The waters along the stunning coastline are home to seals, dolphins and a wide array of sea creatures, while vast areas of unspoilt countryside are home to ospreys, red squirrels and much more. If you’re looking for something a little more unusual is what you’re looking for, lemurs, meerkats and other exotic animals and birds can be found in the county’s zoos. Here is a flavour of what Northumberland has to offer…
13. Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre
The officially licensed Birds of Prey Centre is set in the heart of beautiful Kielder Water and Forest Park, the only place in Britain with dark sky status. Photo: Forestry Commission
14. Roseate terns on Coquet Island
Coquet Island, off Amble, is the only site left in the UK where you can still find a breeding colony of roseate terns. A timid bird by nature, they are especially vulnerable to bad weather, predators and any variation in the availability of food. Photo: NOP
15. Andy Howey's Birds of Prey and Reptiles Centre, Haggerston
Andy Howey’s Birds of Prey Centre offers an educational, interactive and hands-on experience with a range of birds of prey, reptiles and creepy crawlies! It's home in the grounds of Haggerston Castle. Falconer Andy Howey is pictured, left. For bookings, call 07882 084178. Photo: Submitted
16. Alpacas
There are three centres that specialise in alpacas in Northumberland: Barnacre Alpacas, at Heddon on the Wall, run by Debbie and Paul Rippon (https://barnacre-alpacas.co.uk/); Ferny Rigg Alpacas, near Bellingham (https://www.fernyriggalpacas.co.uk/); and Fallow Field Alpacas, near Hexham (tel 01434 681276). Photo: TR