Northumberland (the whole county is a National Park!)

Beadnell, Pastel Pine

Northumberland National Park has one of England’s lowest populations, and covers both a huge forest and beautiful coastline, home to many birds (including puffins) and marine creatures. With little light pollution.

Interestingly, it has one of England’s largest populations of endangered red squirrels. This is because it houses pine forests (red squirrels need natural habitats for good immunity against Squirrelpox – read more on how to help both red and grey squirrels)

When out walking, always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe. At the coast, read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.

Always check the tide times at Lindisfarne, to avoid getting stuck (the road disappears and people have to be rescued).

As the park with the lowest population, this is also England’s quietest National Park, the highest point being The Cheviot Hills. It also has five of the cleanest of England’s rivers (over 6000 of them), presumably as there are less people to drop litter and other pollutants in them.

Alongside the river, you’ll find ancient oak, birch and alder trees, providing a glimpse into the historic landscape.

Keep conkers away from dogs (oak trees are unsafe near horses and livestock).