Small group - Ancient Northumberland

Journey Through The Ancient Archaeological Landscapes Of Northumberland On A Guided Historical Tour

Step back in time with an immersive exploration of Northumberland, tracing the fascinating history of early human settlement in North East England. This small-group tour takes you through thousands of years of prehistory, from the Mesolithic era to the Iron Age. By visiting significant archaeological sites, you will gain a deeper understanding of how ancient communities adapted to the changing British landscape, built their homes, and developed complex societies long before the written records of history began.

The journey begins on the dramatic Northumberland coast at Howick, home to one of Britain’s best-preserved Mesolithic huts. Here, you will learn about the lives of early hunter-gatherers who thrived after the Ice Age, utilizing the coastal resources to sustain their families. Your guide will provide expert context, explaining the significance of these findings and how they offer a rare window into the daily existence of the first people to inhabit this rugged and beautiful northern shoreline.

After a peaceful midday break for lunch, the tour moves inland to the historic landscape of Lordenshaws within Northumberland National Park. This area is rich with Neolithic rock art, featuring mysterious cup and ring carvings that have puzzled and fascinated historians for generations. You will also explore Bronze Age burial mounds and an impressive Iron Age hillfort, allowing you to visualize the full arc of human development in the region and the evolution of early farming communities.

This comprehensive eight-hour tour is designed for history enthusiasts who want to walk in the footsteps of ancient ancestors. The combination of coastal beauty and inland archaeological treasures provides a balanced experience that is both educational and visually stunning. By the end of the day, you will have a profound appreciation for the deep roots of Northumberland, having explored the remnants of the earliest civilizations that shaped the cultural and physical landscape of Britain.