Exploring the Charming Town of Morpeth in Northumberland
Morpeth is a delightful town, located about 15 miles North of Newcastle and approximately 20 miles South of Alnwick. Based in Northumberland, Morpeth perfectly blends history with modern charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a shopping aficionado, Morpeth has something for everyone. We’ve created a list of why a visit to Morpeth should be on your itinerary.
History and Heritage in Morpeth
Morpeth’s historical significance is evident from its cobbled streets and heritage sites. We recommend starting your exploration at the Tourist Information Centre which is housed in the medieval 13th Century Morpeth Chantry building, overlooking the River Wansbeck. In addition to the Tourist Information Centre, the Chantry also houses the Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum, as well as an Arts and Craft Centre – ideal to pick up unique Northumbrian gifts.
For a touch of local history, don’t miss the statue of Emily Davison in Carlisle Park and her grave at the near by Church of St Mary the Virgin. Emily was a notable suffragette who played a pivotal role in the women’s suffrage movement. The statue was erected in 2018, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the first women getting the right to vote .
Scenic Carlisle Park
Carlisle Park is a jewel in Morpeth’s crown. This beautiful park offers woodland paths, formal gardens, rowing on the River Wansbeck, tennis courts, and a paddling pool. The park is home to the William Turner Garden, dedicated to the “Father of English Botany.” This peaceful garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll amid flourishing flora.
For families, the park features an aviary and play area, providing a fun day out for all ages.
Vibrant Market Town
Morpeth’s market town atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming. Sanderson Arcade offers a luxury shopping experience with an eclectic mix of high-street and boutique shops. On the first Saturday of each month, the Morpeth Farmers’ Market comes alive with stalls selling local produce, artisan breads, cheeses, and homemade pickles—ideal for stocking up on picnic essentials.
Bridge Street and Newgate Street further enhance Morpeth’s shopping experience with a variety of shops, cafes, and trendy bars, making it a bustling hub for visitors.
Morpeth Culinary Delights
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in Morpeth. The town boasts a wide array of dining options, from traditional British cuisine made with local produce to international flavors including Greek, Italian, and Indian. Whether you’re looking for a cosy pub meal or a fine dining experience, Morpeth has you covered.
Family Fun at Whitehouse Farm Centre
Just south of Morpeth, Whitehouse Farm Centre offers a fantastic day out for families. Awarded ‘Gold’ in the 2024 North East Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, there’s plenty to see and do. Activities include bottle feeding lambs, tractor rides, and meeting a variety of small animals. It’s a perfect place for children to learn about farm life and interact with animals.
Easy Access
Morpeth is conveniently accessible by public transport with good bus and train links. The train station is on the main East Coast Line, with stops to and from Edinburgh in the North and London. The train station is a short half-mile walk to the town centre, making it easy to explore without the need for a car.
explore our holiday cottages at coast & country stays
A visit to Morpeth offers a blend of history, natural beauty, shopping, and family-friendly activities. This charming Northumberland town offers a perfect day trip destination. Explore the cobbled streets, enjoy the serene parks, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the vibrant market atmosphere.
Come stay at our thoughtfully designed holiday cottages located on the Northumberland Coast – an ideal location to plan your day trips. For more details and to book your stay, visit Coast and Country Stays and Visit Northumberland.
