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26 Feb, 2024
The coastal region of Northumberland attracts thousands of locals and tourists every year. With miles of coastline and countryside to explore, we've put together some of our favourite Northumberland local food delicacies and where to find them below. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, get a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England that borders Scotland. It is bordered by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: Early Grey tea originated in Northumberland Northumberland food: local delicacies and where to find them Berwick cockles Despite its name, a Berwick cockle is a white sweet with red stripes. The original sweets were made in Berwick-upon-Tweed from 1801 to 2010 by the Cowe family. The sweets were originally hard mints then became 'crumbly' mints in recent years. They are still manufactured and can be bought online. Lindisfarne Oysters Lindisfarne Oysters are a famous Northumberland food that can be enjoyed all year round. The oysters start in a hatchery then are transferred to the beds in Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve until they grow to the size of a thumbnail. They can take up to four years to reach this size and are grown in fine mesh bags just off Holy Island. Lindisfarne is also well known for its mead, a locally made drink of honey wine blended with local water, grape juice, herbs and spirits. Said to have links to the mead once made by monks who lived on the island, the wine can be tasted and purchased on the island today. Smoked kippers Smoked kippers are a famous Northumberland food that are still produced traditionally. Alleged to be popular with the Royal Family, L Robson & Sons prepare the dish using recipes that are over a century old while Swallowfish, located in Seahouses, still use the original smokehouses that have smoked herrings since 1843 using traditional oak sawdust without additives or preservatives. Ham and pease pudding stottie A stottie is a flat, round bread loaf that comes from the Geordie word "stot," meaning to bounce, reflecting the bread's texture. Known as the marmite of the north, pease pudding is a savoury spread made of split yellow peas, with water, salt and spices, and often cooked with a bacon or ham joint. Made with locally sourced ingredients, the Big River Bakery in Shieldfield has been voted as having the best ham and pease pudding stottie in the north. While this article focused on Northumberland local food delicacies and where to find them, y ou can find a range of Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
25 Feb, 2024
Northumberland Dark Sky Park has the largest expanse of protected dark skies in the UK. Covering an area of over 500 square miles, 96 per cent of the park has low levels of light pollution and has been awarded Gold Tier status for being the best place to stargaze in the UK. Whether you're a local or passing through the county, experience the star studded skies Northumberland has to offer. Discover our Northumberland Dark Sky Park and top stargazing tips with our guide. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Get in touch to book your service today . Our carpet cleaning service removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look new again. With a low drying time, get in touch for a quote today. Northumberland Dark Sky Park Kielder Observatory Found in the centre of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, Kielder Observatory is open all year round. The venue hosts events all year round for regular stargazers and those who doing it for the first time. In the winter visitors can view galaxies during the dark skies in winter, while summer is the perfect opportunity to spot clusters, shooting stars and the sun's surface. Stonehaugh Astronomy Stonehaugh Astronomy is based in Kielder and hosts events to enjoy the largest protected dark sky in Europe. Led by local astronomer Liam Reed, regular events are held in his observatory and at the nearby Stonehaugh Dark Sky Pavilion. Twice Brewed Inn Located within the Northumberland Dark Sky Park, the Twice Brewed Inn is based next to Hadrian’s Wall and is a popular bed and breakfast destination for astronomers. Guests can enjoy a presentation before heading out for a laser guided tour of the constellations and use large telescopes to spot planets, galaxies and star clusters. The venue benefits from minimal light pollution and allows for thousands of stars to be spotted clearly compared to neighbouring towns and cities. The venue also has an interactive 360 immersive dome that brings the universe to life and showcases 3 shows for children of all ages to enjoy. Stargazing tips Wear plenty of layers to keep warm Give your eyes time to adapt to the darkness by avoiding looking at your phone for at least half an hour Keep an eye out for bright ‘stars’ that don’t twinkle as it’s most likely a planet Check the moon phase before you stargaze as if the moon is full and bright, its brightness will reduce the number of many meteors you can see While this article focused on stargazing in Northumberland you can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
17 Feb, 2024
The coastal region of Northumberland attracts thousands of locals and tourists every year. With miles of coastline and countryside to explore, we've put together some recommended valleys in Northumberland to visit any time of the year. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, get a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England. Bordering Scotland, the county is surrounded by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: With 70 castles, Northumberland is the most castled region in England Valleys in Northumberland Ingram valley Nestled within Breamish Valley, Ingram valley is the perfect beauty spot to enjoy the Northumberland countryside with views of the Cheviot Hills, formed over 480 million years ago, in the distance, The river walk is perfect for picnics and the local village of Ingram can be visited at the end of your adventure. The valley is also home to the multi award winning National Park Experience ‘The Ingram Valley Farm Safari’ , making it the perfect day out whatever the weather. Parking is available right by the river at Ingram Bridge car park NE66 4LT. Breamish valley The rolling hills of Breamish Valley make it the perfect scenic setting or a picnic after a long walk. Dotted with prehistoric hillforts, the invigorating hill walk has high, exposed hill tops that a perfect to explore on warmer days. Adventorous walkers can also access the nearby Linhope Spout waterfall, which is just a short walk beyond Hartside. Parking is available at Ingram Bridge car park NE66 4LT. with footpath access to Ingram Church, Café and Exhibition. Allen valleys Known for their biodiversity, The Allen Valleys have large areas of important habitats like upland hay meadows. Perfect for hikers, climbers and walkers, the valleys are filled with grassy hills to explore and rocky ridges to climb while enjoying gorgeous countryside views. Parking is available at the National Trust car park at Allen Banks and Staward Gorge NE47 7BP. While this article focused on valleys in Northumberland, y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
10 Feb, 2024
Northumberland is a county famed for its coastline but also has a range of campsites for locals and tourists to discover. Settle into the quiet countryside with some of our favourite spots for camping in Northumberland. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, fill out a simple form for a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England. Bordering Scotland, the county is surrounded by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: Located in Northumberland the Vindolanda is the only Roman milestone in Britain that remains in its original position. Camping in Northumberland Walkmill Campsite Quiet, private setting for spacious tent, caravan and motorhome pitches. Dog friendly. 15 mins from the coast. Bankfoot Campsite Family and dog friendly camping and glamping with spectacular sunrises and views down to the Tyne Valley. Coast and Castles camping This flawless sandy beach in Northumberland is a hidden treasure. To find this beach, park your car at Ross farm and follow the path through the fields until you cross the dunes to the beach. This 1.5 mile walk (approximately 20 minutes) from your car to the beach is worth it. You can enjoy deserted, panoramic views of Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island) and Bamburgh Castle. Keep an eye out for any seals as they are often spotted here! Due to wildlife and cattle when crossing through the farm, you may have to keep your dog on a lead. The postcode for parking at Ross Farm is NE70 7EN Hadrian's Wall Campsite. Found right next to Howick, this small secluded beach in Northumberland is so secretive that you won't even find it on Google Maps. The beach gets its name from a hole in the rocks that rumbles loudly when the waves crash through it during high tide. On this small beach, you can spot a bathing house that was built in the early 19th century specifically for Earl Grey (of the Newcastle monument) and his large family. Off road parking is available at NE66 3LH but often fills up quickly, so be sure to head down early. Doxford Farm Camping While this article focused on camping in Northumberland, y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
01 Feb, 2024
While Northumberland is famous for its long stretches of scenic beaches, the county also has a range of beautiful nature spots for wild swimming. Whether you're a local lo9oking for a new spot or visiting the area for the first time, discover our top areas for wild swimming in Northumberland below. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, get in touch for a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England. Bordering Scotland, the county is surrounded by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Top tips for wild swimming Let someone know where and when you are planning to go Don’t stay in the water too long Take a towel and warm clothes to change into after your swim Pick up litter (even if its not yours) Leave no trace Wild swimming in Northumberland Linhope Spout This hidden gem is tucked away in the Cheviot Hills. Linhope Spout is a 60-foot waterfall which lands into a plunge pool - 2 metres wide by 5 metres deep. The idylic spot is a gentle 3-mile walk across a mixture of tarmac roads and off-road tracks. While it's a popular spot for picnics, the waterfall is often secluded and provides the perfect escape to nature. The postcode for Linhope Spout is NE66 4LZ. For a shorter walk, there is parking located at Hartside Farm approximately 1.5 miles away from the Linhope Spout. Hareshaw Linn Waterfall Hareshaw Linn waterfall is located at the end of a lovely family friendly walk across the Hareshaw Iron Works trail. The forest trail is a hub for wildlife and rare plant life and offers a restful setting throughout all seasons. The postcode for the designated waterfall car park is NE48 2BZ. Harbottle lake Found in Coquetdale, this swim includes a short hike up to the ancient Drake Stone , a m ythical place with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and ruins of Harbottle Castle. A wonderful short hike up to the ancient Drake Stone rewards you with stunning views over the surrounding countryside and over to the ruins of Harbottle Castle.Park at Forestry England car park located outside Harbottle village, then follow the forest track signposted ‘Drake Stone’ uphill through the woods. Turn right and follow the footpath over the heather moorland. As you approach the cairn, take the right at the fork which leads you to the secluded lake. To enjoy a swim at this secluded lake, park at Forestry England car park (NE65 7BB) located outside Harbottle village, then follow the forest track signposted ‘Drake Stone’ uphill through the woods. Turn right and follow the footpath over the heather moorland. Take the right at the fork to discover the lake. While this article focused on wild swimming in Northumberland, y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
22 Jan, 2024
The coastal region of Northumberland attracts thousands of locals and tourists every year. But with miles of coastline to explore, we've put together some of our favourite secluded beaches in Northumberland to enjoy a peaceful moment with breath taking scenery. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, fill out a simple form for a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England. Bordering Scotland, the county is surrounded by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: Located in Northumberland the Vindolanda is the only Roman milestone in Britain that remains in its original position. Secluded beaches in Northumberland Sugar Sands Found just to the South of Craster, this secluded beach in Northumberland stretches for around 100 metres with many small coves. Home to many rock pools, Sugar Sands, also known as Longhoughton Beach, is backed by dunes and rocky outcrops that provide a spot of shelter on particularly windy days.  From Longhoughton, turn for Low Stead Farm NE66 3AL for parking (using the honesty box available) then walk through the farm out to the dunes and head left for about half a mile to reach this secluded beach. Low Hauxley beach This sweeping beach is tucked away just away from Amble with gorgeous views of Coquet Island. When the tide is out the beach is quite wide and boasts long golden sands that absorb you in their peaceful surroundings. Head to the village of Low Hauxley to park at Hauxley Lane NE65 0JP before heading down the small dunes that frame the beach. Ross Back Sands beach This flawless sandy beach in Northumberland is a hidden treasure. To find this beach, park your car at Ross farm and follow the path through the fields until you cross the dunes to the beach. This 1.5 mile walk (approximately 20 minutes) from your car to the beach is worth it. You can enjoy deserted, panoramic views of Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island) and Bamburgh Castle. Keep an eye out for any seals as they are often spotted here! Due to wildlife and cattle when crossing through the farm, you may have to keep your dog on a lead. The postcode for parking at Ross Farm is NE70 7EN Rumbling Kern Found right next to Howick, this small secluded beach in Northumberland is so secretive that you won't even find it on Google Maps. The beach gets its name from a hole in the rocks that rumbles loudly when the waves crash through it during high tide. On this small beach, you can spot a bathing house that was built in the early 19th century specifically for Earl Grey (of the Newcastle monument) and his large family. Off road parking is available at NE66 3LH but often fills up quickly, so be sure to head down early. While this article focused on secluded beaches in Northumberland, y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
15 Jan, 2024
Famous for its scenic beaches. the north-east coastal region of Northumberland attracts thousands of locals and tourists to its waves every year. With miles of coastline to explore for all the family, find our favourite sandy beaches in Northumberland to explore, whatever the weather, with our guide below. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, fill out a simple form for a hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England. Bordering Scotland, the county is surrounded by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: The Northumberland Coast is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Sandy beaches in Northumberland Beadnell Bay Beadnell Bay is a quieter beach tucked away near Alnwick. With a stunning curving coastline, this beach is known to produce waves up to 15 feet high. Due to the inland wind, it has become a popular spot for surfing particularly during the months of April and May as well as September to November. During high tide, it is said that the north end of the beach is best for surfing. The postcode for Beadnell Bay is NE67 5BN. Parking can be found at 3 Dunes Ct, Beadnell, Chathill NE67 5EE. Embleton Bay Embleton Bay is a wide stretch of coast with a stunning backdrop of Dunstanburgh Castle. Take in the mesmerising scenery throughout the year and enjoy kite flying or surfing on warmer days. There are also many rock pools to explore when the tide is low. There are small wooden bungalows that resemble beach huts nesting in the sand dunes behind the beach. Initially constructed in the 1930s by golfers, they are now owned by the National Trust and offer spectacular views of the beach. Parking is available on the road adjacent to the golf club which is a short walk from the dunes. The postcode is NE66 3XQ. Ross Back Sands beach This flawless sandy beach in Northumberland is a hidden treasure. To find this beach, park your car at Ross farm and follow the path through the fields until you cross the dunes to the beach. This 1.5 mile walk (approximately 20 minutes) from your car to the beach is worth it. You can enjoy deserted, panoramic views of Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island) and Bamburgh Castle. Keep an eye out for any seals as they are often spotted here! Due to wildlife and cattle when crossing through the farm, you may have to keep your dog on a lead. The postcode for parking at Ross Farm is NE70 7EN Tynemouth Longsands Known as being one of the UK's finest surf spots, this wide, sandy beach in Northumberland is famed for its wind conditions and has even staged national surfing championships. With a gorgeous mile-long coastline and nearby cafés, this Tynemouth Longsands attracts people from across the region. The postcode for Tynemouth Longsands is NE30 4NT. Pay and display parking is available at the roadside. While this article focused on top sandy beaches in Northumberland, y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
10 Jan, 2024
As well as miles of gorgeous coastline, the North is a hotspot for scenic gardens for all the family to enjoy. Explore historical sites and wander through peaceful countryside landscapes with our guide to gardens in Northumberland. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, get your hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England that borders Scotland. It is bordered by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: Famed landscape gardener Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown was born in Northumberland Gardens in Northumberland Longframlington Gardens Open throughout the year, Longframlington Gardens features 12 acres of landscaped gardens filled with nature trails, garden art and information displays for visitors to explore. Set in the Northumberland countyside, the gardens are a haven for wildlife and even have a maze quiz for horticulturalists to take part in. Perfect for a lazy weekday afternoon, take the time to listen to sound of surrounding nature while discovering secret nooks and crannies. The address for Longframlington gardens is Longframlington, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 8BE. The Alnwick Garden Attached to Alnwick castle, the Alnwick garden covers 26 acres and has a range of unique features that attract thousands of tourists and locals every year. First started as a project by the Duchess of Northumberland, the award-winning garden offers a spectacular day out for all the family. The garden is also home to the famous Poison Garden. Opened in 2004, the garden is filled with over 100 toxic plants. It was added to Alnwick garden by the Duchess for educational purposes and to allow visitors to learn about deadly plants such as nightshade, foxglove and Christmas rose. This enclosed garden can only be accessed by a guided tour in which visitors are strictly prohibited from smelling, touching or tasting any plants. Some visitors still faint while inhaling the fumes from walking in the garden. The address for The Alnwick Garden is The Alnwick Garden, Greenwell Road Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1HB. Belsay Hall and Gardens Belsay Hall and Gardens is an English Heritage site with thirty acres of exciting gardens to explore. With new additions every season, wander through the open space near the castle to take in the Quarry Garden through a rocky ravine, or wander through the well kept formal gardens. Visitors can also enjoy a sweet treat or a spot of lunch in a new café near the old stables. The address for Belsay Hall and Gardens is Belsay, Morpeth NE20 0DX. Cragside House and Gardens Originally built as a small villa in 1863, Cragside is a house that sits on a rocky pathway surrounded by trees. It was then extended into a mansion by visionaries Lord and Lady Armstrong who combined a traditional style with innovative features with technology ahead of its time. Today, the Cragside house is a Grade I listed building and has extensive gardens and artificial lakes that can be enjoyed by the general public. There are 5 lakes and over 7 million trees and shrubs throughout the estate. The rock garden that was designed to create a mountainous landscape complete with artificial water. Further down, you can also explore the Pinetum which is a collection of large plantings of mostly coniferous trees, including the tallest Scots pine in Britain at a height of 131 ft (40m). The estate is also a sanctuary for some of the last remaining red squirrel colonies in England. While this article focused on gardens in Northumberland y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
02 Jan, 2024
As well as having over thirty beaches and miles of coastline to explore, Northumberland and surrounding areas are also home to must-see sculptures and pieces of art to take in. Discover some of our favourite sculptures in Northumberland in our guide below. MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning services removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look , feel and smell new again. With a quick drying time, get your hassle-free quote today. Where is Northumberland? Northumberland is a county in North East England that borders Scotland. It is bordered by land on three sides, with the fourth side bordering the North Sea with over 100 kilometres of coastline. Fun fact: Northumberland has the largest protected area of night skies in Europe Statues in Northumberland The Couple Statue The Couple Statue is the UK's only offshore artwork. Standing on a large-scale tapered platform structure, the statue depicts a couple facing out at Newbiggin beach and acts as a breakwater to reduce damage to the shoreline. Created by Sean Henry, the statue was completed in 2007 and is made from bronze and steel. Erected as part of a £10m refurbishment project for the seaside town, the sculpture is 20m long and 12m high. T he postcode for Newbiggin beach is NE64. The Land Couple As The Couple statue (mentioned above) is located far out at sea, visitors can enjoy a closer look at the pair by viewing the smaller version known as the Land Couple on the promenade. Make sure to take plenty of photographs and head into the seaside town of Newbiggin to explore local food afterwards. The Angel of the North Erected in 1998 by Antony Gormley, The Angel of the North is one of the most famous sculptures in the UK. Created to recognise the sacrifice of miners who had worked on the site of its construction, the 20 metre high sculpture sits directly on top of a former colliery pithead by the A1. Located just outside of Northumberland, the sculpture can be admired from afar or reached by public transport or car. The postcode for the Angel of the North is NE9 7TY. Conversation Piece Created by Juan Munoz in 2001, the Conversation piece feature 22 figures standing in various poses, with some in deep conversation with eachother. Found next to Littlehaven Beach at the mouth of the Tyne in South Shields, these figures are known locally as 'the weebles' and pay a tribute to the northern coastline. The postcode to reach the Conversation Piece is NE33 1LH. While this article focused on statues in Northumberland y ou can find more Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
28 Dec, 2023
Known as the Tar Barrel Festival (spelled tar bar'l locally), this spectacular fire festival is the perfect event to celebrate New Year's Eve in Northumberland. Believed to have started in the Middle Ages, the village hosts an incredible fire ceremony that involves a procession of men carrying blazing tar and wood shavings through the market square before igniting a large bonfire. Why not try something new this New Year's Eve? MMCS Commercial Cleaning is a cleaning company in the north east. Using environmentally-friendly products, our regular holiday let changeover service in Northumberland involves a thorough clean after the departure of a guest as well as the top up of toiletries. We also provide fresh linen and towelling in our bedmaking service to create a clean, safe and welcoming environment for your next guest. Our carpet cleaning service removes up to 80 per cent of stains and makes your carpets look new again. With a quick drying time , get in touch for a hassle-free quote today. Where is Allendale? Located within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Allendale is a village in south west Northumberland approximately 34 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne. If visiting on New Year's Eve, parking will be limited near the market place and it is likely you'll find parked cars leading up to nearby Catton. Allow plenty of time to walk in towards the festivities. Fun fact: The name Allendale translates to “valley of the white water” with a combination of Celtic and Anglo-Saxon words. New Year's Eve in Northumberland Leading up to midnight Leading up to the parade, locals and visitors fill the streets of the town centre from 11pm to enjoy a range of music and dancing. At 11:30pm, the torches are lit and local men in fancy dress, known as the guisers, are called upon to collect their flaming barrels. Each guiser lifts the barrel above their head and marches behind the band towards the market place. Midnight procession At the stroke of midnight, the procession arrives at the main bonfire in the town centre to welcome the new year. Barrels are thrown onto the ceremonial fire as everyone shouts "be damned to he who throws last". The crowd join hands and sing Auld Lang Syne to the Brass Band to close the ceremony before heading into local pubs. While this article focused on New Year's Eve in Northumberland, y ou can find a range of Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
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