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Nestled in Northumberland, this charming village offers everything needed for a weekend getaway exploring the countryside, with all amenities right on the doorstep.

Belford sits perfectly between the Northumberland coastline and the Northumberland National Park, making it an ideal location for combining peaceful rural surroundings with stunning coastal views. Packed with independent shops, pubs, restaurants and coffee shops, it provides a relaxed retreat without requiring a lengthy journey.

The village boasts two traditional and welcoming pubs that are loved by both locals andtourists for their character and excellent food and drink selection. The Black Swan, which doubles as a bed and breakfast, is a Belford favourite and has garnered nearly 200 glowing TripAdvisor reviews.

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One delighted guest said: "We received a warm welcome and were led to our room, which, whilst small (not too small) was well laid out, spotless and very comfortable. The food was well prepared, tasty and reasonably priced, and the management and staff, friendly and efficient – a definite 'YES' for anyone wanting to visit Lindisfarne or Bamburgh Castle."

While exploring the village, visitors can also pop into the Salmon Inn. One customer described their visit, saying: "Decent village pub that offers a decent beer and some standard pub grub Check the opening times for the food, as certainly during the week they only serve a few hours - portions were good, and it was hot when delivered."

Many visitors are drawn to the area to tackle the popular St Cuthbert's Cave walk, located a few miles from the village. It's a fascinating route, believed to be connected to monks who brought St Cuthbert's body to the location as early as AD 875 following a reported Viking attack. Today, people make the journey hoping to experience some of the mystical energy the saint was thought to possess. He was believed to have spiritual healing powers, making the site a sacred place where his body once rested.

The National Trust has maintained the natural cave and its surrounding woodlands since 1981. The overhanging rock forms a perfect shelter, ideal for protection during a rainy and blustery walk through the region. Fellow walkers on TripAdvisor have described this trek as "well worth a visit" when sharing their experiences. One visitor noted: "The first part of the walk (to the cave) was fairly straightforward.

"We then decided to carry on and do the circular route back to the car park. Initially this did give some amazing views of the coast, including Lindisfarne, Bamburgh and the Farne Islands, and is well worth going up the hill from the cave for." Another intriguing site on the outskirts of the village is Belford Castle, a charming piece of architecture with a rich history. It's thought to have originated in 1414, starting as a simple mound of earth constructed by the Normans, before evolving into a fortified courtyard.

Today, it stands as a 19th-century Gothic farmhouse, erected on the foundations of the original castle and mounds. While it is now privately owned and not accessible to the public, this historic landmark can be clearly seen from across the road as you explore the area.