Planning Your Northumberland Holiday? Start with our Map of Cottage locations
Northumberland is one of the largest counties in England. Stretching from the Scottish Borders down towards the edge of the North Pennines and from the Cheviot Hills across to the North Sea. It’s a county of wide-open countryside, historic market towns, and iconic landmarks like Hadrian’s Wall. With so much to see and do, choosing the right base for your stay can make a huge difference in shaping your holiday. To help with planning, we’ve created a handy map showing all our properties across the county, from off-grid hideaways for couples to large family homes and unique treehouse retreats.
Whether you’re planning a quiet escape in the woods, a multi-generational family gathering, or a break near a bustling town with cafés and shops, the map makes it easy to see at a glance what’s on offer and where. It’s a useful tool for planning around nearby attractions, walking routes and places to unwind — helping you start imagining the experiences your holiday could include even before you book.
Location, Location, Location
Each area of Northumberland has something different to offer and our map helps you explore this beautiful area. The map pinpoints the spread of cottages across the county – to help you choose a location. If you’re unsure of what type of holiday to focus on, one starting point might simply be – ‘What kind of setting do I want to wake up in’?
A stay in Hexham, for example, places you close to all amenities while still being a short drive from Hadrian’s Wall, Roman forts, and the Tyne Valley’s historic villages. In contrast, a property in the north of the county, near Bellingham for example, is further into the countryside and offers wide open landscapes, dark skies perfect for stargazing, and a feeling of peace and space. Both provide different but equally appealing ways to experience a Northumberland holiday.
Remote Escape or Walk-to-the-Pub Convenience?
Choosing your Northumberland cottage base often comes down to the kind of break you want.
For a remote escape…Northumberland has no shortage of secluded locations. Winding country lanes, rolling hills, and peaceful valleys make these cottages ideal for switching off, stargazing, and truly unwinding. Shops and restaurants might require a short drive, but for many guests, that’s part of the appeal — a chance to disconnect and enjoy the tranquillity.
For convenience…Cottages in market towns or near villages offer a different pace. You can step out for a coffee, browse independent shops, or enjoy a meal in a nearby pub without needing the car. They also benefit from better transport links, making it easy to explore larger cities, like Newcastle or Carlisle by train. These locations suit multi-generational stays, shorter breaks, or guests who prefer having amenities within walking distance.
Neither option is better — it simply depends on the kind of break you’re after. The map helps you weigh this up visually, so you can see which properties suit your preferred balance of peace and convenience.
A Northumberland Holiday is full of diversity
The county’s diversity is part of its charm. Our cottages make perfect bases to explore everything Northumberland offers. From most of our cottages, a 20–30 minute drive can take you from quiet countryside to historic towns, from woodland trails to the coast — making day trips simple and flexible.
Exploring the Northern Countryside: Bellingham and Kielder
If you’re drawn to quiet countryside, wide open skies, and easy access to walking and cycling routes, the northern part of Northumberland around Bellingham and Kielder is a fantastic choice. Here, our properties offer a range of options, from cosy cottages to large houses suitable for multi-generational groups.
The Steadings & Byres – There are several properties at this location which can be booked individually (from 2 people) or as a larger exclusive hire sleeping up to 12 people.
Charlton Gate – (sleeping 4) and The Stables, (sleeping 6) are located within the Newton Estate and offer stunning views of the sweeping countryside.
The Coach House (sleeping 6) and Greystead Church (sleeping 8) can also be booked together to provide accommodation for larger groups.
Nearby Fieldhead offers an off-grid escape for 2, whereas Hollin House is ideal for those looking for a larger retreat as it sleeps 10, perfect for families or friends coming together for a longer break.
This part of Northumberland is quiet and restorative, yet still within reach of the villages of Falstone and Bellingham, where you’ll find cafés, independent shops, and a local pub or two. The area is also perfect for outdoor adventures — from cycling along country lanes to hiking trails through the forests and hills – and of course Kielder nearby — together with some of the darkest skies in England, stargazing here is an experience not to be missed.
Greystead Old Church – Sleeps 8 – near Kielder Water
Historic Market Town Stays: Hexham
For those who want a stay with amenities close at hand, Hexham is an excellent choice. This historic market town offers cafés, independent shops, pubs, and easy access to cultural and historic sites, making it ideal for weekend breaks, couples’ escapes, or larger group stays.
Our properties in and around Hexham include:
Hexham House Apartments – seven stylish apartments accommodating 2–4 guests, including a penthouse bridal suite, perfect for weddings or special celebrations.
Seal Cottage – a charming cottage sleeping up to 5, ideal for families or small groups.
Farriers Cottage – comfortably sleeps 6 and provides a cosy base from which to explore the town and surrounding countryside.
A stay in Hexham lets you enjoy amenities on your doorstep, including walking to cafés, restaurants, pubs, browsing local shops and easy access to nearby historic sites or walking routes. At the same time, you’re just a short drive from the open countryside of the Tyne Valley and the wider Northumberland region, making it easy to combine town-based convenience with outdoor adventures.
A Rural Hideaway Near Bardon Mill
For couples seeking something smaller and more intimate, we also have a charming Bastle House near Bardon Mill. Sleeping two, it’s a cosy retreat tucked into the countryside, offering a peaceful escape while still being within easy reach of local villages, Hadrian’s Wall, and scenic walking routes. This property is perfect for romantic breaks, quiet weekends, or anyone looking to immerse themselves in Northumberland’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Spacious Group Stays Across the County
For larger gatherings, special occasions, or multi-family holidays, we also have a collection of spacious properties spread across beautiful rural settings, including the impressive and imposing Beaufront Castle just outside Hexham. Further afield are several properties located in stunning countryside such as the group of properties at Roses Bowers, Shellbraes Farmhouse and Studio, West Grange Hall and Cottage and near Alnwick Abbeylands House. These homes are ideal for bringing people together — whether that’s a milestone birthday, a walking weekend with friends, or a long-overdue family reunion.
These properties are located in peaceful countryside but within reach of local villages and key attractions. As they are larger holiday homes, they offer generous living spaces, well-equipped kitchens for shared meals, and comfortable bedrooms designed with relaxation in mind.
Abbeylands near Alnwick
Inspiration at your fingertips
Planning your holiday starts with finding the right base. With our cottage map, you can see all our properties in one place, compare locations, and imagine your ideal break.
At Wooden Star Cottages, we focus on properties that offer comfort, character and flexibility to make your stay special. Luxurious bedding, log fires, thoughtful touches and beautiful surroundings help turn any break into a memorable experience.
We’re always here to help so please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we can find your perfect stay.
Wooden Star Cottages offers the perfect base to experience the beautiful county of Northumberland. Book your stay at Wooden Star Cottages today and prepare for an unforgettable escape into the heart of one of England’s most beautiful regions.