The Laidly Worm of Bamburgh
One of Northumberland’s most magical tales tells of a princess transformed into a dragon by her jealous stepmother. Walk the paths around Spindlestone Heugh and imagine knights, curses, and enchanted hillsides in a landscape that still whispers legend.
The Lambton Worm
Said to haunt the River Wear, this serpent of folklore continues to inspire riverside walks and storytelling for families. Trace the winding waters and picture the battles that once brought the legend to life.
The Brown Man of the Muirs
Guardian of the Cheviot Hills, the Brown Man is a spirit of the wild, protecting the balance of nature. As you tread these rolling uplands, the quiet beauty of the moors feels alive with mystery.
Alnwick Garden Festival
A joyful celebration of flowers, crafts, and heritage. With music, storytelling, and colourful displays, this family-friendly festival captures the beauty of the seasons.
Hadrian’s Wall Festival
Step back in time with Roman reenactments, guided walks, and living history events. This festival connects visitors to the landscapes that once shaped an empire.
Bamburgh Castle Medieval Festival
Knights, jousting, and costumed performers bring medieval Northumberland to life. A day of history, spectacle, and family fun set against the dramatic castle backdrop.
Northumbrian Smallpipes
Unique to the region, these pipes carry the soulful sound of Northumberland. Visitors can often hear them played at festivals and cultural events.
Morris Dancing
A lively tradition of rhythm and colour, Morris dancers still perform at fairs and gatherings across the county.
Border Ballads
Songs of love, loss, and battle – ballads that echo the county’s turbulent history are still performed in local halls and heritage sites.
Northumberland Folk Music Society
Preserving traditions through concerts, workshops, and community events, the society keeps the county’s music alive and thriving.
Hoodening
A winter tradition of mumming and merriment, with a decorated hobby horse leading the performance.
Corn Dollies
Intricately woven straw figures honouring harvest customs, many still displayed in museums and rural homes.
Maypole Dancing
Colourful ribbons, music, and movement celebrate springtime in villages like Belford.
Pantomime Traditions
A staple of Northumbrian winters, pantomimes combine comedy, folklore, and community spirit.
Holy Island Ghost Walks
Evening tours through the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory bring tales of saints, spirits, and pirates vividly to life. As the tide rises and the light fades, the island’s timeless atmosphere makes every story feel hauntingly real.
Cheviot Hills Dragon Trails
Family-friendly walks weave through heather landscapes, where folklore and nature go hand in hand. Along the way, children can imagine dragons curled in the valleys while adults enjoy sweeping views across some of Northumberland’s most dramatic scenery.
Bamburgh Castle Legend Walks
Step into a world of myth and history as guides reveal the castle’s secrets, legends, and dramatic stories. From dragon-slaying tales to ghostly whispers, every corner of the fortress invites you to see history through the lens of legend.
Berwick Storytelling Festival
A lively annual festival where local myths, legends, and traditions are shared through performance and song. With storytellers, musicians, and community events spread across the historic town, it’s a celebration that brings heritage to life in the most joyful way.
Northumberland Folk Tales at Wallington
Interactive storytelling in the grounds of this historic estate makes for a magical family experience. Children and adults alike can lose themselves in folk tales passed down through generations, all while surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland.
Alnwick Castle Evening Tales
Guided storytelling sessions that reveal medieval myths and supernatural legends within the castle walls. As dusk settles, the setting adds an extra layer of drama, turning Alnwick’s stone halls into a stage for stories of courage, mystery, and enchantment.
