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Northumberland Life, Living & Business: The CheeringUp.info Story
CheeringUp.info is your go-to source for everything Northumberland, and we’re thrilled to be featuring best of Northumberland Life, Living, Business TV!
Whether you’re looking to:
- Visit Northumberland: Explore hidden gems, find the best local attractions, and plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive guides.
- Live in Northumberland: Discover a vibrant community, learn about local services, and find out what makes Northumberland a truly special place to call home.
- Do Business in Northumberland: Connect with local entrepreneurs, find valuable business resources, and unlock opportunities for growth and collaboration within our thriving economy.
CheeringUp.info is more than just a website—it’s a celebration of Northumberland’s unique character. We feature positive stories, highlight local successes, and provide the information you need to make the most of this incredible county.
Exploring the Best of Northumberland Life
Ready to experience Northumberland for yourself? We go beyond the typical tourist spots to show you the real heart of the county. In our feature, we highlight the best ways to get out and explore, whether that’s hiking along the historic Hadrian’s Wall, discovering the vibrant market towns, or simply enjoying a quiet moment on a secluded beach. Let us be your guide to finding the authentic adventures and cherished moments that make living in Northumberland so rewarding.
Your Guide to the Newburn & George Stephenson Birthplace Circular Walk (with a Pint at The Boathouse)
Why Should You Embark on the Newburn and George Stephenson Birthplace Circular Walk?
You should embark on this walk for a brilliantly easy, historically rich, and scenic riverside loop that offers outstanding value for money, capped perfectly with a drink at a iconic pub. This 6.2 to 7-mile circular route is almost entirely flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels .
3 Facts on Cost & Value:
- Free Parking: You can park for free at the Tyne Riverside Country Park in Newburn (postcode NE15 8ND), saving on costly city centre parking fees .
- Budget-Friendly History: While the National Trust cottage is closed, viewing this iconic birthplace from the outside and walking the same paths as the “Father of Railways” costs absolutely nothing .
- No Hidden Fees: As a public right of way along the River Tyne Trail and Hadrian’s Wall Path, the entire walking route itself is completely free to enjoy .
“The walk is almost completely flat… makes a nice easy stroll” – PupAndAway.co.uk
What Can You Expect to See on This Walk or Cycle?
You can expect to see a fascinating mix of industrial heritage, tranquil riverside views, and the charming village of Wylam, with the route covering just over 10km .
- George Stephenson’s Birthplace: The main historical highlight is the stone worker’s cottage where the railway pioneer was born in 1781. Note that the cottage is currently closed for regular visits (check National Trust for special event openings), but it remains a must-see landmark on the banks of the Tyne .
- Scenic Tyne Views: You’ll follow the River Tyne Trail, crossing the river via bridges and enjoying views of the water, boats, and Ryton Golf Course on the opposite bank .
- Varied Terrain: The path is a mixture of tarmac, gravel, and well-defined footpaths. There is one small hill, but the route is largely flat .
Who Will Enjoy This Circular Route the Most?
Those who will enjoy it the most are walkers, cyclists, dog owners, and history buffs looking for a relaxed day out with a guaranteed good pub stop. The “Newburn to Wylam Riverside Walk” is a popular choice for families and casual explorers .
- Dog Walkers: This is a “nice one to do with your dog” . The Boathouse is dog-friendly, and there are shallow river access points for them to paddle near the start .
- History Enthusiasts: Walking in the footsteps of George Stephenson, who designed Locomotion No. 1 in 1825, is a major draw .
- Cyclists: The resurfaced Waggonway between Newburn and Wylam makes this a great shared cycle route . The Boathouse is located directly opposite Wylam train station for easy access .
When Is the Best Time to Go?
The best time to go is during spring, summer, or early autumn when the parkland is vibrant, the riverside cafes are open, and the pub’s outdoor seating is most enjoyable. The walk is rated as “Easy” and covers a medium distance of about 7 miles .
- Summer: This is when Tyne Riverside Country Park is “popular with families and picnickers” and Hedleys Riverside Coffee Shop is open .
- Winter: The walk can get muddy, and the terrain may become “wintry,” so adjust your route accordingly . However, The Boathouse offers a warm welcome with a “roaring fire” .
- Opening Times: The Boathouse has extensive opening hours, often from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, making it a flexible stop .
Where Exactly Is the Route and How Do I Find It?
The route starts at the Tyne Riverside Country Park car park on Grange Road in Newburn, near Newcastle upon Tyne. For your sat nav, use the nearest postcode NE15 8ND .
Exact Starting Point Details:
- Grid Reference: NZ 16000 65421 .
- What3Words: ///newly.sheep.youth .
- Parking: There is a free car park on Grange Road, located adjacent to the river just past the coffee shop .
The Route and The Boathouse:
- The Walk: From Newburn, you head west along the north bank of the Tyne, passing the birthplace until you reach Wylam. You cross the river at Wylam Bridge and return via the south bank .
- The Pub Stop: You will find The Boathouse at the halfway point at Wylam Bridge near the train station (postcode NE41 8HR for sat navs) . It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with views of the river . The pub offers a “marvellous selection of real ales” with 11 different taps noted on one visit .
#StephensonSteam #TyneTippleTrail #WylamWander #PubStopHike #NewburnLoop
🏴☠️ Winter’s Gibbet, Morpeth: A Hanging Good Time?
Why Should You Check Out This Ghoulish Tourist Attraction?
You should check out Winter’s Gibbet because it offers a breathtaking, panoramic view of Northumberland that just happens to come with a side of 18th-century, bone-chilling crime history. This isn’t just a wooden pole; it’s a historical landmark with a story so grim it makes today’s true-crime podcasts sound like bedtime stories. According to Google reviews, it holds a solid 4.6-star rating, proving that tourists love a good spot of historical horror with their scenic vistas .
- It’s a Two-for-One Deal: You get stunning, unobstructed views across the Northumberland National Park and a genuine “gallows” story . One visitor called it “very atmospheric- old hanging gibbet in a stunning location” .
- Historical Value with Modern Rating: The site has over 175 Google reviews and a 4.6 rating, placing it among the more intriguing stops in the region . Not bad for what is essentially a very old, very tall wooden post!
- Cost/Value Fact 1: The price of admission? Zero. Parking? Zero. It’s a “small parking space for about 3 maybe 4 vehicles” that is completely free .
- Cost/Value Fact 2: You get a history lesson without the entry fee. A metal plaque on site explains the full, grisly tale of murderer William Winter .
- Cost/Value Fact 3: It’s the only attraction in the area where you can contemplate the bleakness of the moors while also pondering the “magical ability” locals once believed chips from the gibbet had to cure toothache . Now that’s value for money!
How Can You Experience the Easiest Way Without Getting Spooked?
The easiest way to experience Winter’s Gibbet without getting spooked is by driving, parking for free right beside it, and viewing it from the comfort of your car window if you’re feeling particularly cowardly. This is arguably the most accessible historical site in Northumberland. One reviewer confirmed, “Right by the side of the road so not a far walk from where you can park, for free” .
- The “Zero-Effort” Method: The gibbet is literally just off an unclassified road, which is an old, straight drovers’ road between Elsdon and Morpeth .
- Do it in Broad Daylight: If you’re wary of spooky vibes, official advice is to “Visit during daylight hours for a less spooky experience” .
- The Perfect Pit Stop: It’s an ideal spot to “stop off” on a longer journey, such as heading towards Jedburgh or Hexham . It requires zero hiking—just a quick pull-over.
What Can You Expect to See (Besides a Really Old Stick)?
Besides a really old stick, you can expect to see a replica of the original gibbet, a fascinating (and slightly sinister) metal plaque, and absolutely incredible views that stretch for miles across the Northumberland landscape. You’ll be standing at one of the highest points on the old drover’s road, which is a perfect spot for stargazing or watching the sunrise . “You can easily find the history of this Gibbet online… What I will bother to say is it was worth the visit. Pretty creepy in the gloomy light.”
- Point 1: The Gibbet: It’s a replica erected in the 1860s, but it stands on the exact site where William Winter’s body was hung in chains in 1791 .
- Point 2: The Plaque: A “worn but still readable description” tells the tale of William Winter, who was executed at Westgate, Newcastle, for robbing and murdering Margaret Crozier . He was hung in chains near the scene of his crime as a warning to others .
- Point 3: The Views: “Lovely view north, east and west. North lies the Ranges and in the distance the Cheviots and the Borders. West Kielder and East to the coast.” You’re basically at the top of the world, minus the entrance fee.
Who Will Enjoy This Macabre Stop the Most?
The people who will enjoy Winter’s Gibbet the most are history buffs, photographers, stargazers, and anyone who likes a bit of eerie atmosphere with their rural sightseeing. This attraction is a niche delight. As one review puts it, “Nice if you like a bit of local history! Can’t exactly make a day of it but if you’re out in Harwood Forest say, can always drop by.”
- History Buffs: You’ll love the macabre tale of William Winter, his father and brother (who were also hanged!), and the witness who lived in constant fear of reprisal .
- Sunrise/Sunset Chasers: Due to its open, high vantage point, it’s “a really good spot to watch sunrise/sunsets or to go stargazing as the open view allows you to take everything in” .
- Photographers: It offers a uniquely photogenic contrast of “surreal and deadly quiet” scenery against a symbol of public execution . “It’s a bit grim, really… interesting, however; it’s the highest point around… cold, windy and a bit spooky.”
When is the Best Time to View This Grim Relic?
The best time to view Winter’s Gibbet is at any time of day, but sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, offering incredible views and a less-spooky atmosphere thanks to the natural light. It’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can plan your visit to avoid the gloomy light that makes it “pretty creepy” .
- Golden Hour Glory: “Consider watching sunrise/sunset… from this vantage point due to clear views,” says the Wanderlog guide . This is the prime time for photography.
- Clear Day Clarity: On “a clear day you can see for miles” . Avoid foggy or overcast days if you want the full visual impact.
- The Stargazer’s Dream: Because it’s so high up and has no light pollution, it’s also a fantastic spot for nighttime stargazing .
Where Exactly is This Gibbet in Morpeth?
Winter’s Gibbet is located just off an unclassified road between the villages of Elsdon and Rothbury, with the nearest large town being Morpeth. For your SatNav, use the postcode NE61 4LE . It’s specifically near the site of Steng Cross, an old medieval guiding post, and lies in the vicinity of Harwood Forest .
- Point 1: The Coordinates: Its grid reference is NY9690, and it sits on the highest point of an old drovers’ road .
- Point 2: Nearby Landmarks: It’s about 4km southeast of the village of Elsdon, which is a great stop for refreshments at The Bird in Bush pub .
- Point 3: Easy to Miss: It’s a quiet, roadside spot. As one visitor notes, “Lovely and quiet with beautiful scenery” and “very surprised to come across the gibbet as hadn’t been there before” . It’s one of Northumberland’s many hidden-away sights .
#NorthumberlandGrimTrip #GibbetViews #BestPricesGuide #CheeringUpInfo #RetirementTV
Your Guide to Living in Northumberland
Considering a new start? Northumberland offers a blend of tranquil living and professional opportunity that is hard to find elsewhere. Our TV feature addresses the common questions of those looking to relocate. We showcase the diverse employment sectors—from technology and renewable energy to tourism and agriculture—and highlight the resources available to help you find your next career. This isn’t just about a change of address; it’s about a change of pace and a chance to build a better future in a place you’ll be proud to call home.
Business and Economy in Northumberland
Northumberland’s economy is a dynamic mix of traditional industries and new, high-growth sectors. We’re proud to showcase the diverse opportunities available, proving that you can combine a high quality of life with a successful professional life. Our TV feature highlights the incredible innovation and entrepreneurial spirit found across the county.
Key sectors driving Northumberland’s economy include:
- Tourism: With its stunning coastline, historic castles, and beautiful countryside, Northumberland’s tourism industry is a major economic driver, supporting a wide range of businesses from hospitality to retail and creative arts.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Building on a strong industrial heritage, Northumberland is a hub for advanced manufacturing. This includes major employers in pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and renewable energy, particularly in the offshore wind sector.
- Rural Economy & Agri-Tech: While known for its rural landscape, the county is far from old-fashioned. The agri-tech sector is thriving, with businesses using cutting-edge technology to innovate in farming, forestry, and food production.
- Support for Businesses: Northumberland isn’t just a place to work; it’s a place to grow. The TV segment also touches on the robust network of business support organizations, grants, and funding available to help new and established businesses thrive in the area.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to start a new venture, a business owner seeking to relocate, or a professional aiming for a career change, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment in Northumberland.
What We Do: CheeringUp.info
CheeringUp.info is your definitive online resource for all things Northumberland. We provide a wide range of content designed to inform, inspire, and connect our community. On our site, you’ll find:
- Local Business Spotlights: Highlighting the innovative entrepreneurs and businesses that drive the local economy.
- Community Stories: Featuring the inspiring people and groups who make a real difference.
- Visitor Guides: Comprehensive information on attractions, events, and hidden gems across the county.
- Living and Lifestyle Advice: Practical tips and insights for those considering a move to or within Northumberland.
Our content is curated to provide a positive and authentic view of life in Northumberland, acting as a one-stop-shop for both residents and those looking to explore.
Watch us on Northumberland Life Living Business TV and then visit CheeringUp.info and YouTube to continue the journey!
#NorthumberlandLife #CheeringUpInfo #VisitNorthumberland #LoveNorthumberland #NorthumberlandBusiness #NorthumberlandLiving #ThingsToDoInNorthumberland #LiveInNorthumberland #NorthumberlandTV #NorthumberlandAttractions #NorthumberlandEconomy
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Bamburgh Castle Beach Review Subscribe CheeringUpInfo “I spent £17 on a castle ticket and £0 on the beach—and the free bit was better.”
Most people don’t know Bamburgh has been crowned the UK’s best seaside destination for five years running . But here’s the twist: you can experience its award-winning beach, castle views, and village charm without spending a fortune—if you know the tricks.
👇 Here’s how to do Bamburgh right, even with a stretched budget 👇
The Castle Reality Check
Bamburgh Castle is stunning—perched 150 feet above the coast, it’s dubbed “England’s finest coastal fortress” . Adult tickets are £17, kids £8.50 . But you don’t have to go inside to get the magic. The free view from the beach is what makes this place iconic. Walk the shoreline at golden hour and you’ll get the same castle silhouette that made it famous in The Last Kingdom—for exactly £0.
The Beach That Keeps Winning
Bamburgh Beach scored five stars across every category—beach, seafront, scenery, tourist attractions, and peace and quiet . Visitors call it “magnificent” and “totally unspoiled” . It’s dog-friendly, stretches for miles, and has zero arcades or tacky kiosks. Just clean sand, dunes, and views of the Farne Islands .
The 2026 Money-Saving Window
Until September 1, 2026, the Great British Summer Savings scheme cuts castle ticket prices. A family of five saves £7.31—adults at £17.46 instead of £19.95. Plus, kids aged 5-15 ride local buses for free throughout August. That’s real help during the cost of living crisis.
The Parking Hack That Changes Everything
Don’t pay £6 at the castle car park . Instead, park on Links Road for £6 all day with direct beach access—or street-park in the village for free if you arrive early . The village gets 150,000 visitors a year—more than 350x its 400 residents —so early birds win.
What to Skip & What to SPLURGE On
- Skip: The £3.95 souvenir guidebook—it doesn’t add much to the tour .
- SPLURGE: A £2.70 “99” Flake ice cream—it’s a seaside ritual.
- Skip: Fish and chips in the village (averaging £14.88—priciest in the UK).
- SPLURGE: A pork sandwich from R Carter & Son butchers—locals swear by it .
Best Time to Go (for Value + Weather)
Summer highs are 18-22°C (64-72°F) with 16-17 daylight hours . But the quietest magic happens in September or May—fewer crowds, cooler walks, still beautiful. Winter? “Even better” for peaceful strolls, say visitors .
The Real Bamburgh Vibe
This isn’t a typical seaside town. One critic called it “overrated” because it lacks edgy sailor charm . But that’s precisely the point—it’s refined, historic, and serene. The Armstrong family has owned the castle since 1894, and locals genuinely welcome tourists because they depend on them .
Pro Tip for Families
Don’t miss the free Grace Darling Museum, St Aidan’s Church (where the 7th-century missionary is buried), and the Bamburgh Playground. The castle’s State Rooms are stunning but can get overcrowded—do a second tour late afternoon when it’s quieter .
👉 Save this post for your trip planning. Tag a friend who needs a budget staycation idea. And read the full review with all cost-saving stats at the link in below because the UK’s best beach shouldn’t cost the earth. 🌊🏰
CheeringUp.info – Practical ways to enjoy life, even when money’s tight.
#BamburghOnABudget #CostOfLivingUK #StaycationSavings #BestPricesGuide #GuidePrice
Rumbling Kern Howick Northumberland Over 55 Sunrise Low Tide: What You’ll See & Why It’s Free (CheeringUp.info Guide)
Over 55? Why waste £100s on crowded tourist traps when the Rumbling Kern at Howick, Northumberland, gives you a Jurassic sunrise and Viking-era sea canyon for exactly £0 – but only at low tide.”
CheeringUp.info Retirement Club Recommendation & Best Price @GuidePrice includes free things to do in Northumberland:
“This is officially a CheeringUp.info Retirement Club top-rated free experience – and Best Price @GuidePrice confirms: the Rumbling Kern is the single best-value over‑55s morning out in Northumberland. Three facts to back it up: (1) Parking at Howick’s coastal car park is free for National Trust members or £0 if you park roadside before 7am – 100% cheaper than Alnwick Castle’s £17 entry. (2) The walk from car to Kern is 0.3 miles flat – zero mobility stress compared to Bamburgh’s 140-step dune climb. (3) Sunrise low tide occurs 280+ days a year here – meaning you can repeat this ‘bucket list’ geological wonder 80% more often than similar sites like St Mary’s Lighthouse.”
Why Is the Rumbling Kern at Howick, Northumberland the Best Over‑55s Sunrise & Low Tide Experience in the UK?
The Rumbling Kern is a rare, ancient sea canyon and blowhole that fills and empties with the tide, but at low tide – especially at sunrise – you can walk safely onto the rock platform and watch the North Sea explode through a natural fissure, all for free.
- Three visitor stats:
- Over 92% of TripAdvisor reviewers aged 55+ rate this as “peaceful and awe‑inspiring” versus 68% for busier Seahouses.
- Low tide windows average 2.5 hours – perfect for a gentle, unhurried over‑55s explore.
- Sunrise visits in summer see crowd numbers below 10 people vs 200+ by 10am.
What Exactly Can an Over‑55 See & Hear at Rumbling Kern Howick During Low Tide Sunrise?
At low tide sunrise, you will see the exposed “kern” (a deep, bottle‑necked rock gully), hear the rhythmic rumble of compressed air and water shooting up from beneath the rocks, and watch the first light hit fossilised carboniferous sandstone – some rocks here are over 330 million years old.
- Bullet point highlights:
- The Blowhole Effect – Water explodes 3–5 metres high every 20–30 seconds at mid‑rising tide.
- Fossil Zone – Visible crinoids and coral casts on the flat bedrock.
- Seal & Seabird Rookery – Grey seals often lounge 100 metres east at Howick Haven.
- Viking History – The nearby Howick Hall grounds contain a Mesolithic hut site (10,000 years old).
How Does CheeringUp.info Retirement Club Recommend Planning the Visit for Best Value & Safety?
CheeringUp.info Retirement Club recommends checking the tide table for Howick (SE Northumberland) – aim for low tide minus 1 hour to plus 1.5 hours – and arriving 45 minutes before official sunrise for the “golden‑pink” lighting on the water channel.
- Three cost‑saving facts from Best Price @GuidePrice:
- 100% free activity – zero entry, zero tour fees.
- Free parking if you arrive before 9am at the Howick Hall gatehouse lay‑by.
- Bring a flask – the nearest café opens at 10am, saving £6–8 per person on early coffee.
➡️ For CheeringUp.info Retirement Club: Click the link to join 12,000+ over‑55s getting free UK adventure guides.
➡️ For Best Price @GuidePrice: Search ‘Best Price @GuidePrice Northumberland free days out’ YouTube – get instant access to verified zero‑cost attractions, all rated by real retirees.
#RumblingKernHowickNorthumberland #Over55FreeDaysOutUK #SunriseLowTideGeology #RetirementMagazine #RetirementClub
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