Rothbury, a hidden gem market town in Northumberland, is home to Cragside, the world's first 'smart home', and offers a fairytale setting away from tourist crowds. Nestled in the Northumberland countryside, surrounded by the Simonside Hills and with the River Coquet flowing through its heart, this quaint town looks like something out of a storybook. It has none of the hoards of tourists who flock to nearby Alnwick or the coastal village of Bamburgh.
History and Attractions
Rothbury has a population of just over 2,000 and is believed to have been in existence since around 1100. The town features independent shops, cosy cafes, and traditional pubs. At the heart of the town lies Rothbury Bridge, an ancient structure dating back 600 years, which crosses the River Coquet and looks as impressive today as when it was built.
The surrounding Simonside Hills are a popular walking spot, with unrivalled views of the Northumberland countryside. However, Rothbury's star attraction is Cragside, a Victorian country house built by the industrialist Lord Armstrong, known as the world's first 'smart home'. Owned and managed by the National Trust, it was the first home to be lit by hydro-electricity and powered by hydraulics, filled with Victorian gadgets that made it one of the most state-of-the-art houses of the time.
Gardens and Family Activities
Outside the house, the gardens are like something out of a fantasy novel, with man-made lakes, tumbling waterfalls, fairytale bridges, and an atmospheric pine forest. The garden was the life's work of William Armstrong and his wife, Margaret. Visitors can wander through the gigantic trees in the Pinetum, explore the Rock Garden's weaving paths and cascades, and see the changing seasons in the Formal Garden.
The whole estate can be seen by car on the Carriage Drive, where way-marked walks and wildlife await. Families can adventure through the labyrinth, build in the den building area, and climb in the play area. Tickets for Cragside cost £27 for adults and £13.50 for children.
Eating and Drinking
Rothbury has no shortage of places to eat and drink. Bewicks is a quaint cafe serving small plates, warming main meals, sweet treats, tea, and coffee, right by the village green. La Mensa is an Italian restaurant serving traditional dishes, with one review saying: "Stunning Italian food, my pasta was amazing, as was the missus Risotto. Garlic bread was beautiful an a hell of a size. Pizzas looked awesome. Staff charming and super efficient."
Another added: "We arrived at the venue without booking we received a very warm welcome. The service was outstanding, very quick and attentive. The food was amazing. I totally recommend this restaurant, the prices are also good." The Queen's Head Hotel serves traditional pub food and a cosy Sunday lunch in the heart of town. The Vale Cafe is a traditional cafe serving full English breakfasts, sandwiches, and jacket potatoes, popular with bikers exploring the nearby hills.
