Northumberland looking for an autumnal glow

The county also becomes a wildlife watcher's paradise at this time of year and is home to birds of prey such as falcons, hawks and buzzards.

Flocks of birds also begin to arrive back from the Arctic and Iceland, while others such as the swallow and house martin are leaving for the south.

Northumberland Tourism's marketing manager Jude Leitch said: "Autumn in Northumberland is well-known for its brilliant colours and rich wildlife, but there is so much more on offer for people planning a break or a day out. We want to showcase all that Northumberland has to offer at this time of year and invite people to celebrate Autumn Warmth."

Among the highlights of the campaign, both occasional ramblers and seasoned hikers can enjoy upcoming walking festivals and guided walks in the region.

Events include the Morpeth Riverside Walking Festival, which runs until September 27, the Haltwhistle Walking Festival beginning on October 10, and Wooler Walk Weekend in November.

Artists including photographers and painters have for centuries drawn inspiration from the county's spectacular landscape and the quality of its light. Watercolour painter William Turner is among a pantheon of celebrated artists who loved Northumberland and many contemporary artists continue to be inspired by the region.

Mary Ann Rogers, a painter based in North Tyne, said: "Northumberland comes visually to life as the days shorten, the heather blooms, the bracken begin to turn gold, and the unpredictable weather creates the sudden drama which inspires my landscape painting."

There are plenty of art courses such as those offered by Fifiefofum near Corbridge, or the Jinty Painting School, based between Rothbury and Morpeth.

For more information about the Autumn Warmth campaign, visit www.visitnorthumberland.com/autumn.

Pictured: Autumn leaves at Sidwood Forest near Greenhaugh