Unforgettable days out, all within easy reach of Burnhopeside Hall
Burnhopeside Hall is perfectly placed for exploring some of the North East’s most iconic landscapes, heritage sites, and coastal towns. Whether you’re seeking peaceful walks, historic castles, family adventures or dramatic coastlines, you’ll find exceptional experiences within 20–90 minutes of the Hall.
Below is a curated selection of the very best attractions to help you plan your stay.
Cities and culture
TOP PICK
Durham
A must‑visit historic city, home to the iconic cathedral and castle set above the River Wear. Wander riverside paths, explore cobbled streets, and linger in independent cafés and shops.
15 minutes
Hexham & Corbridge
Charming market towns steeped in history. Visit Hexham Abbey, browse antique shops, and enjoy relaxed lunches or coffee stops — perfect for an unhurried day out.
45 minutes
Barnard Castle
A picturesque market town best known for The Bowes Museum, a world‑class gallery set in elegant parkland, alongside riverside walks and traditional tearooms.
50 minutes
Newcastle & Gateshead
Vibrant and cultural, offering theatres, galleries, nightlife, shopping and an ever‑growing food scene — all framed by the iconic River Tyne and its bridges.
30 minutes
Coast and Castles
TOP PICK
Alnwick Castle & The Alnwick Garden
Home of the Percy family and filming location for Harry Potter. The gardens feature the Grand Cascade, Poison Garden, and one of the world’s largest treehouses.
1 hour 10 minutes
Northumberland Coast
Miles of golden beaches, dramatic castles, and charming villages. Highlights include Bamburgh, Seahouses, Beadnell and Alnmouth.
1 hour 15-20 minutes
Holy Island (Lindisfarne)
A magical tidal island with a priory, castle, and wildlife rich coastline. Check tide times before travelling.
1 hour 30 minutes
Aukland Palace
Walk in the footsteps of the Prince Bishops of Durham, the original ‘Kings of the North’ and visit the Spanish gallery -The UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art and culture of the Spanish Golden Age.
25 minutes
Family Explorers
TOP PICK
Beamish Museum
The Living Museum of the North
Beamish is a living, breathing museum, where history is experienced. Walk through historic streets, meet costumed engagers, and watch traditional skills in action. History comes to life through costumed engagers, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Whether it’s chatting with a 1900s shopkeeper or watching a blacksmith at work, there’s always something new to discover.
15 minutes
Raby Castle & Deer Park
A magnificent medieval castle set within expansive parkland, where herds of red and fallow deer roam freely. Explore grand interiors, gardens and scenic walking routes.
35 minutes
Hadrian’s Wall
Step back into Roman Britain along this dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover panoramic ridge‑top walks and fascinating archaeology at:
• Housesteads Roman Fort
• Steel Rigg to Sycamore Gap (access may vary during restoration works)
• Vindalanda
Approx 1 hour
Local Activities
Perfect for families, with friendly farm animals, hands‑on activities, forest adventures and well‑stocked farm shops for local treats.
• Broom House farm
• Hall Hill farm
• Adventure Valley, Durham
Under 20 minutes
Get Active
TOP PICK
Teesdale
Home to some of England's most spectacular cascades, including the mighty High Force where the River Tees plunges 21 metres over ancient rock. The area also features the gentle, stepped cascades of Low Force and the secluded Summerhill Force.
55 minutes
Stunning Natural Landscapes
Explore the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, High Force waterfall, Weardale, Teesdale, and the North York Moors and Dales — ideal for walking, cycling and trail running.
Forest Trails & Dark Skies
Hamsterley Forest and Kielder Forest offer miles of scenic trails by day and some of the UK’s best dark skies by night.
Golfing Nearby
Enjoy championship‑level courses at:
• Slaley Hall
• Rockliffe Hall
