Why Move to Northumberland? | Northumberland is a diverse and captivating county that seamlessly blends rich historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern convenience. From the bustling market towns of Alnwick, Morpeth, and Hexham to the peaceful coastal villages of Bamburgh, Seahouses, and Craster, the region offers an exceptional quality of life for both residents and visitors.
A defining feature of Northumberland is its perfect combination of history and nature. Whether exploring the iconic Alnwick Castle, walking along the sweeping beaches of Druridge Bay and Embleton Bay, or discovering the dramatic beauty of Hadrian’s Wall, there is no shortage of breathtaking experiences. The county is also home to charming countryside hamlets, the rugged landscapes of Northumberland National Park, and world-renowned attractions like Holy Island, offering a balance between rural tranquillity and vibrant community life.
As a thriving economic centre, Northumberland provides career opportunities across a range of industries, including tourism, agriculture, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. The county has a growing digital and technology presence, with innovation hubs in key towns supporting start-ups and expanding businesses.
Northumberland benefits from strong transport links, including direct rail services to major UK cities, key road networks such as the A1 and A69, and easy access to Newcastle International Airport, ensuring excellent national and international connectivity.
With outstanding schools, a growing economy, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Northumberland is a highly desirable place to live. Whether seeking career progression, high-quality education, or a lifestyle that embraces coastal charm and modern convenience, this vibrant county has everything needed to feel at home.
Why Move to Northumberland | What to Expect
Northumberland offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant town life. From historic market towns like Alnwick and Hexham to picturesque coastal villages and modern developments, the county provides a variety of lifestyles to suit different preferences.
Northumberland is home to a diverse and welcoming community, with a strong sense of heritage and culture. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Morpeth’s bustling high street or the peaceful beauty of the Northumberland countryside, there is something for everyone. The county is known for its outstanding local cuisine, independent shops, outdoor pursuits, and cultural landmarks, ensuring plenty to see and do throughout the year.
With excellent transport links, including direct rail connections to major UK cities and access to key routes such as the A1 and A69, commuting and travel are convenient and efficient. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly environment, a thriving creative hub, or a scenic rural retreat, Northumberland offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.
Why Move to Northumberland | Housing in Northumberland: Exploring Your Options
Northumberland’s property market offers a diverse selection of homes, catering to a range of budgets and lifestyles. From charming stone cottages in rural villages to modern apartments in market towns like Morpeth and Hexham, the county provides a mix of historic and contemporary housing options.
As of 2024, the average house price in Northumberland is around £230,000, though this varies by location. Desirable areas such as Alnwick, Bamburgh, and Warkworth tend to command higher prices due to their scenic surroundings and strong communities, while more affordable options can be found in towns like Ashington, Blyth, and Prudhoe. Renting is also a popular choice, particularly in well-connected areas and tourist destinations, where many residents, students, and seasonal workers opt for flexible accommodation.
New developments in Cramlington, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Ponteland offer modern housing with excellent amenities, often at more competitive prices than coastal or historic properties. Whether you are looking for a family home, a countryside retreat, or a buy-to-let investment, Northumberland offers a strong and varied housing market.
Why Move to Northumberland | Education in Northumberland: A Centre of Learning
Northumberland boasts a strong and diverse education system, making it an excellent choice for families and students alike. The county offers a wide selection of high-performing primary and secondary schools, including well-regarded comprehensive, grammar, and independent institutions such as The Duchess’s Community High School in Alnwick, Ponteland High School, and Mowden Hall School.
For higher education, Northumberland benefits from its proximity to Newcastle, home to prestigious institutions such as Newcastle University and Northumbria University, offering world-class courses in medicine, engineering, digital technology, and business. Within the county, specialist colleges and training centres support vocational and professional development, ensuring students have access to industry-relevant qualifications.
Further education is well supported, with colleges such as Northumberland College providing vocational training, apprenticeships, and industry-focused courses. Specialist areas include agriculture, renewable energy, hospitality, and creative industries, helping students develop practical skills for the evolving job market.
Whether you are seeking high-quality schooling for your children, access to top-tier universities, or career-driven training, Northumberland offers a dynamic and supportive learning environment that helps students of all ages achieve their ambitions.
Why Move to Northumberland | Employment Opportunities
Northumberland offers a thriving and diverse job market, making it an attractive place to live and work. The county’s economy spans key industries, including tourism, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and digital technology, providing a wide range of career opportunities.
Key Employment Sectors in Northumberland
Tourism and Hospitality
Northumberland’s stunning coastline, historic castles, and national parks make it one of the UK’s top tourist destinations. Popular locations such as Alnwick, Bamburgh, and Hexham attract visitors year-round, creating strong employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, outdoor adventure activities, and heritage site management.
Renewable Energy and Advanced Manufacturing
Northumberland is at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, with wind farms, solar projects, and battery gigafactories playing a key role in the region’s economy. The county also has a strong manufacturing sector, with companies involved in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.
Digital and Creative Industries
Northumberland has a growing digital and creative economy, supported by innovation hubs in market towns and its proximity to Newcastle’s expanding tech sector. Careers in software development, digital marketing, and creative design are becoming increasingly available.
Agriculture and Food Production
With vast rural landscapes, Northumberland has a strong agricultural sector, specialising in livestock farming, arable crops, and forestry. The county is also home to artisan food producers, breweries, and distilleries supplying high-quality products to national and international markets.
Education and Healthcare
Northumberland’s education and healthcare sectors provide a range of employment opportunities. The county is home to well-regarded schools and colleges, offering careers in teaching and academic development. NHS hospitals and private healthcare providers in locations such as Hexham, Berwick-upon-Tweed, and Cramlington support jobs in nursing, medicine, and social care.
Mortgage Brokers in Northumberland: Securing a Home
Northumberland’s property market presents a wealth of opportunities, and expert guidance from mortgage brokers can be invaluable in securing the best financing options. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a buy-to-let investor, or looking to remortgage, working with a local broker can simplify the process and help you access the most competitive deals.
Northumberland-based mortgage brokers have in-depth knowledge of the local housing market, ensuring you secure a mortgage that suits your financial circumstances. Whether you are purchasing a coastal retreat in Bamburgh, a family home in Morpeth or Alnwick, a countryside property in Hexham, or a more affordable home in Ashington or Blyth, a broker can provide tailored advice and access to exclusive mortgage rates.
With expert support, securing a home in this picturesque and well-connected county becomes a smoother and more efficient process, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect property.
Why Northumberland is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Moving to Northumberland offers the ideal balance of breathtaking natural beauty, historic charm, and modern convenience, making it a fantastic place to live. With thriving career opportunities, highly regarded schools, and a welcoming community, the county caters to professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Whether you are relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, Northumberland has something for everyone. The property market is diverse, from elegant period homes in Alnwick and Morpeth to modern apartments in Hexham and Cramlington. For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, picturesque villages such as Bamburgh, Warkworth, and Seahouses offer coastal tranquillity while remaining well-connected to larger towns and cities. With excellent transport links, including direct rail services to major UK cities, key road networks like the A1 and A69, and international travel via Newcastle International Airport, commuting and travel are both convenient and efficient.
If you are considering a move, explore our mortgage guides for insights on securing the best mortgage deals in Northumberland. With expert advice and careful planning, finding your ideal home in this thriving and well-connected county can become a reality.
If you are based in Essex and looking for a later-life mortgage or equity release, our team is here to help.
Check Our Advisers in Northumberland
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FAQ: Why Move to Northumberland
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What makes Northumberland a great place to live? | Northumberland offers a peaceful, scenic lifestyle with stunning coastlines, castles, and countryside. It’s ideal for families and professionals who want more space, fresh air, and a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to modern amenities. |
| How affordable is housing in Northumberland? | Property prices in Northumberland are significantly lower than in southern England, making it an attractive choice for first-time buyers and those seeking value for money. You can often get more space and land for less compared to nearby urban centres. |
| Are there good schools and family facilities? | Yes. Northumberland is home to several Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ schools, with strong community networks, safe neighbourhoods, and plenty of outdoor activities for families. |
| What are the job opportunities like? | While many residents work locally in tourism, education, healthcare, and renewable energy, others commute to Newcastle or Edinburgh thanks to good transport links. The region’s growing digital and renewable sectors are also creating new career opportunities. |
| Is Northumberland suitable for remote working? | Absolutely. The county has a growing number of co-working hubs and reliable broadband coverage in most towns. Its calm setting and low cost of living make it ideal for remote professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle. |
| What’s the transport like in and around Northumberland? | Northumberland benefits from direct rail connections to Newcastle, Edinburgh, and London, as well as excellent road access via the A1. Local bus networks and cycle routes also connect rural communities to market towns. |
| What is there to do for leisure and recreation? | From the Northumberland National Park and Hadrian’s Wall to beaches like Bamburgh and Alnmouth, the county is full of outdoor adventures. Residents enjoy walking, cycling, and exploring historic villages and coastal trails. |
| How’s the sense of community? | Northumberland is known for its friendly, welcoming communities. Whether you’re joining a local sports club, attending a village fair, or visiting a market, there’s a strong community spirit that helps newcomers feel at home. |
| Is Northumberland a good place to retire? | Yes. Many retirees choose Northumberland for its natural beauty, slower pace, and strong healthcare services. The low crime rate and relaxed lifestyle make it a safe, enjoyable place to retire. |