Howick Hall to Craster Walk

Howick Hall. The current house was built in the late 18th century after the original medieval house was replaced. In the 1920s, the house suffered a devastating fire, leading to the demolition of its upper floors. It was later converted into a residence for retired clergymen, and while the house itself is not open to the public, the surrounding gardens and arboretum attract visitors throughout the year.

The gardens at Howick Hall are renowned for their diverse plant collections and seasonal beauty. The extensive grounds include formal gardens, woodland walks, and an arboretum containing rare and exotic trees. The gardens have been developed over generations, particularly by Lady Mary Grey in the 20th century, who introduced many of the unusual plant species that thrive there today. The woodland garden is especially impressive in spring, with displays of snowdrops, daffodils, and rhododendrons, while the summer months bring vibrant borders filled with herbaceous perennials. The arboretum, which covers around 65 acres, features trees from across the world, including species from Asia and North America. The Bog Garden is another highlight, home to moisture-loving plants such as gunnera and primulas, while the Wildflower Meadow provides a haven for pollinators and birdlife.

Craster woods

Down Haven Hill

Howick village. Howick is a small, quiet settlement located near the hall, with a long history linked to the estate. The village once housed estate workers and retains a traditional rural charm. It lies close to the Northumberland coastline, near the dramatic cliffs and rocky shores that define this stretch of the North Sea. A short distance from the village is Howick Haven, a small bay known for its rugged beauty and archaeological significance. Excavations here uncovered evidence of Mesolithic human habitation, suggesting that people lived in the area over 9,000 years ago. Today, the village is a peaceful place, with walking routes leading through the countryside and along the coast.

Approaching the Bathing House. The area surrounding Howick Hall supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, benefiting from its combination of woodland, grassland, and coastal habitats. The gardens and arboretum attract numerous bird species, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, and warblers, while red squirrels, a species that has declined in many parts of the UK, can still be seen in the woodlands. The coastal environment provides a stark contrast, with windswept grasses and hardy plants such as sea thrift and marram grass growing along the cliffs. The rock pools and beaches at Howick Haven support marine life, including crabs, anemones, and seaweed species adapted to the harsh conditions of the tidal zone. Offshore, seabirds such as fulmars, kittiwakes, and puffins can be seen, particularly in the breeding season when they nest on the cliffs. The diversity of habitats around Howick makes it an important area for wildlife, offering a blend of coastal and inland ecosystems that support a wide range of species.