Active holiday in North East England
Discover North East England with DFDS package holidays
Experience the charm of North East England with DFDS. Our IJmuiden-Newcastle ferry route takes you straight to the heart of this extremely welcoming, authentic and breathtaking region of Britain. On this page you will find useful information to help you plan your active and adventurous holiday.
Our package holidays including ferry crossings and hotels offer you the perfect holiday full of culture, history and natural beauty. Save 30% on ferry crossings when you book your short break with hotel and travel flexibly with your own car and unlimited luggage.
Photo credits for the 1st picture: NGI - Kevin Gibson Photo credits for the 2nd picture: Visit Britain - Pinzutu
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Northumberland - a true English outdoor paradise
North East England, with Northumberland as its shining centrepiece, is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Vast landscapes unfold here, from rolling hills to rugged coastal paths, perfect for walkers and cyclists who love breathtaking views.
For stargazers, the Dark Sky areas are a dream come true, while history buffs can immerse themselves in the area’s rich past, with fascinating museums and historic attractions such as the famous Hadrian’s Wall, a remnant of Roman times.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape in the picturesque countryside or want to explore the welcoming North East of England with its unique culture and attractions, this region has something for everyone.
Photo credits: Visit Britian - Georgie Sowman
The best time to visit North East England
Every season has its charm in North East England. Spring brings blooming heather and rolling hills, and milder temperatures, perfect for walking and cycling. Explore trails such as the Cheviot Hills while enjoying the blossoming nature. Summer invites you to walk along rugged coastal paths or take a refreshing dip. Try kayaking along the beautiful coast or go birdwatching on the Farne Islands. Autumn paints the forests in warm hues, a magical time for hiking and exploring historic sites such as Hadrian’s Wall. Winter is a perfect time to enjoy cosy pub crawls, stargaze in the Dark Sky areas and browse atmospheric markets. Plus, visit one of the many castles and enjoy the quiet charm of the wintery countryside.
The best destinations for hotel accommodations
North East England has some great places to stay for active holidays. Hexham, close to Hadrian’s Wall, is ideal for walkers and cyclists looking to explore historic routes. Want to explore the coast? Choose to stay in Alnwick or Bamburgh, charming coastal towns with easy access to kayaking and beach walks. For stargazers, Kielder Water & Forest Park and the surrounding villages are top destinations. Here you’ll find hotels that will pamper you with comfort and a great location for stargazing after a day of activity.
Exclusive offer from our partner Outdooractive
Discover Northumberland with DFDS and Outdooractive – a paradise for nature lovers! Plan your active holiday with the DFDS North East England short break package and take advantage of exclusive benefits: In addition to an incredible 30% discount on hotel short trips with the Newcastle ferry during the off-season, you will also receive a free 30-day trial subscription of Outdooractive Pro, the leading platform for hiking and cycling routes.
With Outdooractive Pro, you have access to detailed route maps from outdoor professionals, offline features, and more – perfect for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of North East England along its rugged coastline. Enrich your adventure, enjoy unforgettable panoramas, and experience North East England at its very best!
