Best dog-friendly places in Northumberland

We all know that Northumberland is great for long beach walks with your four-legged best friends, but what do you do when you want a change of scenery – or it’s raining?! Luckily, Northumberland also boasts loads of dog-friendly attractions that you can visit with your pup – from wandering around historic castles to family days out, there are so many things to do.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere grand to explore with your dog at your side or you just want to roam the great outdoors while your pup chases squirrels, we've sniffed out the best dog-friendly days out in Northumberland.

Looking for a cosy cottage to come back to? Take a look at our collection of dog-friendly cottages in Northumberland.

Skip to:

• Family attractions  
• Historical attractions
• National Trust attractions
• Quirky and unique attractions

Best 3 family attractions

Heatherslaw Light Railway, Cornhill-on-Tweed

Travel on this 15-inch gauge railway for 4 miles along the River Till where you can take in the countryside views and even spot some local wildlife on the riverbank. Take a break at Etal Station and walk into the village for tea and cake at the tearoom before the return journey. The glazed carriages mean this is a great activity for all weathers!

Paxton House, Berwick-upon-Tweed

Perhaps one of the most family-friendly attractions in Northumberland, this grand 18th-century house really will set tails wagging. Kids can follow the teddy bear trail in the house, build dens in the grounds or play on the adventure playground, while grown-ups can enjoy an afternoon tea in the Stables Tearoom, admire the art in the Hayloft Gallery or appreciate the Chippendale and Trotter furniture in the main house. Just watch out for the seasonal opening hours.

Art and architecture trails at Kielder Water & Forest Park

This huge park, set around the biggest manmade lake in Northern Europe, is a must-visit destination for those with energy to burn – whether they’ve got two legs or four! If you’re looking for a little cultural stimulation too, follow the art and architecture trails around the woodland – some are wonderful, some are weird, but all will provide a great talking point for kids and adults alike. Stick around after nightfall; the park has been awarded the Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status, so it’s the perfect location for an evening of stargazing. Maybe your pup can help you spot Sirius, the dog star!

Best 3 historical attractions

Corbridge Roman Town

At this historic site, you can walk in the footsteps of the Romans – follow what once was a busy high street that runs through the town. Then head into the museum to see Roman artefacts including armour, jewellery and tools.

Warkworth Castle

Explore this impressive 13th-century castle and visit the Duke’s Rooms for a taste of its former splendour when it was owned by the Percys, who were among the greatest landowners in northern England. If you’ve got kids in tow, they’ll love the activity sheets.

Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens

Discover Grecian architecture, a medieval castle and a delightful Victorian tearoom at this historical gem near Morpeth. Take in the incredible views from the castle tower or take a tour of the gardens. Didn’t pack enough holiday reading material? Find something good to read in the second-hand bookshop. 

Best 3 National Trust sites

Dunstanburgh Castle

This imposing castle was originally built in the 14th century and was once a Lancastrian stronghold during the War of the Roses. It fell into disrepair in the Middle Ages and now stands ruined atop a coastal cliff in the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Cragside

Step inside this unique Victorian house to discover gadgets created by its former owner, the inventor Lord Armstrong. If you’ve got kids with you, they can explore the labyrinth of paths cut into the rhododendron forest – a pretty magical day out!

Gibside

Visit this 18th-century landscape which was designed to deliver the wow factor. It’s particularly lovely in autumn as you can explore the gardens and woodland when they’re ablaze with seasonal colours. Kids will love the play area and if the weather’s good, pack a picnic and enjoy the Derwent Valley views.

Best 3 quirky or unique activities you can do with your dog

Old Gaol, Hexham

Beloved family pets are welcome to explore this museum in Hexham, on the site of the earliest purpose-built prison in England. You can put one of your family members in the stocks, explore the prison house and learn about the Border Reivers: notorious Northumberland families.

Lindisfarne

There are not many other places in the UK, let alone the world, where you can walk out to an island – which is precisely why Lindisfarne has made our list. The Holy Island (as it’s sometimes known) is accessed via a causeway that’s only exposed at low tide. Most people choose to drive across and, once on the island, you can explore the castle, the priory and the walking trails that bring tens of thousands of visitors a year.

Duddo Five Stones

This intriguing stone circle is around 4 miles from the Scottish border and less than a mile from the village of Duddo. With glorious panoramic views, it’s possible to spot the Cheviot Hills to the south and the Lammermuir Hills to the north. Around 4,000 years old, these sandstone guardians of the landscape are well worth visiting. 

Places to stay with your dog in Northumberland

Have you found some inspiration for your next trip away with your furry friend? Take a look at our guide to dog-friendly Northumberland for what else you can do with your canine companion when on holiday in the area. 

Perhaps you’re thinking of travelling elsewhere in the UK? Check out our ultimate guide to days out with your dog in the UK.

If you've decided Northumberland is the place for you, take a look at our collection of dog-friendly cottages to find the perfect place to stay for you and your pup.