Q&A

What could guests do on holiday if they stayed at Wonderland?

Upon stepping through the looking-glass and into Wonderland, you are perfectly poised for a grand adventure that blends the whispers of history with the call of the wild. You might choose to explore Berwick's rich past by strolling along the ancient Elizabethan Town Walls, where you'll be treated to a rather curious view of the town. Or, for a more tranquil time, one might take a leisurely saunter along the River Tweed, or build sandcastles on the expansive Spittal Beach. The coastal scenery is quite something, a place where one might spot a seal or a passing dolphin—how delightful! Our peculiar abode is, of course, your launchpad for day trips into the wider realms of Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.

Are there enough activities and attractions in this   area? 

My dear, there are more than enough! It's a place that gets curiouser and curiouser the more you explore. Holidaymakers are drawn here like a White Rabbit to a pocket watch, for Berwick-upon-Tweed holds a unique position as England's most northern town, a place where centuries of stories have been scribbled into the very stones. The well-preserved walls and iconic bridges are a grand attraction. Beyond the history, the unspoiled Northumberland coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering beautiful beaches and stunning scenery for a good ramble. It's truly a strategic and attractive base for exploring both Edinburgh and Newcastle—a tale of two cities, you might say!

What is within walking distance? 

Why, you'll find plenty to see just a few steps from our front door!

• Berwick-upon-Tweed Town Hall: A mere 10-minute stroll, if you're not distracted by a curious butterfly.
• Berwickshire Coastal Path: Just a 7-minute walk, should you feel the need for a good hike.
• Spittal Beach: A delightful 15-20 minute walk to a long, sandy beach and promenade, a perfect spot to watch the world go by.

What is the best place to eat in the area? What is the closest? Any local specialities?

Oh, the food here is a feast fit for a king, with a delightful focus on local produce!

• Local Specialities: One simply must try the fresh seafood, including crab, lobster, and oysters from Holy Island. Don't miss out on traditional smoked kippers and haddock, they're quite the treat. You'll also find grass-fed beef and lamb, along with some marvelous farm-made cheeses, artisan breads and craft ales.
• Closest Place to Eat: You'll find a few cozy pubs and cafes in Tweedmouth, just a short walk away. For the freshest seafood, we recommend The Berwick Shellfish Co in Tweedmouth itself, a fine place to pick up a few treasures to prepare in Wonderland.
• Best Places to Eat: For a more formal repast, we hear excellent whispers about Atelier, Audela, and The Mule on Rouge, while Northern Edge Coffee is quite the rage for a good cup of Joe.

What are the best attractions and places to visit? How far are they? What is the one thing every guest has to visit?

This is a rather tricky question, but we shall do our best!

• Berwick Elizabethan Town Walls: These well-preserved walls are the very heart of the town. A walk along them offers a grand perspective of the River Tweed and the North Sea. This is, without a doubt, the one thing every curious soul has to visit to truly appreciate the history and splendor of the area.
• Berwick Barracks: A short stroll from the town centre, this English Heritage site is a must-see for its intriguing museums.
• Royal Border Bridge: A truly wondrous sight, designed by Robert Stephenson. A marvel of engineering that's best viewed from the riverside.
• Paxton House: A magnificent Georgian country house just a 9-minute drive away, with expansive grounds and gardens.
• Holy Island of Lindisfarne: A truly magical place! About a 20-30 minute drive south, but you must consult the tide times, for the island is only accessible by a tidal causeway. A truly fantastical journey.

What potential things could be worth a trip to visit that are further away?

Ah, for those with a thirst for further adventures!

• Alnwick Castle and Garden (approx. 40 minutes by car): Known to some as "Hogwarts" from the Harry Potter films, it's an absolute must-see for those with a touch of magic in their hearts. The Poison Garden is a particularly peculiar sight!
• Edinburgh (approx. 1 hour by car or train): A grand day trip to the Scottish capital, with its towering castle and Royal Mile, is an adventure in itself.
• Northumberland National Park (approx. 1 hour by car): For those seeking stunning, unspoiled landscapes and a sky full of stars, this national park is a designated Dark Sky Park.
• Farne Islands (approx. 1 hour by car to Seahouses): Take a boat trip from Seahouses to this wonderful haven for wildlife, a place where you can spot puffins, seals, and other curious creatures of the air and sea.