Chathill

Rolling farmland stretches endlessly here, broken only by ancient dry stone walls and the occasional red-roofed farmhouse dotting the horizon. Chathill sits quietly in Northumberland's countryside, a proper working village that most tourists hurtle past on their way to the coast. That's their loss.

The village serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring some of the county's lesser-known treasures. St Maurice church at nearby Ellingham makes for a peaceful stop, its Norman stonework weathered but impressive. For those who fancy a proper walk, the paths around Charlton Burn offer lovely countryside views without the crowds you'll find closer to Hadrian's Wall.

Northumberland Park Estate spreads across thousands of acres to the west, though access is limited. More rewarding is Hulne Park, where you can actually wander the grounds and spot red squirrels if you're lucky. The walking here is first-rate, with paths that wind through ancient woodland and open moorland.

Being inland means you'll need to drive for coastal attractions, but it's only a twenty-minute trip to reach some of Northumberland's finest beaches. The A1 runs nearby, making this area surprisingly accessible despite its rural feel. Newcastle sits about an hour south for those needing a proper city fix.

Staying at one of the local holiday parks makes perfect sense if you want to explore both coast and countryside without the premium prices of seaside accommodation. Northumberland Coast Camp gets consistently good reviews and puts you within easy reach of both the heritage coast and the Cheviot Hills. You're close enough to nip to the seaside for fish and chips, yet far enough inland to enjoy proper peace and quiet.