Scotland
Up in the wilds of Northumberland, you’ll find the town of Wooler, positioned perfectly between the dramatic Cheviots and the Northumberland Coast National Park.
There’s plenty to explore in Northumberland and Wooler is an ideal central base with lots of cute cafes and eateries within the town itself. Do you want a walking holiday or little outings to unspoilt seaside towns? Wooler offers both. . . and much more!
Visit Chillingham Castle – if you dare! The most haunted castle in Britain welcomes you with open arms and a slightly cold chill in its shadowiest corners. If you’d prefer to stick to the known and the safe, you can relax while strolling the extensive gardens surrounding the castle grounds or enjoy a spot of lunch in the tearoom. And then after dark, if you’re brave enough, book onto one of the castle’s ghost tours. . .
Or for a truly unique day out, journey half an hour east to the isolated island of Lindisfarne. Whistle across the tidal road while the North Sea has retreated down the beach. Then discover what life was like for the monks who called Holy Island’s ancient monastery their home.
Sample the fresh crabcakes or Lindisfarne’s own matured mead. But make sure you return to the mainland before the tide comes back in!
Northumberland boasts the marvellous Cheviot Hills, only a few miles west from your base of Wooler. Spend a hearty day or three hiking these dramatic hills. Beginners will love the 3.5 mile Yeavering Bell hike where you can explore the remains of a Roman fort.
For more practiced hikers, relish in the challenge of the Cheviot Route. Follow the Pennine Way and climb to the highest point in Northumberland. There’s a walk for every ability and there’s plenty of unique scenery to explore!
Or if you’d prefer an exploration of Northumberland nature from one place, you’ve got to sail out to the Farne Islands. The inimitable islands, just off the coast of Northumberland, hold a stunning selection of wildlife, from seals and puffins to 1000 seabirds. Don’t forget to explore the history of the monks, lighthouse keepers, soldiers and even the saint who called these breathtaking islands home. Make sure you book a boat ticket in advance, because these trips are in high demand!
Sneakily tucked away behind one of Wooler’s twisting streets is Milan Italian Restaurant. A delight to locals and visitors alike, Milan is perhaps Wooler’s best loved restaurant and for good reason. The cosy stone walls brings a warmth and atmosphere you might expect in an Italian taverna. And the food certainly wouldn’t be out of place, either! You’ll find perfected Italian classics on the pasta menu, along with a design-your-own-pizza option available for pickier eaters.
If you’re looking for a refreshing treat for during the day, Wooler boasts a delicious independent ice-cream shop in Doddington Dairy Milk Bar. Doddington offers takeaway cones to hikers and cyclists, but they’re not just satisfied with selling their delicious ice-cream plain.
An extensive sit-down menu features tasty milkshakes, loaded banana splits and moreish cookie sandwiches. Plus, there’s a whole host of light bites if you (for some reason) want a break from staring at their tempting display of ice-cream flavours.