LOOKING for inspiration for the weekend? We have put together a list of the top 10 activities to do in Nothumberland.

1. Northumberland Country Zoo

Based the Eshottheugh farm in Morpeth this is a perfect attraction for you and the family. Set in the heart of Northumbria you can explore 15 acres of land. From Meerkats to Arctic foxes there is a range of animals for you to explore. 

The zoo also offers a selection of other activities for once you are done visiting the animals, you can enjoy a game of mini golf, ride on the pedal tractors and just make the most of the zoo's outdoor facilities. 

2. Alnwick Castle 

 The 900 year old castle is based in the small town of Alnwick, The castle is the 2nd largest inhabited castle in the country and has been home to the Duke of Northumberland's family for over 700 years.

Alnwick Castle was cast as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry during Harry Potter and the Philospher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and you can still witness a quidditch match or two on your visit. 

3. Go Ape Matfen

Based in Maften Hall Hotel, near Hexham. This is a perfect day out for you thrill seekers with 38 different crossings you can swing around and play in the treetops.

The different crossings include: free-falling trazan swings, stirrups and the half trapeze and a grand zip wire finale where you can sit and relax once you have completed the course.

4. The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

If you're interested in history, this is the ideal place for you. The island is situated just off the Northumberland coast and is only accessable when the tide is out. 

This island is steeped in decades of history and is home to the 12th century Lindisfarn priory, as well as a 16th century castle that is based at the summity of the crag.

5. Woodhorn Museum 

Located at the Queen Elizabeth II County Park in Ashington, the msueum is a great attraction for the whole family to enjoy. The museum contains original colliery buildings, mining artifacts and social historiacal exhibitions.

After you have looked around the museum, you can take a look round the stunning lake based in the country park and after that you can grab a drink and a bit to eat in the park cafe.

6. Northumberland National Park

This national park, like many is full of spectacular views and walks. Perfect for nature lovers who enjoy walks of all terrains, you can walk through the parks meadows or challenge yourself to some of the steep peaks around the park.

You can also take a walk along Hadrian's wall which stretches from coast to coast and it as 80 miles long.

7. Alnwick Garden

The garden is home to one of the world's largest wooden tree houses, you can explore with walkways in the sky, rope bridges and even take a bite to eat in the treetops.

The garden is also home to the Grand Cascade, a tumbling mass of water with shooting jets which lights up and creates a magnificent desplay of colour. 

8. Boat trips to the Farne Islands 

The North East is natorious for its beaches and you can now discover more of the Northumberland coast by boat. You can take a boat trip across to the Farne islands and follow the route of the heroir Grace Darling.

If you're lucky you may also see grey seals swimming in the waters, you may also want to head over the Holy island and Lindisfarne where you can spend the day visiting the museums and cafes.

9. Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens

Another one for you and the family, why not visit Belsay Hall Castle and Gardens and explore the medieval castle and acres of wonderful gardens. 

If you visit on a clear day you will be able to witness stunnings views from the 14th century tower at the top of the medieval castle and after all that why not stop off a Belsay's Victorian tea room for a nice spot of tea.

10. Hexham Old Gaol

Another one for you history buffs, you can spend the afternoon at a former medieval prison that has now been turned into a museum whcih educates people on Northumberland's history.

The museum allows people to get to know about the life of Border Reivers through dressing up. You can experience what it was like to be put in the stocks or test your bravery by going down to the dungeons.