2-Bedroom Hot Tub House in Ulgham

Alnwick Castle is the seat of the Duke of Northumberland and has been home to the Percy family since 1307. It began as a Norman stronghold and grew into a major fortress on the Anglo-Scottish border. Inside the keep, the State Rooms include the Library, Drawing Room, Saloon, Dining Room and China Gallery. You can also walk the battlements and see the Victorian Great Kitchen.

Tip: Broomstick Training needs a time-slot ticket, and Alnwick Castle tickets don't include The Alnwick Garden, which has its own website.

Warkworth Castle is a ruined medieval castle in Northumberland, sitting in a loop of the River Coquet less than a mile from the coast. It was long the residence of the powerful Percy family, and the imposing keep was added in the late 14th century. English Heritage has cared for the site since 1984.

Tip: To visit the Hermitage, go to the castle first to secure your place, as tickets are limited and only sold on the day. Dogs are not allowed at the Hermitage.

Bamburgh Castle is a Grade I listed fortress on the Northumberland coast, built on a crag of volcanic dolerite above the North Sea. It covers nine acres of rocky plateau and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country.

Tip: Prams and pushchairs aren't allowed in the State Rooms, so bring a baby carrier; there is a free shuttle buggy from the on-site car park up the hill.

The Alnwick Garden is a contemporary garden in the heart of Northumberland, next to Alnwick Castle. It was revived at the turn of the 21st century after years of neglect, and is laid out around a central water cascade. You can lose yourself in the Bamboo Labyrinth, stroll the traditional Ornamental Garden and Rose Garden, or gaze at the Grand Cascade.

Tip: The Poison Garden is only visited on a guided tour, so check the garden's website for tour details before you go.

Washington Old Hall is a stone manor house in the heart of Washington village, cared for by the National Trust. It includes parts of the medieval home of George Washington's direct ancestors, and the family took its surname from here. The ground floor shows a 17th-century home, with carved oak furniture and a collection of Delft ware.

Tip: Free parking is available on The Avenue, right beside the property.

Beamish is a living, open-air museum on a 350-acre site in County Durham, telling the story of everyday life in the North East. Original, moved and replica buildings are staffed by costumed engagers, with live demonstrations and hands-on activities. Trams and buses carry you between the different areas.

Tip: Book your pass online before you visit for faster entry, and download the map to your phone or pick one up at the Entrance Building.

Chillingham Castle is a 13th-century fortress in Northumberland, listed Grade I. It stands on what was once the border between England and Scotland, and was repeatedly attacked and besieged. Edward I stayed here in 1298, and James I in 1617. Inside you can see its grand rooms, including the great hall, and walk through the gardens and grounds. There are lakes and a tearoom too.

The Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle upon Tyne is a natural history and ancient civilisations museum in a refurbished Victorian building. Entry is free, though donations are welcome, and the planetarium is an extra paid attraction.

Tip: For a quieter visit, go after 2.30pm on weekdays or on Sundays.