With so much to see and do across the region, travelling by coach is the perfect way to explore Northumberland. You can sit back and relax as you watch the beautiful scenery go by before stopping off to visit some of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks, destinations and attractions.
Here at Visit Northumberland, we have a whole host of travel tips, and today’s guide is all about planning an unforgettable coach holiday in Northumberland.
Why explore Northumberland by coach?
One of the best things about Northumberland is its transport options. There’s something for everyone — whether you’re hiking, cycling, or driving. For those looking for a more hands-off mode of transport, coaches provide the perfect solution.
You can pre-book day trips with dedicated coach companies who can pick you up from and drop you off in an array of exciting locations. Or, you can go the DIY route and hop on local buses as you wish.
Either way, getting around Northumberland by bus takes the stress out of travelling. It’s also ideal for large groups — you can all relax and spend time together as you go from A to B.
Where to start your coach holiday in Northumberland
Several coach companies in Northumberland offer curated holidays with a full itinerary. They can collect visitors from a range of pick-up points across the UK and may even provide accommodation.
You also have the option to plan a more independent trip. Planning your own group travel in Northumberland is straightforward, thanks to its well-connected roads and great public transport options. It also gives you the chance to tailor your coach holiday so you can enjoy the Northumberland visitor attractions that appeal most to you.
Choosing a place to stay
You might like to choose a hotel or bed and breakfast in a single location and use it as a base for day trips by coach. Alternatively, you could travel across the region, staying in a variety of Northumberland’s beautiful towns and villages. Either way, we recommend exploring places to stay in Northumberland to help you find the ideal starting point.
Here are a few top accommodation options:
Other stand-out places to stay throughout your Northumberland coach holiday include:
-
Stable Cottage — a cosy home-from-home in the coastal town of Craster. This cottage has room for four people, and you can easily hop on a bus or coach to destinations such as Alnwick and Amble from here.
-
Battlesteads — a multi-award winning hotel in charming Hexham. From here, you can plan coach trips across Northumberland.
-
Burradon Farm Houses and Cottages — with 12 cottages, each sleeping up to eight people, this is the ultimate base for larger groups. You can easily access top locations such as Morpeth and Hexham by bus or coach.
Must-visit destinations during your Northumberland coach holiday
Wherever you start your trip from, you’re sure to find plenty of incredible places to visit in Northumberland. If you need a little inspiration, here are some of our favourite itinerary additions for the most memorable Northumberland coach trips.
Coach tours to Hadrian's Wall
If you’re travelling from outside of Northumberland, Hadrian’s Wall can’t be missed. However, it’s an equally exciting day trip for locals. Stretching across 73 miles, this feat of Roman construction showcases some of the UK’s most awe-inspiring scenery. No matter which part of the wall you visit, it will be worth it.
Hop on the AD122 Hadrian's Wall Country Bus from Hexham or start your trip from Haltwhistle — the 185 service runs three times a day from Monday to Saturday.
These bus and coach trips can drop you off at the Roman Army Museum, Birdoswald Roman Fort, and a range of other Roman forts along Hadrian’s Wall.
Coach trips to Bamburgh
Bamburgh is another great destination for Northumberland coach tours. Explore Bamburgh Castle, stop for a bite to eat at The Potted Lobster, and take in the breathtaking sea view as you wander along the pristine beach.
There are regular Arriva bus services to Bamburgh from nearby towns and villages, making it an accessible day out.
Coach trips to Lindisfarne
Several operators run coach trips to the stunning island of Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island) — including Border Buses, from Berwick-upon-Tweed. Enjoy the incredible views as you’re driven along the causeway, then explore the tranquil Monastic buildings of the ancient Lindisfarne Priory.
Keep your eye out for a variety of Northumberland’s wildlife, including seals, puffins and a whole host of coastal birds.
Northumberland coach tours to remember forever
Whichever destinations you plan to visit, you can easily travel around Northumberland by bus and coach. This type of getaway lets you see more of the local area without the stress of having to drive.
Whether it’s a big birthday celebration with friends, a family reunion, or a couple’s break, plan a coach holiday and see all this wonderful region has to offer. From accommodation and restaurants to activities, arranging your dream holiday is easy with Visit Northumberland.