LNER names Northumberland towns as top spots for a peaceful holiday
LNER has named three Northumberland towns as the best destinations for a ‘quietcation’ in the region.
The train company’s new study highlights the North East’s most peaceful places to escape the noise and enjoy a slower-paced break.
The study ranked destinations based on factors including population density, air quality, dark-sky conditions, access to blue and green spaces, nearby nature designations, and the availability of quiet activities such as tea rooms, bookshops and walking trails.
Rothbury ranks highest in the region, recording the lowest population density, cleanest air and darkest skies of all the North East destinations studied. It also has 1.33 hectares of blue space, 1.58 hectares of green space and 42 nearby walking trails.
Alnwick takes second place, offering 16.38 hectares of green space and 48 nearby walking trails. It also has three tea rooms and two bookshops, making it the strongest combined selection of these quiet indoor activities among the top destinations.
Hexham places third and stands out with 99 nearby walking trails, the highest number in the region. It also offers 19.78 hectares of green space, 1.06 hectares of blue space, one tea room, and two bookshops.
David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said: "We all need a break every now and then, whether that's a weekend away from the emails, the traffic and the everyday noise, or just a change of scenery for a few days.
"That's really what this research is about: a guide to some of the UK's most peaceful towns and cities, plenty of which are easily reached by train. It shows that real peace and quiet isn't hard to find.”