Your gateway to castles, coastlines, and countryside charm
Tucked between the Northumberland National Park and the North Sea coast, Percy Wood Country Park is a peaceful, woodland holiday spot surrounded by nature—but it also makes a brilliant base for exploring one of England’s most scenic (and often underrated) counties.
Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, golf fan, or wildlife watcher, there’s something for everyone within easy reach.
🏰 1. Alnwick Castle & Gardens (15 mins drive)
One of England’s most iconic castles—instantly recognisable to Harry Potter fans!
Highlights:
- Explore grand rooms and medieval towers
- Broomstick flying lessons in the courtyard (spring/summer)
- Visit The Alnwick Garden next door: home to the Poison Garden, a giant treehouse restaurant, and interactive water sculptures
🏖️ 2. Northumberland Coast AONB (25–30 mins drive)
The coastline here is stunning—and uncrowded.
Top spots:
- Alnmouth – Colourful seaside village with a golden beach
- Warkworth – Castle ruins, riverside walks, and a picture-postcard village
- Druridge Bay – A vast stretch of sand, great for walking or wildlife
🐾 3. Cragside (20 mins drive)
A Victorian mansion set in a forested estate—Cragside was the first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity!
- Gorgeous lakes, gardens, and woodland trails
- Ideal for families and dog walkers
- A blend of tech history and natural beauty
🔗 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside
🛍️ 4. Morpeth (15–20 mins drive)
A charming market town for shopping, coffee, and river walks.
Don’t miss:
- Sanderson Arcade – boutique shopping
- Carlisle Park – a lovely riverside green space
- Great local pubs and independent cafés
🐿️ 5. Northumberland Country Zoo (5 mins drive)
A brilliant small zoo that’s just minutes from Percy Wood!
- See meerkats, lynx, wallabies, and more
- Play areas and hands-on animal experiences
- Fun for kids and animal lovers alike
⛳ 6. Golf at Your Doorstep
Percy Wood Golf Course is right next to the park
- 18 holes with rolling countryside views
- Open to visitors
- Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
🚶♀️ 7. Walking & Wildlife
Right from your lodge or caravan, you can explore:
- Woodland trails in the park itself
- Nearby walks into the Cheviot Hills
- Look out for red squirrels, deer, and birds of prey
- Simonside Hills or Rothbury offer excellent half-day hikes nearby
🏞️ 8. Day Trips & Castles Galore
- Bamburgh Castle – Majestic and right on the beach (40 mins)
- Holy Island / Lindisfarne – Historic and atmospheric (check tide times!)
- Hadrian’s Wall – Iconic Roman ruins and walking trails (about 1 hour)
🏡 On-Site at Percy Wood Country Park
- Peaceful, spacious woodland setting
- Children’s play area
- Golf and walking right on site
- Dog-friendly with plenty of space for walks
- Relaxing evenings with birdsong and stargazing
🚗 Need-to-Know
- Car is essential to explore fully
- Closest supermarkets: Alnwick or Morpeth
- Local village: West Thirston/Felton has a great pub (The Northumberland Arms) and bakery
✨ Final Thoughts
Percy Wood Country Park is a brilliant base to soak up everything Northumberland has to offer—from castles and coastlines to forests and farms. Whether you’re looking for full-on adventure or slow countryside days, you’re in the perfect spot to do it all (or nothing at all).