Holiday houses in Northumberland and The Borders for large groups and parties

Holiday activities and sports to entertain guests staying in Northumberland and The Borders

When you holiday in Northumberland, it’s not just that you’ll not be short of anything to do, it’s just that you may have trouble finding the time to have a try at fitting everything in! Remember if your house part is large you will need to book in advance - especially for riding. Bikes can be hired - or bring your own! Some holiday houses offer bike stores too as this has become such a popular holiday activity in this area.

While there can be no denying that while Northumberland is one of the great outdoors for heritage, history and wildlife, it’s also a great place for participatory sports activities. And with the added advantage of a self-catering holiday in the area, you can come and go as and when you please without the worry of meeting meal deadlines or having somewhere to store your bicycle. And often your cottage or lodge owner will be more than happy to allow you and your guests to bring dogs.

While there is no doubt that the walker, golfer, wildlife enthusiast and angler will be able to enjoy Northumberland to the full, often overlooked are the opportunities for the cyclist and horse rider.

Cycling and mountain biking

In particular, the county’s wonderful challenging landscape and terrain is an absolute must for the mountain-biker. The trails at the Kielder Water and Forest Park are fast gaining international acclaim, not only for the exciting ascents, but for the dazzling views as you trail down from the famous Deadwater Fell summit, or, for the slightly less experienced, as you try out the Castlewood Skills Loop.

There are also a plethora of delightful open country bike routes as well as the established Coast and Castles or Hadrian’s Wall cycle routes. These are most suitable for those that want to simply take their family, friends or just their loved one on a tranquil bike ride, across the miles of safe country roads and car free tracks. You will also find quite a number of dedicated cycleways that will allow you to safely enjoy the striking scenery from the comfort of your saddle, and you’ll be able to drop in to welcoming cafés and inns along the way for a refreshment break.

Holiday accommodation sleeping 6-20 + guests with outdoor activities on the door step

Our editors 'top few' houses located within minutes of 'action and adventure' in Northumberland:

Sporting facilities close by:

Big house for a holiday in County Durham near Durham with 7 bedrooms, sleeps 15, Pet friendly, Pub within 1 mile, Cot Available.

View The Old School

Vacation retreat in County Durham near Durham with 5 bedrooms, sleeps 10, Pet friendly, Ground Floor Facilities, Pub within 1 mile, Cot Available.

View The Gingang -24969

Large country houses to rent in Northumberland near Alnmouth with 5 bedrooms, sleeps 8, Pet friendly, Pub within 1 mile, Cot Available.

View Littlecroft

Self catering for large groups in County Durham near Durham with 4 bedrooms, sleeps 8, Pet friendly, Barbecue, Ground Floor Facilities, Baby and Toddler Friendly, Cot Available, Swimming Pool.

View Durham Cottage-27765

Holiday home in Northumberland near Morpeth with 4 bedrooms, sleeps 8, No pets, Barbecue, Ground Floor Facilities, Golf nearby, Cot Available.

View Abbey Cottage

Large rental cottage in Northumberland near Wooler with 4 bedrooms, sleeps 8, Pet friendly, Golf nearby, Pub within 1 mile, Baby and Toddler Friendly, Cot Available.

View Graces Dairy

climbing and horse riding in Northumberland

For the climbing fraternity, there are numerous crags and rock faces ready and waiting to be scaled. The Callaly and Thrunton crags, as well as Drakestone, Linshiels, South Yardhope and Sandy Crag are well worth conquering, and the Simonside Hills, located near Rothbury are particularly worth noting, with Ravensheugh, Selby's Cover and of course Simonside itself providing a great challenge to the climber.

For those who like to climb without the worry of ropes and specialist equipment, there are many areas in the county where “bouldering” – safely climbing without ropes – is very popular. Again Rothbury has gained somewhat of an envious national and international acclaim with Ship Rock and Gimmerknowe.

Horse riders will know that Northumberland appeals to those of all abilities, whether novices or accomplished horseback aficionados. There are simply miles and miles of marked bridleways, picturesque country lanes and of course as much open countryside as anyone could wish for. Or, you may care to opt for a popular beach ride, with wonderful coastal view, very few people and certainly no traffic to be concerned about.

As is the case when walking, the Cheviot Hills and North Pennines offer the horse rider an unparalleled opportunity to get out and be as one with nature. The Pennines in particular have some excellent old railway trails that can be followed. And of course, you can be an English Cowboy and ties your horse outside a saloon – or at least an old English pub – for a half hour’s welcome break from the saddle. You’ll often find a large water bowl so that your trusty mount can enjoy some refreshment as well!