Northumberland is the perfect destination for a bank holiday getaway, especially if you own a holiday home at Elm Bank Coastal Park. With its breathtaking coastlines, rich history, and endless outdoor adventures, there’s something here for every member of the family. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, paddling along sandy beaches, or enjoying some well-earned ice cream, Northumberland delivers memorable experiences in spades.
Here are our top 10 family-friendly activities to enjoy during the bank holiday:
- Explore the Mighty Bamburgh Castle
No trip to Northumberland is complete without a visit to the legendary Bamburgh Castle. Towering over the coastline, this iconic fortress has stood for over 1,400 years and is rich in history, legend, and cinematic appeal – it even featured in TV series The Last Kingdom. Wander the ramparts, peek into dungeons, and soak up the breathtaking views across the North Sea. Kids will love exploring its towering walls, while adults will appreciate the storytelling and heritage woven into every corner.
Bank Holiday Highlights:
Don’t miss the Acle Re-enactments, bringing the medieval world to life with sword fights, encampments, and thrilling demonstrations across both May Bank Holidays (May 3–6 and August 25). The Warrior School also returns in May, letting young knights train like Saxon soldiers. Plus, the castle is hosting LEGO-themed events throughout the season – ideal for little builders with big imaginations. Bring a picnic or enjoy a bite at the castle café, with locally sourced food and unbeatable views.
- Spend the Day at The Alnwick Garden
For a magical family day out, The Alnwick Garden is hard to beat. This award-winning attraction combines creativity, nature, and play in spectacular fashion. From the enchanting Treehouse Restaurant to the splash-happy water features and vibrant floral displays, it’s a place where children and grown-ups alike can explore and unwind.
Bank Holiday Highlights:
- Inflatable Assault Course (May 3–5): Let the kids burn off energy on a giant inflatable course, included with your garden admission.
- Meet Peppa Pig and Mummy Pig (May 24–26): Beloved characters will be making appearances throughout the day – perfect for younger visitors.
Year-Round Attractions Include:
- The Poison Garden: Take a guided tour through the world’s most dangerous plants — a fun, educational twist.
- The Grand Cascade: Watch 120 powerful water jets put on a captivating display.
- The Treehouse Restaurant: Dine among the treetops in one of the largest treehouse restaurants in the world.
The garden is open daily from 10am–5pm (from April 28) and children go free with a paying adult!
- Beach Day at Druridge Bay
Just minutes from Elm Bank Coastal Park, Druridge Bay offers seven miles of sweeping golden sands – perfect for a classic British beach day. Whether you’re building sandcastles, flying kites, or enjoying a peaceful stroll along the shoreline, it’s a fantastic spot for families to unwind and explore. For those feeling brave, the bay is also a popular spot for paddling, swimming, and water sports – so bring a bucket, spade, and maybe a wetsuit too!
Right next to the beach, you’ll find Druridge Bay Country Park – a brilliant bonus for families. The park features a tranquil lake, picnic areas, and accessible walking and cycling trails through woodlands and meadows. There’s also a café and a children’s play area, making it a great place to refuel and let the little ones run free.
- Take a Boat Trip to the Farne Islands
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Farne Islands, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. Departing from Seahouses Harbour, these boat trips offer a unique opportunity to witness one of the UK’s most important seabird colonies and a thriving grey seal population.
What You’ll See:
- Puffins: From April to late July, the islands are teeming with these charismatic birds, making it a prime time for birdwatching.
- Grey Seals: Spot these marine mammals lounging on the rocks or swimming nearby.
- Other Seabirds: Look out for guillemots, razorbills, and Arctic terns.
Boat Operators:
- Billy Shiel’s Boat Trips: A family-run business since 1918, offering a variety of tours including Inner Farne landings and seal cruises.
- Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours: Known for their knowledgeable guides and diverse trip options, including sunset cruises and photography tours.
- Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips: Offers exclusive landings on Longstone Island with a tour of Grace Darling’s historic lighthouse.
Planning Tips:
- Advance Booking: Highly recommended, especially during bank holidays and peak seasons.
- National Trust Landing Fee: If your trip includes landing on Inner Farne, a fee applies (free for National Trust members).
- What to Bring: Warm layers, waterproofs, sturdy footwear, binoculars, and a camera.
- Cycle the Coast and Castles Route
Embark on a scenic cycling adventure along the Coast and Castles Route, a trail that winds through Northumberland’s dramatic coastline, historic landmarks, and picturesque villages. Ideal for older kids and active families, it offers a mix of gentle and more challenging sections.
Popular Stops:
- Bamburgh Castle
- Alnwick Castle
- Warkworth Castle
- Holy Island (Lindisfarne)
- Seahouses
Where to Rent Bikes:
- Pedal Power Cycling, Amble
- Northumberland eBikes, Seahouses
- Go Electric Bike Hire
- Coquet Cycles, Alnwick
- Discover Warkworth Castle and Hermitage
The medieval village of Warkworth is a delight, and its magnificent 12th century castle is the centrepiece. Explore the castle’s grand halls and winding staircases, then take a short boat ride along the River Coquet to reach the peaceful rock-cut Hermitage.
Bank Holiday Highlights:
- Members’ Week: Tudor Template for a Victorian Rogue (May 6)
- Medieval Mischief (August 5–6)
- Knights’ Tournament (August 12–13)
- Medieval Falconry (August 19–20)
These events are included in the standard ticket price, with free entry for English Heritage members.
- Try Crabbing in Amble Harbour
Crabbing in Amble Harbour is a timeless activity that kids absolutely love. All you need is a line, a bucket, and some bait, and you’re ready to go. The harbour has safe, designated spots for crabbing, plus benches and picnic areas.
Afterwards, explore the Harbour Village with its colourful retail pods or grab a bite at one of the local eateries. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Amble Market – perfect for picking up local goodies.
- Visit Woodhorn Museum
Rainy day? No problem. Woodhorn Museum in Ashington is an excellent indoor attraction that tells the story of Northumberland’s mining past. With interactive exhibits, huge machinery, and creative workshops, it’s a hit with all ages.
Bank Holiday Highlights:
- Birds of Prey Display (May 28)
Ongoing Exhibitions:
- Northumberland Open Exhibition (until June 1)
Family Features:
- Outdoor play area
- Art and craft sessions
- Free entry for children under 16
- Step Back into Roman Britain Along Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history-loving families. Explore Roman forts like Housesteads and Vindolanda, where kids can climb ruins and see artefacts up close.
Bank Holiday Highlights:
- Hadrian’s Wall Coast to Coast Challenge (May 3–5)
- Rosalia Festival at Roman Army Museum (May 3–June 1)
- Magna Fest at Magna Fort (May 24–28)
- Members’ Week at Chesters Roman Fort (May 3 & 5)
- Enjoy an Ice Cream and a Stroll in Alnmouth
End your day the sweet way in Alnmouth. This colourful coastal village is ideal for a slow-paced afternoon. Wander the peaceful beach, explore charming shops, and grab a scoop (or two) of delicious local ice cream from Scott’s of Alnmouth.
Ready to Make Every Bank Holiday Count?
There’s no better place to enjoy Northumberland’s family-friendly charm than Elm Bank Coastal Park. With ancient castles, golden beaches, wildlife adventures and all-weather attractions just moments away, it’s the ideal base for unforgettable getaways. It’s little wonder so many families are choosing to invest in their own static caravan at Elm Bank – creating a permanent holiday home where the best of Northumberland is always on the doorstep.