Being on the edge of the Northumberland National Park and only 30 minutes’ drive from the Heritage Coast, the Queens Head is an ideal base from which to explore the natural beauty of North Northumberland and beyond.
Outdoor pursuits in the surrounding areas include fishing, golfing, shooting, walking, climbing and cycling. The Coquet is also a popular destination for its salmon and trout fishing!
Britain's original smart home. Illuminated by hydroelectricity and powered by hydraulics, this pioneering home was filled with Victorian gadgets for efficient modern living.
On your visit take a stroll through the winding path in the Pinetum. This collection of non-native coniferous trees, planted especially for their scale and size, is home to some of the tallest of their kind in the UK. You can enjoy a burn-side walk and hear the peaceful sound of the water burbling and birds tweeting in nearby trees before climbing the stone steps through the Rock Garden. Filled with rhododendron, this impressive garden flowers every June, framing the House in a sea of colour. Experience the change in season at the Formal Garden, a three-tiered masterpiece complete with loggia and quatrefoil pool on the Italian Terrace, an Orchard House, Fernery and gothic-revival Clock Tower, looking out of the coquet valley below.
Discover Brinkburn Priory, tucked away amongst picturesque woodland by the River Coquet. The 12th-century church is one of the best examples of early Gothic architecture in Northumberland. Stepping inside will transport you back in time. See the striking stained glass windows and beautiful organ, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Northumberland Zoo is a family-run, not-for-profit zoo based in the heart of the countryside. From tiny Harvest Mice to fluffy big Snow Leopards, there are over 100 different species of Mammals, Birds, Reptiles and Invertebrates to see. Every day, we host a range of different Animal talks, including our Birds of Prey flying display in our Wild Theatre. As members of BIAZA (British & Irish Association of Zoos & Aquaria) we have better than average standards in all things Zoo - from our spacious animal enclosures to our conservation and education programmes.
Lady’s Well is an atmospheric little pool surrounded by a grove of trees. There are rumours that it was originally associated with the Anglo-Saxon Saint Ninian. Legend has it the saint baptised many early Christians in its holy water. In Medieval times, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The powerful spring that feeds the pool is the source of Holystone village’s water supply. A stone cross, placed in its centre during Victorian times, adds to its mystery.
This spectacular waterfall tumbles 18 metres down a rock face to the plunge pool below. Take a walk along the burn and see the ‘bottomless’ plunge pot, beneath the tall spout in a pretty glade that is ideal for picnics. Linhope Spout is located inside the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. The perfect spot to find Red Squirrels.
Enjoy a circular walk up to the summit of Simonside, involving some short, steep gradients.
A walk along the Simonside Hills must not be missed. From the top, you have a wonderful 360-degree view encompassing the Cheviot Hills and North Sea coastline.
The area is popular for wildlife such as the curlew, red grouse, mountain bumblebee, emperor moth, and even red squirrels in the forest below.
