Where Roman Britain Comes to Life

Just a short drive from either park lies Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enduring symbol of Rome’s northern frontier. This ancient barrier stretches across the landscape, dotted with forts and milecastles that reveal the daily lives of soldiers stationed at the edge of the empire.

Highlights include:

• Vindolanda – An active archaeological site where artefacts are still emerging from the soil, from handwritten tablets to perfectly preserved shoes.
• Chesters Roman Fort – A riverside cavalry fort with remarkably intact bathhouses and barracks.
• Corbridge Roman Town – Once a bustling supply hub, now a peaceful village where ancient streets meet cosy tea rooms.

Medieval Wonders and Market Town Charm

In the heart of nearby Hexham, history rises skyward in the form of Hexham Abbey, a place of worship for over 1,300 years. Beneath its beautiful nave lies a 7th‑century crypt built from Roman stone – a literal link between eras. Around the corner, the Old Gaol Museum offers a glimpse into medieval justice, complete with tales of border reivers and fortress‑like prisons.

The town itself invites you to linger, with cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, and an award‑winning market that continues a tradition stretching back centuries.

Castles, Keeps, and Countryside Legends

Northumberland is famed for its castles, and many are within easy reach. Aydon Castle, an almost untouched fortified manor house, feels like a step into a medieval storybook, while Prudhoe Castle boasts commanding views over the River Tyne and centuries of defensive history.

Venture a little further and you’ll find coastal icons like Bamburgh Castle, towering over the North Sea, and Warkworth Castle, with its distinctive cross‑shaped keep and riverside setting.

Lindisfarne – The Holy Island

For those willing to travel further afield, the journey to Lindisfarne is an unforgettable one. Accessible only by a tidal causeway, this small island is steeped in spiritual significance and early Christian history. The ruins of Lindisfarne Priory whisper stories of monks, Vikings, and medieval pilgrimage, while the castle, perched high on a volcanic mound, offers sweeping views of sea and shore. Time your visit with the tides and you’ll experience the unique sense of stepping into another world.

History at Your Doorstep

From the Roman legions who marched along Hadrian’s Wall to the medieval monks of Lindisfarne, Northumberland’s past is alive in its landscapes, towns, and coastlines. Staying at Springhouse or Heathergate puts you at the heart of it all – with centuries of history ready to explore, one remarkable place at a time.