Things To Do
in Ashington
Ashington, in Northumberland, sits amid former coalfields just inland from the North Sea. The town blends industrial heritage with green spaces, parks, and easy access to coastal villages. It serves as a convenient base for exploring both heritage sites like Woodhorn and the nearby beaches.
While reflective of its mining past, Ashington also offers a friendly, accessible street-scene and several family-friendly attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a drive to the stunning Northumberland Coast, where you can soak in the fresh sea air and the scenic views. Visit the iconic Alnwick Castle, just a short distance away, and explore its impressive gardens and famed architecture. Don’t forget to grab a light breakfast at a charming café nearby, enjoying local pastries and a warm cup of tea.
After exploring the castle, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline, perhaps stopping at the picturesque village of Craster. Here, you can enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants, savoring fresh crab and other delicacies. Spend some time at the beach, soaking up the sun and watching the waves crash against the shore.
Return to Ashington in the evening and unwind at one of the local pubs, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and a pint of local ale. Engage with the friendly locals and share stories from your day while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. If you're up for it, take a short walk through the town to appreciate its charming evening ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the Woodhorn Museum, which showcases the rich mining history of Ashington and the surrounding area. Explore the fascinating exhibitions, including artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight the lives of the miners. After immersing yourself in the past, enjoy a coffee at the museum café, surrounded by local art and history.
Continue your journey by visiting the nearby Ashington Community Woods, where you can walk through beautiful woodlands and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the woods, or visit a local eatery for a traditional lunch. Consider joining a guided nature walk to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
As the sun sets, head back to Ashington and treat yourself to dinner at one of the town's renowned restaurants, sampling traditional British cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the town's center, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps stopping by a local shop. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local theater, catching a performance or film.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🎟️Attraction ticket | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to the Northumberland coast
- Rich mining heritage and museums
- Strong local food scene with seafood and Northumbrian dishes
- Good value for money compared to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife within Ashington itself
- Weather can be rainy and windswept
- Public transport options may be less frequent than larger cities
Places to Visit in Ashington
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic brick-and-metal colliery architecture set in former mining grounds; ideal for industrial-era photography and reflective water features.
Seaside sculpture on the promenade; dramatic against the sea, especially at dawn or dusk.
A large land sculpture offering sweeping views of surrounding farmland and villages; great for wide landscape shots.
Harbors, fishing boats, and sea cliffs provide dynamic maritime photography opportunities.
Food in Ashington
Ashington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty layered potato, onion, and cheese bake, sometimes with bacon or leeks; a Northumbrian staple found in pubs and cafés.
Must-Try!
A creamy pie featuring local white fish and seafood, often with a dill or lemon tang.
Seasonal catches such as haddock, cod, and crustaceans available at coastal eateries and markets near Blyth and Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and seasonal goods.
Seasonal stalls along the promenade with street food, snacks, and crafts, perfect for a seaside bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People generally queue patiently for buses, shops, and services; cut-ins are frowned upon.
A friendly 'hello' or 'hiya' is typical; North East chat tends to be warm and approachable.
Be mindful in residential areas late at night and show courtesy in pubs and cafes.
Safety
Tipping in Ashington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common if satisfied with service.
Card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common; cash is still accepted in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with long daylight hours; sea breezes can be refreshing, and coastal spots are popular for outdoor life and photography.
Cooler temperatures with autumn colors in wooded and upland areas; winds along the coast can be strong.
Cold, windy, and wetter months; indoor attractions like Woodhorn are ideal refuges, though clear, crisp days can be excellent for photography.
Greens return, migratory birds return to the coast; pleasant for hikes and outdoor activities with fewer crowds.
Ashington at Night
Hiking in Ashington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded trails and open viewpoints offering scenic views over the Coquet Valley; suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Coastal trail sections with sea views, beaches, and wildlife along the Northumberland coast.
Expansive upland moorland with long-distance vistas and rewarding long hikes for experienced walkers.
Airports
How to reach Ashington by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region; about 25-40 miles by road; rail connections via Tyne to Newcastle.
Alternative airport to the south; longer drive but useful for certain destinations in the North East.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly White British with growing diversity from other UK regions and abroad; families, workers, and retirees form the town's social fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The North East is renowned for football culture; major clubs like Newcastle United attract regional attention.
Local clubs and regional matches are common in the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer veggie pies, baked potatoes, and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask about vegetarian cheese and rennet when ordering.