Published On: Wed, Dec 17th, 2025
Travel | 3,737 views

UK’s most ‘underrated National Park’ is ‘pure magic’ | UK | Travel

A resident living alongside what she describes as “one of the most underrated National Parks in the UK” has urged travellers seeking a picturesque staycation to discover this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Steph Robinson claims the location is Britain’s most isolated and least frequented National Park, making it ideal for a weekend getaway free from tourist crowds.

“You’ve been to England, but have you been to Northumberland?” she posed in a TikTok video. “Here’s how to spend a few days in my favourite place… home.” Steph continued: “I’ve spent the last couple of years exploring Northumberland National Park and the surrounding area – and honestly, there is nowhere else like it.”

Geordie Steph then shared multiple images showcasing the region’s remarkable variety, from tranquil coastlines to forests, and the impressive Lambley Viaduct, stretching 260m across the River South Tyne. “We have more castles than anywhere else in England,” she proudly declared.

“Hills, wildlife, a stunning coastline, breathtaking sunrises – and it’s a dog-walking paradise, with pubs and friendly places to stay that welcome your furry friend.” She proceeded to spotlight the must-see destinations within her county that render it “pure magic”.

Bamburgh Castle

“The icon of Northumberland – you cannot visit without a beach walk past this beauty,” Steph enthused. “It’s just been voted the UK’s best seaside town [Bamburgh village] for the fifth year in a row.”

Holy Island

Also known as Lindisfarne, Steph described the tidal island that you can “only reach when the sea level lets you”. She declared: “It’s magical, eerie and cinematic and even featured in [2025 film] 28 Years Later.”

Cragside

“The most magical National Trust I have ever seen,” gushed Steph. “The first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity, plus endless gardens, lakes and trails to wander.” Meanwhile, for those who enjoy “chasing waterfalls”, Steph recommends visiting Hareshaw Linn, featuring a three-mile family-friendly trail that feels “straight out of a fairytale”.

Kielder Forest

Steph also championed Kielder Forest – England’s largest man-made woodland and location of Northern Europe’s biggest man-made reservoir. “There’s loads of pram and wheelchair-friendly routes too,” Steph noted. “And when night falls, this is where Northumberland really shows off as part of Europe’s largest dark sky protected park.”

Farne Islands

Located just offshore lies the uninhabited Farne Islands, which Steph characterises as “one of the best wildlife spots in the UK” thanks to its puffin population during summer months, alongside seals and seabirds throughout the year.

Windy Gale

Concluding, Steph remarked: “If you fancy a challenge, hike up Windy Gale, where you can literally stand with one foot in England and one in Scotland. Northumbria is full of magic – you just have to get out there and explore it.”

One TikTok user agreed with the travel writing in response: “Have travelled a lot, Northumberland is the best English county in my opinion. That is, until the masses realise what they have been missing all these years.

“A local humorously added: “Shh! Don’t tell everyone. Let’s keep our beautiful secret.” A third person declared: “I love Northumberland. Thank you for this fabulous post.

Whilst a fourth TikTok user exclaimed: “Done all these! I’d add Dunstanburgh Castle (ruin) walk, Housesteads Roman fort on Hadrian’s Wall, Hindhope Linn and Humbleton Hillfort near Wooler. Beautiful places.”.