England is a country where food isn’t just fuel — it’s a way to connect with history, local traditions, and stunning landscapes. While many visitors focus on sights and history, exploring local flavors offers a whole new perspective on the UK. We especially love Northumberland’s coastal food tours for their fresh seafood and scenic charm, and the Meet the Makers tour for its in-depth encounters with local producers. These experiences not only highlight authentic flavors but also give you a behind-the-scenes look at the people who craft your food.
In this guide, we’ll explore two of the best food tours in Northumberland. Both offer six-hour adventures but differ in focus: one centers on the coast’s seafood treasures, and the other highlights meeting the producers behind Northumberland’s artisan foods. Whether you prefer tasting fresh oysters on the shoreline or learning about local farming and distilling, these tours give you a taste of real Northumberland.
Below, we’ll detail each experience, helping you decide which fits your travel style and taste. Ready to fill your stomach and your camera roll? Let’s dive into these flavorful options.
1. Northumberland: 6 hour Coastal Food Tour
At number one on our list is the Northumberland: 6 hour Coastal Food Tour. This full-day adventure along Northumberland’s stunning coastline offers an authentic taste of the region’s seafood, scenic villages, and folklore. The tour concentrates on the fresh catch of the day, including the renowned Lindisfarne oyster, which is celebrated for its delicate, briny flavor. You’ll visit charming fishing villages like Seahouses and Beadnell, soaking up local history and maritime traditions.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of culinary delights with cultural insights. Your guide, who’s well-versed in Northumberland’s turbulent past, will share stories of pirates, shipwrecks, and legends while you enjoy regional tipples or non-alcoholic drinks. The tour lasts six hours and is designed for those who love coastal scenery paired with seafood, making it ideal for lovers of fresh, local ingredients. The journey is comfortable, with an expert guide ensuring you get the most out of every stop.
While reviews mention a rating of 3.2/5, the experience appeals most to travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with a focus on oysters, local fishing villages, and storytelling. The value lies in combining good food with culture, making it perfect for seafood lovers eager to explore Northumberland’s coast.
Bottom line: This tour is excellent if you want a relaxed, seafood-focused day that pairs regional flavors with scenic views and local lore.
2. Northumberland: 6 Hour Meet the Makers Food Tour
Coming in at number two is the Northumberland: 6 Hour Meet the Makers Food Tour. Unlike the coastal focus, this experience emphasizes meeting local farmers and artisan producers. The tour takes you behind the scenes at farms, apiaries, and distilleries, giving you a firsthand look at how Northumberland’s craft foods and drinks are made. Plus, you’ll enjoy a three-course meal featuring local ingredients along with plenty of samples and drinks.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to meet the people behind the products. You’ll chat with farmers about their sustainable practices and learn how traditional methods blend with modern innovation. During the visit to a distillery, you’ll discover the process of making local spirits, and an apiary visit showcases the importance of bees to local agriculture. The tour is ideal for those interested in food craftsmanship, heritage, and local stories.
While the reviews for this tour are not specified, its focus on personal interactions and behind-the-scenes access makes it highly appealing to foodies who want a deeper understanding of Northumberland’s culinary scene. The meal with drinks and ample sampling ensures a satisfying, well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to meet the makers, learn their stories, and taste a variety of local produce and drinks in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider what you most want from your Northumberland food experience. Are you a seafood lover eager to taste the freshest catches and enjoy coastal scenery? If so, the coastal food tour is your best bet. Conversely, if you’re more interested in artisan foods, meeting local producers, and enjoying a multi-course meal, the Meet the Makers tour offers a more in-depth, behind-the-scenes look.
Budget, time, and your interest level also matter. Both tours last six hours, so they fit well into a day of sightseeing. For those keen on seafood and scenic coastlines, the first tour offers fresh taste and ocean views. For those curious about food craftsmanship and local stories, the second provides a richer cultural experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season. Check availability, especially if you want a specific start time, and consider your fitness level — both tours involve some walking and standing, but no strenuous activity is required.
In summary, whether you prefer savoring fresh oysters on the Northumberland coast or meeting the artisans behind the region’s cheeses, these tours offer memorable ways to taste and learn about local flavors. For a relaxed seaside seafood experience, the coastal tour shines. For a more immersive, behind-the-scenes look at Northumberland’s food scene, the meet-the-makers tour is ideal. Either way, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic culinary journeys.
