The Most Impressive National Trust Gardens You Must See in Northumberland

Debby
Aug 12
5 min read

Love beautiful gardens, peaceful walks and a touch of history? These breathtaking National Trust gardens in Northumberland will leave you speechless and inspired.

Northumberland isn’t just wild moorland and castles. It’s also home to some of the most impressive and lovingly kept gardens in the country. From Victorian engineering marvels to tranquil woodland paths filled with rare plants, these gardens are ideal for peaceful days out and unforgettable photo opportunities.

In this blog, I’ll share with you my three favourite National Trust and historic gardens in Northumberland. Each has its own unique story and style, and each offers something very different, whether you’re a serious garden lover or just enjoy a scenic walk and a good slice of cake.

I’ll share my personal experiences, tips for getting the most from your visit, and some fascinating history behind each site. Let’s explore the green heart of Northumberland.

*One of the three tranquil lakes on Cragside Estate*

Cragside – The World’s First Electrically Lit House with Incredible Gardens

Cragside is one of the most awe-inspiring places in Northumberland. Built by Victorian inventor Lord Armstrong, it was the first house in the world to be powered by hydroelectricity. But for me, it’s the gardens that steal the show.

Set in 1,000 acres of engineered landscape, the gardens at Cragside include formal terraces, rocky ravines, ornamental lakes, and woodland paths that seem to go on forever. The rhododendrons in late spring are absolutely spectacular. You feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.

*You can easily spend a full day walking the miles of pathways around Cragside*

There’s also a beautiful Iron Bridge and a vast network of walks that lead to hidden viewpoints. If you love nature and innovation, this place is like stepping into a steampunk dream.

Throughout the year Cragside hosts regular events, many of which are children and family focused, encouraging young adventures to explore the great outdoors and get close up to nature.

Top Tip: Take the circular walk around Tumbleton Lake. It’s relatively easy and gives you some of the best views of the estate.

Useful Information Points:

Parking: On-site, free with admission
Dog Friendly: Yes, on leads in gardens
Opening Times: Typically 10am – 5pm (check website for seasonal changes)
Admission Charges: Adults £25, Children £12.50 (free for NT members)
Child Friendly: Yes, lots of space to explore, there is also a large play park
Facilities: Toilets, gift shop, play areas
Café: Yes, serving hot meals, snacks and cream teas

*You never know who you might meet at Cragside*

Wallington – A Walled Garden Wonderland with Wild Woodland Walks

Wallington is a true Northumberland gem, offering an elegant combination of formal gardens, parkland and rich family history. Once the home of the Trevelyan family, the estate now belongs to the National Trust and has become a haven for walkers, families and garden lovers.

The highlight is the beautiful walled garden, tucked away in a hidden valley and bursting with colour from spring through autumn. The Edwardian greenhouse, herbaceous borders, and pergola-covered pathways make this a dream location for garden lovers and photographers alike.

*The walled garden at Wallington in its Autumn colours*

But Wallington is more than just flowers. The wider estate includes riverside walks, dragon-themed playgrounds, and red squirrel trails. I love visiting here on crisp autumn days when the colours are vivid and the estate feels quiet and timeless.

Four striking dragons’ heads lie on the lawn in front of the grand house. These magnificent carved stone sculptures are believed to be part of a group that once adorned Bishopsgate, proudly guarding an entrance to the City of London. They have been in place at Wallington since 1928.

Top Tip: Don’t miss the clocktower at the visitor centre. It chimes on the hour and adds a real sense of place to your arrival.

Useful Information Points:

Parking: On-site, included in admission
Dog Friendly: Yes, on leads, but not allowed in the house
Opening Times: 10am – 5pm (check for updates)
Admission Charges: Adults £20, Children £10 (free for NT members)
Child Friendly: Very – excellent for families
Facilities: Toilets, baby changing, shop, play area
Café: Yes – hot food, light bites and good coffee

*The four dragons' heads guarding Wallington Hall*

Howick Hall Gardens – The Ancestral Home of Earl Grey Tea

Howick Hall is not part of the National Trust, but it’s one of the most impressive gardens in Northumberland and well worth a visit. Famous as the home of Earl Grey himself (yes, the tea), this historic estate offers a more peaceful, botanical experience than the grander estates. The gardens are beautifully naturalistic and reflect a love for wild planting and biodiversity. There’s something incredibly soothing about walking through the arboretum, listening to the birds and watching bees in the long borders.

*An impressive house with equally as impressive gardens*

The sensory garden is designed to engage all five senses and is a lovely spot for slow exploration. There are also woodland walks that lead down to the sea if you fancy combining your garden visit with a little coastal escape.

*Leading into the sensory gardens at Howick Hall*

Top Tip: Don’t leave without having a proper Earl Grey tea in the tearoom and a slice of Earl Grey tea loaf. It’s brewed from a blend created just for the house. You can also buy an assortment of Earl Grey related gifts from the shop, including tea towels, tea cups, and of course Earl Grey tea. Useful Information Points:

Parking: Free with admission
Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed
Opening Times: March to November, 10:30am – 5pm
Admission Charges: Adults £12.10, Children 5- 16 £3.85
Child Friendly: Yes
Facilities: Toilets, plant sales, gift shop and seating areas
Café: Earl Grey Tearooms – traditional afternoon tea available

*Looks out for the wildlife at Howick Hall*

Final Thoughts and What’s Next Northumberland Adventure?

I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering these three beautiful Northumberland gardens. Whether you love history, horticulture or simply finding quiet, inspiring places to explore, each one offers a unique experience.

If you enjoyed this blog, you might also like my “5 Top Tips for Planning the Ultimate Northumberland 250 Road Trip” or “The Northumberland Dickensian Villages That You’re Going to Fall in Love With” posts. You can find them here on the blog.

Join our Northumberland 250 Adventures Group for local tips, weekly travel inspiration, and recommendations you won’t find in the guidebooks. Meet other travellers and share your own stories and photos too. Join us at: Northumberland 250 Adventures | Facebook

Planning your Northumberland escape? Don’t forget to grab a copy of our 377-page full-colour road trip guide packed with the best gardens, castles, walks, villages and hidden gems. It’s the perfect companion for your next adventure. Get your copy here..