Exploring Corbridge: A day trip guide

Northumberland is a truly unique county, home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient castles, beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and rugged moorland. Its unspoilt coastline and stunning countryside are dotted with friendly market towns, brimming with history and tradition. One such gem is the picturesque village of Corbridge.

Used as a filming location and with a rich history, Corbridge is brimming with independent businesses—cafes, restaurants, pubs, traditional grocers, butchers, and delis, alongside artisan jewellers, bookshops, boutiques, and a fantastic cook shop!  Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or simply looking to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of rural England, Corbridge offers a unique and memorable day trip. If you’re staying in one of our beautiful Northumberland holiday cottages, you’re perfectly placed to explore this charming village.

Historical Corbridge - A Roman Town

Originally a Roman town, known as Corstopitum, Corbridge served as an important supply base for Roman soldiers stationed along Hadrian’s Wall. Today, you can visit the Corbridge Roman Town, (now in the care of English Heritage) a significant archaeological site in the area. Visitors can wander through the ruins of ancient streets, explore the granaries, and imagine life as a Roman soldier nearly 2,000 years ago. The site also has a museum, which is home to the ‘Corbridge Collection’ and Corbridge Hoard which includes a range of Roman artefacts, from tools to personal items, offering a fascinating insight into life during the Roman occupation of Britain.

But Corbridge’s history doesn’t end with the Romans. The village has been a thriving community through medieval times and into the present day. St. Andrew’s Church, for example, is a stunning medieval structure that has stood in the village for over a thousand years. Its unique blend of Norman and Gothic architecture is well worth a visit. The church hosts a variety of events throughout the year – one seasonal favourite has to be the annual Christmas Tree Festival – visit the church website for more information.  

Curious dog in the cafe

Cafés, Pubs, and Restaurants

After a day of exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat. Corbridge is home to a variety of cosy cafés, traditional pubs, and gourmet restaurants. For a relaxing afternoon, enjoy a cream tea at one of the local cafés, where you can sip tea and watch the world go by. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the village’s pubs offer hearty meals featuring locally sourced ingredients.
There’s plenty of great pubs including those with roaring fires in winter and beer garden in summer. For those seeking restaurants, there’s plenty of choice from classic British dishes to contemporary fusion meals.

Hadrians Wall in Northumberland

Exploring the Countryside

One of the best things about Corbridge is its location. Situated on the banks of the River Tyne, the village is surrounded by rolling countryside and is a fantastic base for walkers and nature lovers. You can take a leisurely stroll along the river or venture further afield into the surrounding hills. The nearby Hadrian’s Wall offers some fantastic walking routes, with stunning views of the countryside and the opportunity to explore Roman forts and other ancient sites.
For cyclists, Corbridge is also a great starting point for exploring the Northumberland countryside. The quiet roads and scenic trails make it ideal for a leisurely bike ride or a more challenging cycling adventure.

Stay in Our Holiday Cottages

If you’re planning a trip to Northumberland, Corbridge is a must-visit destination, and many of our holiday cottages are just a short drive away. From cosy cottages for couples to larger homes for family gatherings, our properties provide the perfect blend of comfort and charm, ensuring you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay. After a day exploring Corbridge’s history, shops, and countryside, you can return to the comfort of your holiday home and unwind in style.

Planning Your Northumberland Escape with
Wooden Star Cottages

Corbridge offers a fantastic destination for anyone visiting Northumberland.  Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Roman history, enjoy some retail therapy, or simply relax and take in the peaceful surroundings, Corbridge has something for everyone. And with Wooden Star Cottages as your home away from home, you’re perfectly placed to explore, learn, and relax in an area steeped in history.

Make your next Northumberland getaway extra special by staying in one of our handpicked holiday cottages, and be sure to include a visit to Corbridge on your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!