Northumberland Travel Transport Guide: Explore the Best Scenic Routes and Services

Exploring Northumberland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites is an adventure we all dream of. But how do we get around this enchanting county? Understanding the various travel transport options available in Northumberland can make our journey smoother and more enjoyable.

From scenic train rides along the coast to reliable bus services connecting quaint villages, Northumberland offers a range of transport choices. Whether we’re planning a day trip to Hadrian’s Wall or a weekend retreat in the Cheviot Hills, knowing our travel options helps us make the most of our time in this beautiful part of the UK.

Key Takeaways

• Scenic Train Journeys: Northumberland’s train services provide picturesque coastal rides, connecting key stations like Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Morpeth to major cities such as Newcastle and Edinburgh.
• Extensive Bus Network: Reliable and frequent bus services operated by Arriva and Go North East cover major towns and rural areas, making it easy to reach popular destinations without a car.
• Flexible Car Hire: Car hire options from companies like Hertz and Enterprise in towns such as Morpeth and Hexham offer the flexibility to explore remote areas and personalise your travel experience.
• Cycling and Walking Paths: Northumberland features well-marked cycling routes and scenic walking trails, such as the Coast and Castles Cycle Route and the Northumberland Coast Path, ideal for active and sustainable exploration.
• Accessibility for Disabled Travellers: Northumberland’s transport options are designed to accommodate disabled travellers, with step-free train stations, accessible buses, adapted car rentals, and wheelchair-friendly taxis.

Overview of Northumberland Travel Transport

Northumberland offers several travel transport options that cater to different types of travellers. With efficient train services and comprehensive bus networks, transportation in Northumberland is both convenient and accessible.

Train Travel

Trains in Northumberland provide a scenic journey along the coast, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy picturesque landscapes. Key stations include Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Morpeth. These stations connect to major cities like Newcastle and Edinburgh, ensuring easy access to the county. Northern Rail and CrossCountry are the primary operators on these routes, offering regular services with modern amenities.

Bus Services

The bus network in Northumberland connects most towns and villages, enabling travellers to explore the region efficiently. Operators like Arriva and Go North East offer frequent services, covering popular destinations such as Alnwick, Hexham, and Seahouses. Buses are well-maintained and provide a cost-effective way to travel, particularly for those without a car.

Car Hire

For those preferring more flexibility, car hire is a viable option. Several agencies, including Hertz and Enterprise, have rental locations in towns such as Morpeth and Hexham. Hiring a car allows for a more personalised travel experience, ideal for visiting remote areas like Kielder Forest and the Cheviot Hills.

Cycling Routes

Northumberland is also cyclist-friendly, with numerous cycling routes that showcase the county’s natural beauty. The National Cycle Network, including routes like NCN 1 and NCN 68, offers well-marked paths ranging from coastal trails to rugged inland journeys. This sustainable mode of transport appeals to those wanting active exploration.

Ferry Services

Ferry services are available for reaching destinations like the Farne Islands. Operators such as Billy Shiel’s Farne Island Tours and Serenity Farne Island Tours provide regular trips from Seahouses, offering unique opportunities for bird-watching and seal-spotting.

Walking Paths

Walking is a fantastic way to experience Northumberland’s landscapes. The county boasts a wealth of walking paths, including the St. Oswald’s Way and the Northumberland Coast Path. These trails vary in difficulty and offer stunning views of the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

These varied transport options make travelling in Northumberland seamless and enjoyable, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the county’s diverse attractions.

Public Transport Options

Northumberland offers diverse public transport options, making it easy to explore the county. Both buses and trains provide comprehensive coverage.

Buses

Bus services in Northumberland are extensive, connecting major towns and rural areas. Operators like Arriva and Go North East run regular routes. For example, the X18 route links Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed via Alnwick, perfect for accessing key attractions. Buses generally run every 30-60 minutes, with more frequent services in urban areas. Special routes cater to school times and weekend travellers, ensuring flexible schedules.

Trains

Train services in Northumberland connect to major cities like Newcastle and Edinburgh. Key stations include Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Morpeth, all offering scenic rides along the coast. Operators like LNER and CrossCountry run frequent services, with travel times from Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed approximately 45 minutes. Additionally, local trains operated by Northern cover shorter routes, offering budget-friendly options for regional travel.

Private Transport

Explore Northumberland at your own pace with private transport options. These choices offer flexibility and convenience for visiting remote areas and hidden gems.

Car Hire

Car hire services in Northumberland provide the freedom to explore the region on your own terms. In towns like Morpeth and Hexham, well-known car hire companies like Hertz and Enterprise offer a range of vehicles. Compact cars, ideal for narrow country lanes, and larger vehicles, suitable for family trips, are available. Booking in advance ensures vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Satellite navigation systems and child seats can be requested to enhance your travel experience.

Taxi Services

Taxi services in Northumberland cater to those preferring not to drive themselves. Reputable companies like Warren’s Taxis and Bill’s Cars operate across the county. Taxis are readily available at major train stations, including Alnmouth and Berwick-upon-Tweed, ensuring easy transfers to accommodations or tourist attractions. Pre-booking a taxi guarantees timely pick-ups and drop-offs, especially for early morning flights from Newcastle International Airport. Many taxi services also offer guided tours, providing local insights and historical context to the journey.

Cycling and Walking Routes

Northumberland offers diverse cycling and walking routes, allowing travellers to explore its breathtaking landscapes in an eco-friendly manner. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring accessibility for both casual tourists and seasoned adventurers.

Cycling Routes

Northumberland boasts several well-marked cycling routes. The Coast and Castles Cycle Route stretches over 192 miles from Newcastle to Edinburgh, passing through the serene Northumberland coastline. It offers stunning views of iconic castles like Bamburgh and Warkworth. Another popular route, Hadrian’s Cycleway, runs for 174 miles from Ravenglass to Tynemouth, following the path of the historic Hadrian’s Wall.

Walking Routes

Walking enthusiasts can enjoy numerous trails across Northumberland. The Pennine Way, one of the UK’s oldest National Trails, spans 268 miles from Derbyshire to the Scottish Borders, offering a challenging yet rewarding journey through the Cheviot Hills. For a shorter option, the Northumberland Coast Path extends 62 miles from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, featuring picturesque sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.

Trail Accessibility

Most cycling and walking routes in Northumberland are accessible year-round, though conditions may vary with the seasons. Trails such as the St. Oswald’s Way provide waymarked paths that make navigation straightforward, even for beginners. Additionally, local visitor centres often provide maps and guides, ensuring that visitors are well-prepared for their adventures.

Connecting Paths

Many trails intersect with public transport options, enhancing convenience. For instance, the Sandstone Way, a 120-mile mountain biking route from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Hexham, intersects with bus routes and train stations, facilitating easy access.

These varied and scenic trails allow us to fully immerse ourselves in Northumberland’s breathtaking natural beauty while promoting sustainable travel.

Accessibility for Disabled Travellers

Northumberland offers multiple transport options catering to disabled travellers, ensuring a hassle-free experience while exploring the county. Train stations including Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Morpeth feature step-free access, tactile paving, and lift services to assist passengers with mobility impairments. Operators like LNER and CrossCountry provide onboard facilities such as wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance.

Bus services run by Arriva and Go North East are equipped with low-floor access and designated wheelchair spaces. Priority seating and audio-visual announcements assist visually and hearing-impaired travellers. Buses typically run every 30-60 minutes, facilitating easy travel between major towns and rural locales.

For those requiring private transport, car hire companies like Hertz and Enterprise in towns such as Morpeth and Hexham offer vehicles with hand controls and other adaptations. Disabled travellers can also avail of taxi services, with many operators providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These taxis can be pre-booked, ensuring timely arrivals.

Northumberland’s ferry services to the Farne Islands and the range of accessible walking and cycling routes enhance the travel experience for disabled visitors. The Coast and Castles Cycle Route and Hadrian’s Cycleway have sections suitable for adaptive bikes, while pathways like the Northumberland Coast Path offer firm, level surfaces.

Local visitor centres provide detailed accessibility guides and maps, ensuring travellers with disabilities can plan their routes effectively. These resources support a seamless, inclusive travel experience across Northumberland’s diverse landscapes and historic sites.

Tips for Travelling Around Northumberland

Efficiently navigating Northumberland requires some planning. Here are some valuable tips for making the most of your journey.

Use Public Transport

Northumberland offers efficient train and bus services. Trains operated by LNER and CrossCountry connect major towns and cities. Key stations include Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Morpeth. For bus travel, operators like Arriva and Go North East run frequent services. The X18 route, for example, links Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed via Alnwick.

Consider Car Hire

Car hire services, available in towns such as Morpeth and Hexham, provide flexibility. Companies like Hertz and Enterprise offer varied vehicle options. Renting a car allows easy access to remote areas like the Cheviot Hills.

Plan Your Cycling Routes

Northumberland is cyclist-friendly with routes like the Coast and Castles Cycle Route and Hadrian’s Cycleway. These paths offer safe and scenic journeys. Cyclists can find bike hire facilities and repair shops in key towns.

Take Advantage of Walking Paths

Walking enthusiasts can explore trails like the Pennine Way and Northumberland Coast Path. These paths provide an immersive experience of the landscape. Local visitor centres offer maps and guides for these routes.

Pre-Book Taxi Services

For additional convenience, taxis are a reliable option. Taxis can be pre-booked, especially for early or late travel times. They are readily available at major train stations and useful for reaching off-the-beaten-path locations.

Stay Informed

Check local travel updates and timetables. Websites and mobile apps provide real-time information on public transport. Staying updated helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth journey.

Accessibility Considerations

Northumberland accommodates disabled travellers with accessible transport options. Train stations feature step-free access, and buses have low-floor designs. Car hire companies provide adapted vehicles, and taxis offer wheelchair-accessible options. Visitor centres supply accessibility guides for various routes.

Following these tips will enhance your travel experience across Northumberland’s stunning landscapes.

Conclusion

Northumberland offers a variety of transport options that cater to every traveller’s needs. Whether we’re hopping on a scenic train, catching a reliable bus, hiring a car, or cycling along breathtaking routes, there’s something for everyone.

By planning ahead and utilising the diverse transport services available, we can ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey through this stunning county. Let’s embrace the convenience and flexibility these options provide to fully immerse ourselves in Northumberland’s rich landscapes and historic sites.

Travelling efficiently and sustainably, we can make the most of our visit and create unforgettable memories in this remarkable region.