Five places to stay in Northumberland for a change this summer

It's looking hopeful that domestic holidays will start again later this summer...fingers crossed.

Northumberland is one of my favourite parts of England but often seems to get sidelined by the travel press in favour of Devon and Cornwall.

If you're willing to venture somewhere new this year, here are a few ideas for Northumbrian properties to rent from Coquet Cottages, who I've used before and is the kind of small business we need to support this year more than ever.

1. The Penthouse, Amble

Set on a beautiful marina in the fishing town of Amble, this apartment has two balconies with outstanding views from every window, looking onto the marina down the Coquet estuary onto magnificent Warkworth Castle, and out to sea.

With a large open-plan living area and four spacious bedrooms, all en suite, The Penthouse offers a relaxing space for up to eight guests. Plus, there’s a games room to keep little (and big) kids busy.

2. Pottergate Tower, Alnwick

Pottergate Tower is a Grade II Listed gate tower set in the market town of Alnwick. The historic property sleeps two, so it's perfect for a romantic getaway. The beautiful Gothic-arched stone carved window provides great views of Alnwick Castle and the moors beyond.

3. Lyndhurst, near Alnmouth

This holiday home sits over-looking the links golf course on the headland at Foxton, just a stone’s through away from the arty village of Alnmouth.

Lyndhurst offers a spacious retreat for 8 adults and 2 children and its dog-friendly too.

Alnmouth beach is just a 5-minute walk away, making it perfect for those looking for a break near the coast.

4. Strathmore, Wooler

Set in the pretty border town of Wooler, Strathmore is a beautifully-refurbished Victorian home that sleeps up to ten guests and two dogs, and includes a hot tub in the private garden. It has two wood-burning stoves and a lovely master bedroom with roll-top bath.

The pretty high street of Wooler is full of independent shops, cosy pubs and good restaurants all within a short walking distance of Strathmore.

5. Wynding Head, Bamburgh

Recently refurbished, this property has amazing views of Bamburgh Castle, as well as sea views from some of the bedrooms. It offers room for up to six guests and two dogs in three bedrooms.

(No...if you book any of these cottages I don't get 10 per cent commission (unfortunately), or in fact any commission, but let me know if you do book, as it would just be interesting to know that someone reads this blog!

And I'd love to feature cottages in Dumfries & Galloway, Sussex, the Highlands, Orkney, Outer Hebrides, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, so get in touch if you've read this far!)

Photo credit = top photo, Bruce Edwards (Unsplash); all other photos = Coquet Cottages.