Living in Northumberland
Northumberland is a county in the north east of England, known for its wide open landscapes, long coastline and strong sense of rural character. It stretches from the border with Scotland down to the outskirts of Tyne and Wear, with much of the county defined by rolling countryside, moorland and quiet coastal areas. The landscape feels spacious and lightly populated, with settlements spread across a large and varied area.
The county includes towns such as Alnwick, Berwick upon Tweed, Hexham, Morpeth and Ashington, each serving surrounding communities in different ways. Many of these towns developed through agriculture, trade and, in some areas, mining and industry. Today, they continue to support local services and community life, maintaining a steady connection to the surrounding countryside.
Northumberland is particularly associated with its natural and historic environment, including extensive areas of open land and a coastline marked by beaches and small harbours. Walking, cycling and outdoor recreation are widely enjoyed, often in quiet and unspoilt settings. Overall, Northumberland offers a calm and enduring mix of rural landscape, historic settlement and coastal influence, giving it a distinctive and well rooted place within England.
Largest Towns in Northumberland 12
Location
Elevation & Terrain
Northumberland stretches from 0 ft at Beadnell up to 1,660 ft at Coalcleugh, a span of 1,660 ft across 477 towns and villages. This reflects dramatic upland terrain, with a substantial climb from the lowest to the highest places.
Deprivation Index (IMD)
Average deprivation scores across 34 postcode areas in Northumberland. Higher deciles (closer to 10) indicate less deprivation.
Places in Northumberland 477
Postcode Areas in Northumberland 4
Northumberland is served by 4 postcode areas. Each area contains multiple postcode districts covering different parts of the county.