5 Unmissable Attractions Near Hesleyside Huts in Northumberland
Located in the heart of the Northumberland National Park, Hesleyside Huts offer a luxurious glamping escape on a sprawling 4,000-acre estate. The beautiful shepherd’s huts, treehouses and cabins combine rustic character with modern comforts, like wood-fired hot tubs and cosy interiors, making them the perfect base for adventure and relaxation.
Surrounded by ancient woodlands and rolling hills, the huts offer a peaceful retreat under Europe’s largest protected dark sky area. Beyond the estate, Northumberland’s wild landscapes and fascinating history are waiting to be explored. From hiking across the moors to stargazing under endless night skies, the region is full of unforgettable experiences. Here are five nearby attractions, each offering a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty, heritage, and outdoor adventures.
1. Hareshaw Linn Waterfall
Hareshaw Linn is a picturesque waterfall with a 30-foot drop and is the highlight of a scenic two-mile woodland walk starting from Bellingham village – about 1.5 miles from Hesleyside Huts. The trail winds through a lush gorge, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, where you’ll spot rare ferns, lichens, red squirrels, and birds like woodpeckers and warblers.
It’s an easy, family-friendly hike with wooden bridges and stepping stones, ideal for nature lovers. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the falls, where the mist creates a fairy-tale atmosphere. In spring there’s beautiful wildflowers, while autumn brings a riot of colours. Birdwatching enthusiasts will love the tranquillity—it’s a spot to truly unplug and reconnect with the wild.
2. Kielder Water & Forest Park
A 10-15 mile drive northwest, is the sprawling 250-square-mile park which is home to Europe’s largest man-made lake and working forest. Sail, kayak, or water-ski on the reservoir, or try archery and zip-lining at the Calvert Trust Adventure Centre. The park’s dense pine forests offer cycling trails and walking paths, including routes to stunning viewpoints.
Wildlife like ospreys, deer, and wild goats roam here, and the minimal light pollution makes it a stargazer’s paradise, complementing Hesleyside’s dark skies. With mountain biking tracks for all levels and year-round activities—watersports in summer, crisp hikes in winter—this park embodies Northumberland’s untamed spirit.
3. Housesteads Roman Fort (Hadrian's Wall)
Just 9.4 miles southeast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site along Hadrian’s Wall offers a glimpse into Roman life from AD 122. Wander the ruins of barracks, hospitals, and granaries perched on a dramatic ridge with panoramic views.
The wall itself offers invigorating walks along craggy paths, evoking ancient soldiers patrolling the empire’s frontier. Nearby Walltown Crags provide quieter vistas. Interactive exhibits bring the past to life, detailing daily Roman routines. Combine it with a picnic amid heather-covered hills for a memorable outing blending history and epic scenery.
4. Chesters Roman Fort
Located 10 miles east, this well-preserved cavalry outpost by the River North Tyne showcases Roman grandeur. Explore bathhouses with underfloor heating, commander’s quarters, and a museum housing artifacts like altars and jewelry.
Set in picturesque parkland, the fort feels like a step back in time, with interactive elements and a tearoom for hearty lunches. Less rugged than Housesteads, it’s perfect for a relaxed historical visit. Pair it with a riverside stroll to explore Britain’s ancient roots in a stunning setting.
5. Bellingham Heritage Centre
A mere 1.2 miles away in Bellingham village, is a museum in a former railway station which celebrates the region’s industrial heritage, from iron mining to border reiver clans.
Exhibits include vintage tools, photographs, and stories of local life. It’s compact yet informative, with a gift shop selling artisan crafts. Learn about the area’s turbulent past, including feuds and folklore, before grabbing a coffee at a nearby cafe. It’s a great rainy-day option or quick cultural fix, highlighting how history shapes today’s Northumberland.
Hesleyside Huts
Northumberland is an ideal destination for explorers of all kinds, offering peaceful woodland trails, historic Roman sites, and breath-taking lakeside adventures.
From cascading waterfalls to ancient ruins, the region’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage make it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers. After a day of discovery, return to the cosy comfort of Hesleyside Huts, where you can unwind in a wood-fired hot tub under starlit skies, recharging for your next adventure.
Plan your trip now and experience the north’s timeless magic!
To book your stay, visit www.hesleysidehuts.co.uk or call 01434 220243.
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