So many people have recommended the Northumbrian coast to us that, soon after my wife and I had started our work sabbaticals (it's too early to call it "retirement" yet!) we jumped in the car to head north and explore the area.
But where to stay?
We love walking but are drawn more to countryside than coast. We prefer small, independent B&Bs to large, impersonal hotels. We enjoy eating out, but not necessarily going back to the same place. We don't mind a short pre-dinner stroll…even in November.
Solution? West Acre House in Alnwick, ideally situated to explore the wild moorlands of the National Park as well as the recommended coastal stretch from Amble to Bamburgh. And on the outskirts of a historic town with plenty of pubs, restaurants and shops, as well as the castle and famous gardens, to investigate.
West Acre House has achieved an almost unblemished 5* rating on almost 400 Trip Advisor reviews. And having spent 5 nights at Bruce and Jeannette's luxurious, yet comfortable, B&B it's very easy to see why.
Tea and cake in the conservatory on arrival. Local Craster kippers one amongst many imaginative breakfast options, locally sourced wherever possible. A decanter of sherry, together with hula hoops, in the bedroom to satisfy those early evening munchies. An extensive DVD library for late night post-pub entertainment. The attention to detail and genuine desire to ensure you enjoy your stay are impressive.
We had the Edwardian room (one of four B&B bedrooms), a spacious king-size en-suite bedroom redecorated to a very high standard in 2013, with art nouveau Lincrusta panels and William Morris wallpaper, luxury bed linen and a spectacular view over the large garden and beyond, to the open skies of the Northumbrian landscape.
West Acre House is a level 10 minute walk to the famous Barter Books and 15 minutes to Alnwick town centre. For us that was perfect but there are closer town-centre options if that's too far out for you.
But if you choose West Acre House as your base to explore Northumberland, I'm sure you won't be disappointed. Especially if you like kippers and sherry.
