Morpeth

Medieval cobbles still line parts of this former county town, where Wednesday markets have traded for over 700 years. Morpeth feels properly lived-in rather than prettified - locals actually shop here rather than just posing for photos. The high street runs parallel to the River Wansbeck, and you'll spot proper independent shops alongside the usual suspects.

St John the Baptist stands proud in the town centre, its tower visible from the surrounding hills. But don't expect just ancient history. Longhirst Hall Golf Course offers a decent 18 holes if you fancy a round, while Pegswood Moor Country Park provides walking trails through former colliery land that's been reclaimed by nature. The old Dragline shovel from the former opencast mine makes for an unexpected industrial monument.

Northumberland's rolling countryside unfolds in every direction from here. Widdrington sits to the southeast with its own railway station - handy for car-free exploration. From Colliers Hill viewpoint, you can see across the Wansbeck Valley towards the Cheviot Hills on clear days.

Getting here is straightforward enough. The A1 runs nearby, and Newcastle is barely 20 minutes south. Widdrington station connects to the East Coast Main Line if you're coming by train.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense for exploring this corner of Northumberland. You're close enough to nip into town for supplies or a proper pub lunch, yet surrounded by countryside walking routes. Felmoor Country Park and Percy Wood Holiday Park both put you within easy striking distance of the coast too - the Northumberland shoreline is never more than a short drive away.