This ‘classically picturesque’ village has a violent past that makes it a must-visit for history buffsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Norham Castle ranks among ‘the finest sights in the border country'(Image: ncjmedia)
Summer may be at its end, but the breathtaking beauty and vibrant history of Northumberland isn’t going anywhere – making it one of the top choices for a staycation at any time of year. And for those seeking a peaceful getaway, one “classically picturesque” village less than 90 minutes’ drive away from Newcastle could be the answer.
Norham is one of the most northerly villages in the country, just seven miles from the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with a vivid and violent past that led to it famously being described as “the most dangerous place in England” by Sir Walter Scott. Today it’s still home to the ruins of the castle that was once one of the most important strongholds in the country, as well as shops, eateries, events and places to stay.
One such place is 46 Castle Street, which lies just minutes from the very castle that put Norham on the map centuries ago. Priced from £580 for a seven-night stay, this two-bedroom cottage has room for up to four guests and a small dog, and is described by Sykes Holiday Cottages as “ideal for families or couples looking for a relaxing break away”.
With bookings open now for the winter months, this stone-built cottage has been praised as “cosy and welcoming” by its guests, who particularly loved its “beautiful” location. As well as having a castle on its doorstep, it lies just five minutes away from the River Tweed, spelling the opportunity for picturesque riverside walks, and there’s a bus route that runs regularly up to Berwick.
Fellow UK holiday let agency holidaycottages.co.uk also offers a couple of options when it comes to places to stay in Norham, including Borders Cottage just outside the heart of the village which is priced from £505 for seven nights, and Bow Well Lodge, which is also located on the street leading up to the castle with prices starting from £637 for seven nights. Both of these stays have room for up to four guests, although only Borders Cottage is dog-friendly.
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46 Castle Street is described as a ‘really beautiful’ place to stay in Norham just minutes away from the castle(Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)
Meanwhile, the top-rated place to stay in Norham over on Airbnb is Reivers Retreat, which also has room for up to four guests from £533 for a five-night stay and has earned a stellar rating of 4.98 based on 100 reviews from visitors. Or for those who prefer to stay in a hotel, the number one choice according to Booking.com reviews is The Victoria Hotel, which is also home to a pub and bistro.
Back at 46 Castle Street, one guest who stayed there for a festive break last December said: “It was so cosy and welcoming when we arrived. There was a welcome hamper, the fire was ready to be lit and the Christmas tree lights were on. The cottage was beautifully decorated and had everything we needed.”
Another visitor wrote in their review: “We had a wonderful stay in this Norham Cottage. Being so close to the Scottish border you have the opportunity to explore both Scotland and England which was nice. We particularly loved the wood burning stove which we used regularly through our stay.”
A third person praised: “A really beautiful cottage in a beautiful village. The cottage could not have been better equipped, was comfortable, clean and cheerful. We were greeted by a lovely welcome pack and fresh flowers. People in the villages were very friendly and welcoming and the local pub, The Mason Arms, was excellent for food and drink at very reasonable prices!”
And someone else said: “A lovely property, spacious and immaculately clean with lots of charm and everything you could ever need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. This was a great base for exploring the local area. We will definitely be back!”
As a must-visit for anyone staying in or visiting the village, Norham Castle is managed by English Heritage and it’s free to enter. However, visitors should be aware that some sections are currently closed off to the public to allow for conservation works and it closes for the winter season at the end of October.
The charity describes this fortress as “among the finest sights in the border country”, which centuries ago was also the stronghold most frequently attacked by the Scots, making it a fascinating piece of history to uncover. And there’s plenty more for the avid history buff over in nearby Berwick, from wandering the Elizabethan town walls and remains of the medieval Berwick Castle to exploring the town’s 18th century gaol.