yourself in the region’s rich history.