3 EPIC ROUTES & DAYS OUT IN NORTHUMBERLAND (WITH PROPER STOP OFFS)

If you've got a free day and a full tank, Northumberland is one of the best places in the UK to explore. From sweeping biker routes and hidden valleys to proper pub stops and places you'll want to stay longer than planned. This is the north at its best.

Three Routes and a Day Out Worth Your Time

The Coquet valley run

One of the most underrated rides in Northumberland. Long open stretches, quiet roads and scenery that just keeps getting better and better the deeper you go.

There are three main routes to get down into the valley, each as scenic as the other. From the east, you can come down through Alnwick or Wooler, then the lovely rolling roads down into the valley from Whittingham.

From the west, you can take the lovely route through Otterburn and the very picturesque village of Elsdon, down towards Sharperton then along to Alwinton.

From the south, the route brings you from Morpeth through Rothbury, towards Harbottle, and continues down towards Alwinton.

On any of these routes, the further you get in, the valley opens up into proper rolling countryside, with the impressive serene cheviot hills in the backdrop. Views that make you want to slow right down rather than rush through.

At the end of these roads, you'll find one of those places that feels like it's been waiting for you. And it's worth every mile.

Tucked away in the valley, Clennell Hall is the kind of stop-off that makes you stay longer than planned. Think old-fashioned hospitality from a team that clearly adore the place and what they do, to proper pub grub, such as steak in ale pie, fish and chips, generous well-priced Sunday lunches, a warm fire on colder days, and a bar that actually feels alive.

Whether you've come in for a quick pint, a full meal, or you decide to stay the night in the hotel or camping field, or parking up your camper for the evening, it's the perfect way to finish a day hiking or ride in the hills.

There's always something going on here too- from live music and events to busy weekends where the place just has a real family buzz about it.

Clennell hall has rooms at attractive b&b prices, bunk rooms and as mentioned, extensive space for campers and motorhomes.