North Northumberland
The Area
From our location map, you can see we are nestled in the hamlet of Preston near the village of Ellingham. The closest attractions are Preston Tower and the Pack Horse Inn, both walkable and enjoyable!
For those who are new to Northumberland, the county is stunning and there is tonnes to do! We are the gold winner of the British Travel Awards in 2018 for a reason. For those who are familiar with our fair county, we’re sure there are still places on the list you would like to visit even if you’ve been to Northumberland a hundred times. Below are some favorites and if you have any suggestions to add we’re all ears.
Walks around the area
There are ample walking routes across the county, some very close to the Joiner’s Shop and some a drive or a cycle away. If you visit the village of Ellingham we recommend picking up a local walking book from The Pack Horse Inn, it is made to raise money for St Maurice’s church in the village (stunning church). Some of our favourite walks are below, just ask us for more recommendations!
Windy Gyle
Although a fair distance to drive this is one of Kirsten’s favourite walks in the Northumbrian hills. It is worth the drive and there is a fair climb, but once at the top of Windy Gyle you have panoramic views, north into Scotland and south down the Penine Way. Truly beautiful!
Climb Cheviot
A little less of a drive from The Joiner’s Shop, and worth the journey. Cheviot is the highest hill in the Northumbrian range and it’s a canny hike to the top! Take a wee packed lunch for the day trip out and a flask of coffee.
Seahouses to Budle Bay
Start on St Aiden’s Beach and walk all the way past the iconic Bamburgh Castle to Budle Bay. Easier when the tide is out and there is plenty of beach to choose from. Easy walk along the coast and Budle Bay is a lovely, usually quiet spot to stop for some lunch and some rays (weather permitting).
Low Newton to Craster
The National Trust has marked out a slightly longer route here, but you can shorten it to only walk along the beach if you wish. Passing Dunstanburgh Castle, another iconic Northumbrian Castle but a ruin this time. Grab some Kippers from Crasters famous smoke house (https://www.kipper.co.uk) and a pint in Low Newton’s rightly famous pub, The Ship Inn (http://www.shipinnnewton.co.uk).
Cycling
The Joiner’s Shop is very conveniently situated on the national cycle route 1 making it the perfect place to get some rest on your journey that could stretch from Newcastle to Berwick. We have plenty of space to store bicycles and can provide breakfast and/or a packed lunch if you would like. Please arrange directly with Kirsten.
Northumberland is also becoming increasingly popular for mountain bikers, especially in the hills and Kielder National Park. Why not book a trip with friends? Get away from the hustle and bustle, chill at the bunkhouse by night and release your inner bikeoholic by day.
Things to Do Nearby
- Climb Preston Tower for spectacular panoramic views on our doorstep
- Go to Barter Books and soak up the history, architecture and welcoming atmosphere
- Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Gardens
- Dunstanburgh Castle
- Visit Holy Island and don’t miss Pilgrim’s coffee house while you’re there
- Take a boat to the Farne Islands to see Puffins, Dolphins, and Seals
- Go to a brewery tap day at Rigg and Furrow Brewery or Bear Claw Brewery. Both fantastic days out drinking VERY good beer in VERY good company.
Places to eat, drink ND Relax
- The Pack Horse Inn, Ellingham
www.packhorseinn-ellingham.co.uk - Carnaby’s cafe, Brownieside
www.carnabyscafe.co.uk - The Ship Inn, Low Newton
www.shipinnnewton.co.uk - The Stable Yard, Craster
www.thestableyardcraster.co.uk