Nearby attractions

There are many interesting and varied places to see within 10 miles of the Valley. Wooler, an ancient market town is within walking distance for the hardier types. A walk over to Common Burn and down into the town can be seen signposted just by Southernknowe.

Wooler also plays host to number of restaurants, takeaways and shops. There is also a play and skate park, and a small swimming pool.

Other places of interest close by include:

• Ford and Etal Estates  : There is a wonderful little steam railway (Bunty) that looks a bit like Thomas the Tank Engine, a corn mill called Heatherslaw Mill and Hay Farm Heavy Horse Centre . 
• Borders Gliding Club at Milfield – see the Cheviots from the air. Visitors can experience gliding with one of their qualified instructors who will take you soaring in one of our modern gliders.  You can learn to handle the controls or just sit back and enjoy the views. 
• Kimmerston Riding Centre – horse riding.
• Fishing on the river Tweed
• Flodden Battle Field

Northumberland, and specifically North Northumberland offers some the UK’s finest coastal terrain. With an array of long, golden beaches and impressive castles, this designated area of outstanding natural beauty is a mere 40 minute drive from the valley (and can be seen from the Bizzle)

While the iconic Bamburgh may dominate the press headlines, there are equally enjoyable gems to be found, ranging from Cocklawburn near Berwick, to the delightful Alnmouth South Sands, a 5 minute drive or short bus ride from Alnwick.

Closer to home lies the Holy Island of Lndisfarne. Separated from the mainland by a tidal causeway, Holy Island, with it’s Castle and Viking-Sacked Monastery is a fie day out. There are some great cafe’s, coffee shops and restaurants on the Island as well. Please check the tide timetables well in advance – trying to cross through the water is impossible and can be fatal.

There are numerous boat cruise tours to see Britain’s largest colony of Puffins on the Farne Islands available from Seahouses. These run from April to late July.

The ancient town of Alnwick is a 45 minute drive from the valley, and offers an array of visitor attractions.

The magnificent castle, featured in Harry Potter and widely dubbed the “Windsor of the North”, is home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. It has featured productions such as Downton Abbey, Black Adder and the Hollywood blockbuster franchise Transformers. Tours and day passed are available from the castle website, and you can expect breathtaking history along with Harry Potter themed activities for younger members of your party.

There is also The Alnwick Garden is very close by. Complete with the iconic pavilion and wonderful treehouse restaurant. There’s lots for kids to do as well – from the crazy golf,  giant characters and of course the poison garden!

Kelso is 18 miles from the College Valley, and one of our closest towns despite being on the other side of the Border.

The town itself hold many many amenities and runs a vibrant farmers markets at the weekends.  For those keen on fishing, the famous River Tweed runs through the heart of the town and you can gain access to the river via TweedBeats.

Floors Castle is near by and open to day visitors.