Otterburn is a chocolate-box village nestled in the Redesdale Valley. It’s set on the banks of the River Rede and is a great base to explore the picturesque Northumberland countryside. Hike in the rolling Cheviot Hills and visit the grass-covered field where the Battle of Otterburn took place in the 14th century. A poignant sandstone cross marks the site of the battle, which saw the English army defeated by the Scots.
Learn about the centuries-old art of wool production and weaving at Otterburn Mill. See original tools and machinery in the small museum and enjoy tea and scones in the café. The boutique is filled with authentic Otterburn Mill products, including feather-soft Pram Rugs. The first rug was ordered by Buckingham Palace in the 1920s to celebrate the birth of Queen Elizabeth II.
Stroll around the village and admire charming stone cottages and a beautiful church built in the 1800s. Stop at a country pub and fill up on Northumberland favourites like “pan haggerty” sliced potatoes cooked in a creamy cheese sauce. Wash it all down with a glass of honey-infused mead.
Getting there
Otterburn is compact and easy to navigate on foot. The village is in Northumberland, a 40-minute drive from Newcastle upon Tyne and one hour by bus. Newcastle International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.