Location

North Farm boasts a location that few can beat. Northumberland is England’s most northerly outpost, but for a wild border area, offers not only exciting history and landscape, but all the charm of civilized country houses and towns.

Follow our private, well kept mowered track  down a gentle slope past a WWII Pill Box to the nearby beach. A half mile further along the coast path stands the sea-facing ruins of once mighty Dunstanburgh Castle. Started in 1313, it has been an impressive, craggy ruin since the Wars of the Roses in the 15th Century.

Just down the road from the farm, via another private grass track, the village of Embleton boasts inns and local heritage trails and a fine links golf course.

WALKERS

If you walk on holiday, the coast is a rich heritage trail in itself, linking castles, harbours and beaches that go on forever. The Northumberland National Park, half an hour away, features walking on well marked trails throughout the Cheviot Hills. No need to worry about congestion – you may meet a sheep, or a goat – the odd curlew might disturb your thoughts, but if you’re game for a walk, that’s not much to grouse about!

For those wanting a little more adventure there are over 170 geocaches within 8 miles of Embleton.

St Cuthbert's Way is the nationally famous route that St Cuthbert might have taken on his journey from Melrose to Lindisfarne. Well marked, and easily broken into sections, you might attempt any part of it as part of your stay. Walking in the area is well covered by www.shepherdswalks.co.uk. Advice, maps and equipment are all available, and written by a shepherd working in the Rothbury area.

ACTIVITIES

There is horse riding available locally at Shipley (Alnwick). Cycling in Northumberland is a must – quiet roads, and places to visit, or for a more energetic experience, the mountain biker can try out the hillside routes. And there is no need to bring a bike to try it – local rentals are available.

Local fishing of all kinds can be arranged, whether on river or sea, and those who wish to join the fish can enjoy diving from the harbour at Seahouses, or why not take a boat trip to the Farne Islands where a young Grace Darling proved herself highly capable of saving life at sea?