In country not particularly known for big skies and wide open spaces, Northumberland National Park is a dramatic exception. Stretching from Hadrian's Wall to the Cheviot Hills along the traditional Scottish border, the Northumberland National Park is one of England's emptiest quarters. Only 2,200 people live within its 405 square miles, midway between Carlisle and Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The park, at the top of England, is virtually in the center of Britain.
They've been living there a long time though. Archaeological excavations show evidence of human occupation here for 10,000 years. And the mysterious hillforts that top many hills in the northern part of the park were probably built about 700 B.C.
Before the Norman Conquest, this area was the center of the Anglo Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria. It's scattering of historic villages, castles, burial cairns give an added dimension to touring and outdoor activities in the park.
