Apr 28, 2026
May is a wonderful time to get out and explore, with longer days, fresh spring landscapes, and plenty of events to enjoy across Northumberland and the Borders. From scenic guided walks and wildlife experiences to family-friendly festivals and world-class sporting events, there’s something for everyone to discover. Here’s a selection of what’s on this month to help you make the most of the season.
Guided river walk at Wallington
Discover the route of the Great Wallington Railway and learn how the team at Wallington are creating homes for wildlife across the estate. The 4.2km (2.6 mile) walk will take around 90 minutes, exploring along woodland, gravel and grassy paths at a leisurely pace, and is free as part of the admission price to this beautiful National Trust property. Dogs are welcome (on lead).
12 May, 11am – 12.30pm
Osprey Watching Cruise
Guided by Wild Intrigue, this cruise will take you out onto Kielder Water in search of ospreys. These magnificent birds return from Africa to nest in this beautiful part of Northumberland each year. There will be a short talk explaining the fascinating history, ecology and local conservation of the osprey, and each cruise lasts approximately two hours, giving you the opportunity to watch this majestic bird of prey within this stunning natural setting.
Wednesdays and Saturdays from 6 May to 5 September, 5.30pm – 7.30pm.
https://www.wildintrigue.co.uk/mini-expeds/osprey-watching-cruise/
Belsay International Horse Trials
Enjoy a weekend of world-class equestrian sport set against the backdrop of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens. Welcoming the world’s top horse-and-rider combinations competing up to CCI4* level, this is your chance to witness elite eventing at its best. And it’s not only about the competition as there are other events for all the family to enjoy, from the new Family Fun Trail to the ever-popular fun dog show.
15 – 17 May, 8am – 6pm
Traquair Medieval Fayre
Experience an authentic weekend of medieval entertainment in the grounds of Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited house. With jousting down the main avenue, falconry displays, armed combat with knights in armour, living history demonstrations, have-a-go archery, craft demonstrations, jesters, and much more, this event has something for the whole family. Dogs are welcome (on leads) but be aware that there will be loud noises (including cannons) throughout each day.
23 and 24 May, 11am-5pm
https://www.traquair.co.uk/event/medievalfayre/
Amble Puffin Festival
Celebrate all things puffin in this one-day festival – held at the best time of year to see the Coquet Island puffins as they prepare to take care of their newly hatched pufflings. A range of events will be taking place throughout the day, from exhibitions and talks to workshops and a craft fair. Highlights include a seascape photography workshop with professional photographer Ivor Rackham, an afternoon guided nature walk to spot and learn about all the seabirds and shorebirds of Northumberland, and a dog show with Northumberland Dog Rescue.
23 May, all day
https://ambleevents.org/amble-puffin-events/
Guided walk to Hadrian’s Wall
Start at Walltown Country Park’s Visitor Centre, this 1.5 mile wander will take you to Hadrian’s Wall, with incredible views in all directions, before returning through woodland that’s carpeted in wildflowers. These short (free) walks are designed to encourage people to connect with their surroundings meaningfully – at a time of year when the natural environment is so vibrant with life. Dogs are welcome (on lead).
Walks will run twice daily at 11:45am and 14:00pm on 21/23/26/28/30 May and 1 June
https://www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/whats-on/walk-to-the-wall-short-guided-walk/
Super Seals on Lindisfarne
Up to 4000 grey and harbour seals use the beaches and rocky shores of Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve to rest, socialise, give birth, and feed their pups. This is a fun afternoon of family crafts and games to learn more about these fascinating sea mammals – follow with a stroll around this scenic island with its incredible coastal views.
9 May, 12:00 – 14:00
https://lifewader.co.uk/events
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