NORTHUMBERLAND has been named as one of The New York Times’ most exciting places to travel to in the world.

The New York Times produces an annual list of the most exciting places to travel to in the world. This year’s ‘52 Places for a Changed World’ features Northumberland as number four on the list.

For 2022, the list has been amended to highlight the places where travelling will help climate change.

Cllr Gordon Stewart, who represents the constituency of Prudhoe South, said: “We will never become sickened of such accolades. We have known for years of the beauty of this great county and the broad history over the centuries.”

“Northumberland’s beaches, castles and forests are well known. But since the pandemic started, other areas such as around our rivers and urban woodlands have been ‘rediscovered’ and enjoyed by so many.”

Cllr Stewart added: “Tourism, including daytrippers, is welcome and assists in the county’s economy, as well as the general wellbeing of our residents, but as a council we are aware of some local difficulties that may now be encountered such as parking and toilet facilities, and we are actively dealing with these if they appear to be causing long-term concern.”

Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said: “We were delighted, but not at all surprised, to see that Northumberland has made it to number four in The New York Times' ‘52 Places for a Changed World’.

"Previously referred to by many as the Secret Kingdom, Northumberland is now being recognised throughout the world for its dark skies, pristine beaches and dramatic landscapes where you can escape the hustle and bustle of every day life.”

“2022 is an exciting time with Hadrian’s Wall 1900, a celebration of 1,900 years since the building of Hadrian’s Wall. In addition, the spectacular Lindisfarne Gospels will return to our neighbours in Newcastle in September, with events throughout Northumberland, to celebrate its return.”

The New York Times recommended Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, which has some of the lowest levels of light pollution in the country.

Exploring Hadrian’s Wall this year for its 1,900th anniversary and Kielder Observatory are also mentioned as noteworthy attractions.