There are more than 70 castle sites from romantic ruins like Dunstanburgh Castle and Berwick Castle to the splendour of Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle.
Then there are the likes of Hadrian’s Wall, Lindisfarne Priory and Cragside. Really, visitors to Northumberland are spoilt for choice!
Special events are being held at a number of them over the summer – or just enjoy the wonder of them in your own time. Take a look at some of the highlights….
5. Cragside, near Rothbury
Cragside was light-years ahead of its time. The home of hydroelectricity, Lord and Lady Armstrong used their wealth, art and science in an ingenious way. What began as a modest country retreat quickly became one of the most technologically advanced homes of the Victorian age. With acres of land and over 40 miles of footpaths to explore up hills, around lakes, through woodland and gardens you'll definitely be spoilt for choice. | Other 3rd Party Photo: ©National Trust Images/John Millar
6. Dunstanburgh Castle
The castle was built at a time when relations between King Edward II and his most powerful baron, Earl Thomas of Lancaster, had become openly hostile. Lancaster began the fortress in 1313, and the latest archaeological research indicates that he built it on a far grander scale than was originally recognised. Unfortunately the earl failed to reach Dunstanburgh when his rebellion was defeated, and was taken and executed in 1322. Thereafter the castle passed eventually to John of Gaunt, who strengthened it against the Scots by converting the great twin towered gatehouse into a keep. The focus of fierce fighting during the Wars of the Roses, it was twice besieged and captured by Yorkist forces, but subsequently fell into decay. There are superb walks to Dunstanburgh from Craster and Embleton. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dunstanburgh-castle/ | JPIMedia Resell Photo: Jane Coltman