Fishing boats in these parts land some great catch and the vast countryside is perfect game and dairy territory
In a picnic frame of mind
If you love a kipper, this is the place to find the best. Try Swallow Fish of Seahouses or down at Craster, be lured by the smell of Robson’s kippers wafting on the sea breeze.
www.swallowfish.co.uk
www.kipper.co.uk
Sunnyhills Farm Shop. Proud Northumbrian produce from the 1,000-acre arable farm and their 56,000-plus free-range chickens as well as local small-scale livestock. Plenty to try: milk, bread, vegetables and meat.
www.sunnyhillsfarmshop.co.uk
Turnbull’s Butchers in Alnwick is legendary. David Cameron was recently given election campaign trail sustenance with some Turnbull’s sausages.
www.turnbullsofalnwick.co.uk
Time for tea
The Running Fox in Felton is a rustic artisan bakery where ‘delicate’ doesn’t come into it, but if you like the sound of ‘top secret’ sourdough recipes, feast on such delights as sundried tomato and herb flatbread, Stilton and walnut, cheese and pickle, cornbread and rosemary, rocksalt and raisin.
Seasonal delights include summer fruit Danish pastries, Baileys and chocolate brioche. And it’s licensed.
www.runningfoxbakery.co.uk
Fill those baskets
Alnwick Farmers’ Market.
Last Friday of the month. A bustling affair in the heart of Alnwick town centre. Additionally, a traditional market is held in Alnwick market place every Saturday and Thursday.
Morpeth Farmers’ Market.
First Saturday of the month. Fish, game, cheese and the freshest veg. The town got its market licence in 1199 and by the mid-18th century it was the most important cattle market in the country.
www.neefm.org.uk
Eat well
Good stuff for foodies going on at Amble where the town boasts some great seafood eating places. The Old Boat House offers ‘just-landed’ blackboard fish specialities. Also in Amble, dip into Spurreli’s for multi-flavoured award-winning ice-creams and sweet treats.
www.boathouse-amble.html
www.spurreli.com
Lay your head
Base yourself for a coastal tour, pampering and fine food at Doxford Hall Hotel and Spa set in a beautiful Northumbrian private estate and surrounded by lovely countryside. Dine in some style at the 2AA rosette George Runciman restaurant.
www.doxfordhall.com
Diary date
June 12-14
The Mighty Dub Festival brings 5000 passionate VW lovers to Alnwick Castle. Around the festival, Mighty Dubbers party, camp out, and listen to live music in addition to the array of classic VWs to look at. Great food stalls join the fun.
www.mightydubfest.co.uk
