In a stunning turn of events, Northumberland, one of England’s most rugged and wild counties, is poised for a travel revolution. The long-awaited Northumberland railway line, connecting Newcastle to the coastal town of Ashington, is set to open in December, promising to unlock the region’s hidden gems for adventurers and wanderers alike.
A New Era of Accessibility
For decades, Northumberland’s attractive coastal towns, untamed countryside, and quaint interior villages have remained largely inaccessible to those without a car. However, the upcoming Northumberland line, coupled with the Tyne and Wear Metro receiving its first fleet upgrade in over 40 years, is about to change the game for visitors seeking to explore this captivating county.
Revitalizing Former Mining Towns
The Northumberland line will breathe new life into six former mining towns that have long watched freight trains pass through without stopping. Among these is the port town of Blyth, known for its pristine sandy beaches and rewilded dunes. The new Ashington station will also provide easy access to Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, where pub names pay homage to the area’s coastal heritage.
“The Northumberland line is a game-changer for our region. It will open up our stunning coastline and countryside to visitors from all over, boosting tourism and revitalizing our communities.”
– Local tourism official
Discovering Hidden Treasures
From the historic market town of Morpeth, home to the UK’s first bagpipe museum, to the dramatic sea views along the east coast mainline, Northumberland is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The railway will also provide access to Berwick-upon-Tweed, with its well-preserved fortified walls, a testament to the town’s turbulent past.
- Wild swimming beneath the 18-metre waterfall at Linhope Spout
- Exploring Britain’s original smart home, Cragside house
- Walking along Hadrian’s Wall to the iconic Sycamore Gap
Off the Beaten Track
While the railway will undoubtedly make Northumberland more accessible, there are still many areas that remain off the beaten track. From the working fishing port of Seahouses to the 170-year-old smokehouse in Craster, these hidden gems are well worth the extra effort to reach.
“There’s something magical about Northumberland’s untouched landscapes and traditional villages. It’s like stepping back in time to a simpler, more authentic way of life.”
– Travel blogger
Reviving Seaside Towns
The Northumberland line also holds the potential to breathe new life into seaside towns like Whitley Bay, which has suffered from decades of institutional abandonment. With a new fleet of trains connecting the city to the coast, Whitley Bay’s emerging late-night scene, featuring smart cocktail bars and cozy theatres, is poised for a renaissance.
As Britain’s relationship with its railways evolves, much-needed investment is opening up a whole new class of adventures. The Northumberland line is set to be a game-changer, inviting visitors to explore the wild landscapes, vibrant nightlife, historical treasures, and untold stories of this captivating county. So pack your bags, hop on board, and get ready to discover the best of Northumberland, one stop at a time.
