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Discover the best things to do in Corbridge, Northumberland

Local attractions near the Black Bull

If you’re planning a countryside escape in the North of England, you should always consider Corbridge. This beautiful village just 16 miles west of Newcastle hosts an array of countryside views, Roman history and fantastic attractions. It’s also home to the Black Bull, a cosy countryside pub that makes for a relaxing retreat after a busy day.

Whether you want to see Hadrian’s Wall, explore the historic Vindolanda or bask in the beauty of Hexham Abbey, there are so many things to do in Corbridge and the surrounding area. Let’s take a look at some of the best.

Hexham Abbey

Located in the heart of Hexham a few miles from Corbridge, Hexham Abbey is one of the most popular things to do in Northumberland – and there’s no surprise why. This beautiful church dates back to the 7th century and offers a mix of rich history, architecture and peaceful serenity.

You can explore the abbey's impressive interior, made up of beautiful stained glass windows and ancient stonework, or journey down into the fascinating crypt below. It’s also a great place to learn about Hexham’s rich history and its role in early Christianity.

What’s more, the abbey has an excellent visitor centre, an interactive exhibition, a cafe and a shop. So there’s all sorts to do for the whole family.

Aydon Castle

Aydon Castle is a towering historic fortress located just outside Corbridge. This medieval castle is incredibly well-preserved, giving you a real sense of history as you explore its rooms and lovely grounds.

While it started life as a fortified medieval manor house in the 13th century, it grew smaller as Anglo-Scottish border warfare increased in the area. In fact, the castle was attacked three times by Scottish raiders during the war.

Today, things will be a little calmer as you marvel at the impressive walls and towers, imagining what life was like all those centuries ago. The castle also has a peaceful garden perfect for a stroll on a sunny day, and is truly one of the most mesmerising things to do in Corbridge.

Hadrian's Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK, stretching across Northern England from coast to coast. Built by the Romans in the 2nd century, the wall has a special place in Britain’s history and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

You can visit various sections of the wall, including Housesteads Fort or the Roman Army Museum, where you’ll learn all about life on the frontier. Whether you're into history, hiking or just want a brisk walk in the outdoors, it’s a must-visit when you’re in this part of England.

After a day of exploring, head over to the Black Bull for some great food or refreshing drinks. It’s the ideal way to reflect on the day’s adventure and one of the best pubs near Hadrian’s Wall.

Dilston Physic Garden

If you’re near Corbridge and looking for something to do, head over to the stunning Dilston Physic Garden, just a few miles from the village. It’s a peaceful and tranquil spot, ideal for a walk through its garden that’s dedicated to medicinal plants and herbs.

The garden is set on the site of an old hospital and has a real sense of history to it. Walk along the well-maintained paths, learn about the plants and their healing properties and even get a sense of how they were used in ancient medicine.

This interesting attraction is one of the best things to do in Corbridge, Northumberland, so relax, get some fresh air, and enjoy nature at its best.

Vindolanda

Vindolanda is another great attraction in this picturesque corner of the country. This incredible Roman fort and archaeological site lies just south of Hadrian’s Wall, near the village of Bardon Mill. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the UK, with stunning ruins and fascinating museum exhibits throughout.

You can walk through the remains of the fort, see the bathhouse and discover a whole host of artefacts, including famous Roman shoes and writing tablets. It’s a great spot for history enthusiasts or anyone interested in life during the Roman occupation.

If you’re looking for pubs near Vindolanda, make your way to the Black Bull to relax and refuel with some delicious food and drinks after a fun and educational visit to this intriguing Roman site.

A mobile sized illustration advertising local attractions near to The Blue Cap.

Go for par at Sandiway Golf Club

Formed in 1920 and just across the road from the Blue Cap, the esteemed Sandiway Golf Club is home to generous, tree-lined freeways with sandy subsoil, making the course an excellent golfing location all year round. Spot the oak, beech and birchwood trees, dotted with birds and insects, and as you play through the back nine, take some time to enjoy the ravishing backdrop of Pettypool — best viewed on the 11th and 12th holes.

The club holds an extensive history, from its original layout by Ted Ray, the first UK & Ireland Ryder Cup Captain, to part of the course being lost in the Second World War as the fairways were ploughed for food production. In the 1950s, some holes were lost or abandoned due to enforcement by the completion of the Northwich bypass, which you may drive on today as you make your way to the Blue Cap! Today, the club is often chosen to host international, national, regional and local championships and is held in high regard as a traditional private members’ club.

If your golfing skills are a little rusty, you can check out the course before you arrive on the Course Flyover page. Booking is advised at this esteemed golf club.

Sprinkle some time in Northwich into your day

Northwich is famous for its salt industry, which is, in fact, the reason the town has such few ancient buildings. The constant pumping of brine from beneath the district and the collapse of old salt mines has weakened the landscape around, sadly causing subsidence of the town, but this has been arrested in recent times with the introduction of controlled pumping.

Take a stroll through the old market town, pop into a few independent shops on your way past and, if you’ve timed your trip well, visit the monthly Artisan Market, full of unique treasures and handmade goods. The town is vibrant and welcoming, sitting prettily on the confluence of the River Dane and the Weaver Navigation, and has a distinctive look with its black and white timber-framed buildings.

Northwich lies at the end of the Heritage Cycle Trail route from Anderton Boat Lift and is home to the Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, where the history of West Cheshire comes to life through film, reconstruction, models, displays and artefacts. It’s a truly lovely day out for any family, made even better with a visit to a pub near Northwich. Why not try the Blue Cap, just 11 minutes' drive away, to complete a day of heartfelt memories?

The Ice Cream Farm

Award-winning ice cream, fun at the farm and family-friendly events are aplenty here at the Ice Cream Farm, and it's just a 25-minute drive from the Blue Cap, Sandiway, too. There are ten different areas for the little ones to run wild in, including Europe's largest indoor sand and water play, an adventure golf course and an arcade room for older children.

The Ice Cream Farm is also home to the world's biggest ice cream shop. The shop is filled with over 50 flavours of award-winning Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, which are topped with enough sprinkles and sauces to fulfil even the sweetest of tooths.

If you're looking for an event for the whole family, the Ice Cream Farm has themed escape rooms, scavenger hunts, toddler time and more. It's the perfect place to treat everyone to a day of fun and excitement in a fun and engaging environment. And, after a busy day of play, you can pop into the Blue Cap for a drink and some non-ice-cream-themed food afterwards.

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