History and Hogwarts

Magical sunsets and storybook settings will delight you on a break in Northumberland

Northumberland is one of the most magical counties in the UK and offers so much that one visit is never enough.

For starters, there's the fabulous coastline. Take the resort of Bamburgh with its pretty town, beaches and medieval castle, once thought of as the finest castle in England. And head across to Lindisfarne and Holy Island (mind how you go, though, as the tide can cut you off, so always check tide times). The ruins of the abbey and castle are fascinating. It has a very good visitors' centre, so make sure that's where you begin.

Then there is Hadrian's Wall, another little bit of history from a millennia ago, which sports great views and great walks. A little further north, there's Durham and its magnificent cathedral, described as the finest Norman cathedral in the world.

For a modern take on things, head for Newcastle and the MetroCentre – everything you could possibly want to buy in one place. Another place you shouldn't miss is Alnwick Castle and its garden. Alnwick is the home of the Duke of Northumberland and is magnificent, but the Duchess's garden is the star attraction. She has set about restoring a derelict 12-acre walled garden, and it may still be a work in progress but it's beautiful.

Base yourself in a place of peace and luxury – Matfen Hall is a country house hotel with grand gardens, golf and an award-winning spa. You'll recognise both Matfen and Alnwick Castle from their roles as locations in the Harry Potter films.

A night at Matfen Hall costs from £175 for a double room.
Visit www.matfenhall.com

W&H EXCLUSIVE OFFER
Matfen Hall is offering a complimentary upgrade to a deluxe room with a seasonal fruit bowl and bottle of wine on arrival, when booking a two-night break.
Subject to availability until 31 August 2008.
Call 01661-886500; quote “w&h”.

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