The Tankerville Arms Hotel is in Wooler, a pretty town that sits right beside the Northumberland National Park. It’s the perfect location from which to explore Northumberland and the Borders.
A stroll around the town
Firstly you should admire the hotel itself. It was built in the 17th Century by the Earl of Tankerville to accommodate guests he couldn’t fit into his own home, Chillingham Castle! Then why not take a walk along the riverside and let your dogs have a romp, or wander through the town to enjoy its pretty architecture. You’ll be able to find good food along the way, or just an ice cream if you’re saving yourself for a Tankerville dinner!
Cheviot Hills
Wooler is sometimes referred to as the Gateway to the Cheviots and is popular with walkers, cyclists, riders and nature lovers. The Cheviots are minutes from the centre – just go up to Wooler Common and you’re on your way.
St Cuthbert’s Way
Wooler also sits on St Cuthbert’s Way a walking route which links Melrose in the Scottish Borders, where St. Cuthbert started his religious life in 650AD, with Holy Island off the Northumberland Coast, his eventual resting place.
Gefrin
Gefrin, just outside Wooler, was the home to the 7th Century Anglo Saxon Kings of Northumberland who lived in a great timber hall here and were notable as being the last of the Anglo-Saxon chiefs to stand their ground against the Norman invaders. Find out more here. Gefrin also lends its name to the new distillery and visitor centre being built in Wooler – AdGefrin. Find out more here.
Yeavering Bell
Yeavering Bell, once the largest Iron Age hillfort in the region, sits on a twin-peaked hill just to the west of Wooler. You can climb to its summit and, once you’ve caught your breath, explore within the surviving massive stone ramparts.
Chillingham Castle, Cattle and Ghosts!
Just to the South of Wooler you can visit Chillingham Castle, with its wild cattle, extraordinary history and jolly nice tea! It is also reputed to be haunted if you’re in the mood to be spooked.
Heatherslaw Light Railway
Just to the North of Wooler in the Ford and Etal Estates, you can take a ride on the Heatherslaw Light Railway, a fun outing with the kids. Find out more here.
These are just a few of the local sights, don’t forget our other blogs for more detailed information on castles, golf, walking, kids activities and art trails.
