All those who love and live in Northumberland are being urged to put their vote where their heart is to help Northumberland in this year's British Travel Awards 2015. This year, Northumberland is the only county in the North East to be nominated in the category for Best UK Holiday County/Destination. Against other nominees Pembrokeshire, Devon and six-time winner Cornwall, it is hoped the whole North East region will get behind the twice-nominated county to bring home the Gold.
Last year, the county amassed huge celebrity support. Northumbrian actor Robson Green, Newcastle United footballing legend Alan Shearer and adopted Northumbrian crime-writer Ann Cleeves were among those who urged the public to vote for Northumberland.
Hidden gem
Still known as 'the hidden gem' of England, Northumberland has something for everyone. Beautiful unspoilt countryside such as the Northumberland National Park and the rugged AONB coastline provide the perfect backdrop to majestic castles and iconic attractions like Bamburgh Castle and Hadrian's Wall.
Vast beaches give way to quaint seaside towns full of foodie delights such as Amble Harbour Village and Craster kippers. Green fields provide gourmet luxury at Matfen Hall and great eco-credentials at Battlesteads Hotel and Restaurant. Tailor your holiday to your own needs with self-catering accommodation from Northumbria Coast & Country Cottages, immerse yourself in Northumbrian towns and villages with B&Bs such as The Bamburgh Castle Inn at Seahouses, or relax in family-friendly Golden Sands Holiday Park at Cresswell.
Wild spirit
But Northumberland is more than a great view, tasty treats and lovely accommodation. Much of Northumberland's appeal is its wild spirit. As footballing legend Jack Charlton says: ''I love the hills, I love the valleys, I love the rivers, I love the beaches and the sea, but most of all I love the people''.
You can enjoy days exploring the wild Northumbrian countryside with foraging experts. Meet new friends on walks and cycleways criss-crossing the county from north to south, countryside to coast, from the veteran Pennine Way to the new Sandstone Way. Try daredevil action activities including mountain biking and archery for all abilities at Kielder Water and Forest Park. You will find out why Northumberland is the land of wild nights out once you spend an evening stargazing with astronomers in the largest Dark Sky Park in Europe.
All of which is summed up by musician and local lad Sting, who has added his voice to Northumberland's 2015 campaign to win Best UK Holiday County/Destination at the British Travel Awards 2015: “There's still a wildness to Northumberland, a feeling of being on the edge of something, the Romans certainly thought so and built their wall there. The ghosts of the Border Reivers still haunt Windy Gyle and Bloodybush Edge, the endless white sand beaches where the Danes landed in their long boats, it's all there in the plaintive song of the Curlew up on the windy moors, still wild!”