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free days out northumberland

Welcome to the best guide for free days out in Northumberland

Staying at our Northumberland campsite needn’t cost a fortune. Let us guide you through the most scenic and fun free places to visit in Northumberland - all family friendly activities. Whether you're seeking serene walks, exhilarating cycle rides, or a splash on the beach, Northumberland has something for everyone. Nestled close to Herding Hill Farm, these attractions promise a Northumberland day out full of memories without burning a hole in your pocket.

See Why Northumberland Is Perfect for Free Days Out

Vast, uncrowded landscapes – Northumberland National Park and the Northumberland Coast AONB are free to enter
History on your doorstep – Explore Hadrian’s Wall paths, hillforts, and ancient sites from public rights of way
Dog-friendly exploring – Miles of trails and beaches welcome well-behaved dogs (lead restrictions may apply in lambing/bird nesting season)
Close to Hexham – Many of the best things to do near Hexham are a short drive from Herding Hill Farm
Free local events - check out What's On In Northumberland for local events and exhibitions

Tip: Some car parks, public toilets, or attractions may ask for a small fee or donation. Always check local signage.

Tip2: Take a flask and a picnic so that you are self sufficient for food and drink.

Top free things to do near Hexham

Allen Banks and Staward Gorge: a short drive from Herding Hill Farm, this is an excellent place to go walking, checking out the wildlife and enjoying your picnic. With its deep gorge, created by the river Allen, and the largest area of ancient semi-natural woodland in Northumberland, this 250-hectare (617-acre) site is a haven for wildlife, with more than 70 species of birds and a variety of mammals including red squirrels, roe deer, dormice, otters, and bats.
Tyne Green Riverside Country Park: Beside the beautiful River Tyne in Hexham, a fantastic play area, outdoor exercise area and numerous picnic spots. Lovely riverside stroll and the Abbey town of Hexham is just a short walk.
Sele Park: located in the Hexham Abbey grounds, these formal gardens feature a pretty, traditional bandstand, as well as woodland walks and the open grassy expanse of the Sele. Skate park and children’s play area.
Hexham Abbey: this former medieval abbey was built late in the 7th century. Glorious inside and out and still open for worship. The market place has lots of independent stores and there is a farmer's market each Saturday.

Free places to visit in Northumberland - Walks and Trails

Hadrian's Wall Path: Step back in time and follow the ancient Roman wall, a UNESCO heritage site. The trail offers breathtaking views, crags, and milecastles. Take in the panoramic views and marvel at the history that once divided the empire. Some of the best sections of Hadrian’s Wall are an easy walk from the campsite and free to enter including Cawfields Quarry, Sycamore Gap and Walltown Country Park.
Kielder Forest and Kielder Water: Meander through the largest man-made forest in England, around an hour's drive from Herding Hill Farm. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts. A 27-mile path encircles Kielder Water's shoreline and is suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, mobility scooters and wheelchair users. Sculpture spots. There are a number of visitor centres. Read our blog on Things to do in Kielder.
Haltwhistle via the Burn: Take a short walk into Haltwhistle from the site along the Burn. Experience abundant wildlife and discover something of the burn’s industrial heritage
Northumberlandia: a unique piece of public art set in a 46-acre community park with free public access and 4 miles of footpaths on and around the landform. The centrepiece of the park is Northumberlandia, a stunning human landform sculpture of a reclining lady, known as the Lady of the North.

See our website for more information on Northumberland Walks.

Free days out Northumberland - Playparks and Picnic Spots

Talkin Tarn Country Park: Glacial lake with a 1.3mile circular accessible path, as well as way-marked trails through the woods. Plenty of benches as well as a small play area along the waterfront
Derwent Waterside Park: Interactive outdoor adventure play park, cycling and walking routes around Derwent Reservoir, café serving hot and cold refreshments and snacks, plus a shop bursting with gifts and angling essentials.

Northumberland Day Out - Cycle Rides

South Tyne Trail: Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking for a leisurely family ride, the 23-mile South Tyne Trail between Haltwhistle and Slaggyford is one of the most picturesque free places to visit in Northumberland. Cross the spectacular Lambley Viaduct.
Kielder Forest and Kielder Water: The 27-mile shoreline path mentioned above is perfect for cycling as well as several mountain bike routes through Kielder Forest.

See our website for more information on Cycling Routes in Northumberland.

Free Indoor Northumberland Days Out

The Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre: Interactive audio-visual permanent exhibition which is great fun for all the family as well as visiting exhibits. Living roof with spectacular views of Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland landscape. Café, shop and children’s play area.
Barter Books: Located in Alnwick, the largest second-hand bookstore in Britain, set within an old Victorian railway station. It is more than just a book shop; it's an experience. Warm up by the open fires in winter or enjoy the model trains running above. Gift shop and café.

Free Days Out in Northumberland - Beaches

Northumberland beaches are some of the most beautiful, immaculate and quietest in the country, from the wide sweeping beach of Budle Bay, to the iconic and dramatic beach at Bamburgh. The Northumberland coast is anything from 1 to 2 hours away from Herding Hill Farm depending on which beach you wish to visit. Most beaches are dog friendly.

Whitley Bay: One of our favourite walks. There is a free car park half way between St Mary’s Lighthouse and Spanish City and a great walk along the beach in either direction.
Bamburgh Beach: A stunning, dog-friendly beach with views of Bamburgh Castle (admission charge). Whilst in Bamburgh visitors should visit the RNLI Grace Darling Museum which is free of charge. The museum tells the incredible story of Grace Darling, a fearless young woman who became a reluctant celebrity in 1838 when she and her father risked their lives to rescue stranded survivors from a shipwrecked in a fierce storm.
Embleton Bay: With soft sands and rolling dunes, it’s a great spot for families and dogs to have a fun-filled day. Lovely walks from Craster harbour and Dunstanburgh Castle.

Places to visit in Northumberland - Historic Monuments

Carlisle Cathedral: Discover 900 years of faith, rare treasures, medieval paintings, stained glass and history the heart of Carlisle. Good coffee shop.
Roman Forts: Members of English Heritage are able to visit the Roman forts and museums at Birdoswald, Housesteads, Chesters and Corbridge Roman Town free of charge. Many of the Northumberland Castles (Warkworth Castle and Hermitage, Dunstanburgh Castle, Carlisle Castle) also are free entrance with English Heritage membership.
National Trust sites: free to National Trust members located at Cragside, Gibside, Wallington, Lindisfarne Castle and Seaton Delaval Hall just outside Whitley Bay and the car park at Allen Banks will also be free.

Plan a Budget-Friendly Free Day out in Northumberland from Herding Hill Farm

Pick a theme: coast, wall walk, forest, or waterfall.
Pack smart to avoid unexpected costs: layers, waterproofs, picnic blankets, refillable water bottle, snacks. Why not get the children involved with making the picnic?
Check parking: many spots use pay-and-display—carry coins or a card. Try to avoid blocking narrow roads or passing places if you choose to park outside a designated car park
Membership cards: Don;t forget your card if you are a National Trust or English Heritage member. At the very least you might be able to grab some free car parking
Leave no trace: stick to paths, take litter home, respect livestock and wildlife.
Reward yourself: back at Herding Hill Farm, unwind in a hot tub lodge or toast marshmallows under starry skies.

Your journey for the perfect free days out in Northumberland starts at Herding Hill Farm. We have a variety of Northumberland accommodation. From the history-rich paths to the sandy beaches, Northumberland promises a plethora of experiences. Pack your picnic basket, leash up your dog, and create lasting memories for all the family.

FAQs: Free Days Out in Northumberland

What are the best free things to do near Hexham? Walk a section of Hadrian’s Wall, visit Hexham Abbey (donation-based), and stroll Tyne Green. For a short drive, try Hareshaw Linn waterfall or Corbridge village.

Are Northumberland beaches free? Yes—beaches like Bamburgh, Alnmouth and Embleton are free to access. Parking charges may apply at nearby car parks.

Can I see Hadrian’s Wall for free? Yes—public footpaths access many stretches of the Wall with spectacular viewpoints. Museums/managed sites along the Wall usually charge admission unless you are an English Heritage or National Trust member.

Is Kielder free to visit? Forest trails are free; most official car parks charge. Check on-site signage for current tariffs.

Is Northumberland dog-friendly? Very! Many trails and beaches welcome dogs. Keep dogs on leads around livestock and during nesting seasons where requested.