Belford lies 1 mile west off the A1 London to Edinburgh road, is approximately 15 miles south of the Scottish Boarders and is 3 miles from the coast. Apple Tree cottage is an excellent base from which to explore the area. North Northumberland is abundantly supplied with places of interest.

Dotted along the unspoiled North Northumberland Heritage coastline are the castles of Walkworth, Bamburgh, Dunstanburgh and the priory and castle of Holy Island.

There are excellent beaches located at Beadnell Bay, Lower Newton, Embelton Bay and Bamburgh.

Seahouse is the base for boat trips to the Farne Islands. (National Trust)

Walk to Dunstanburgh castle from Craster (home of the famous kippers!)

The surrounding country-side is ideal for those who like the outdoor life and within easy reach are the Cheviot Hills, the spectacular Coquet and Ingram Valleys and the Simonside Hills.

The historic market town of Alnwick with its cobbled streets and it’s well preserved Castle (Harry Potter connections) is well worth a visit.

Visit Alnwick Gardens (in the grounds of the castle) with it’s recently constructed ‘Tree House’ attraction.

The picturesque villages of Ford and Etal with Etal castle and museum (English Heritage), thatched pub and narrow gauge railway are worth a visit.

Visit Holy Island, only accessible at low tide via a causeway, and explore the history of Lindisfarne Priory.

Drive North to the border town of Berwick upon Tweed with it’s fortified walls.

From Alnwick drive West to Rothbury and the National Trust property of Cragside.