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The Northumberland National Park is the most northern positioned National Park in England. It is one of the most sparsely populated National Parks in Britain and attracts the least amount of visitors per year. Stretching up to the Scottish Border it mainly consists of rural countryside that remains untouched by humanity.
Perhaps the most iconic feature of Northumberland National Park is Hadrian's Wall. Construction of the wall began in AD122 and was commissioned by Roman Emperor Hadrian who wanted to keep the rebels to the Roman rule out of England. It was considered the most heavily fortified border in the Roman Empire.
In the south of the National Park the land is mainly moorland. This area is low lying and temperate with shrubbery and the picturesque Kielder Forest. In the northern reaches of the National Park there are the Cheviot Hills which are a collection of hills that define the border between England and Scotland.
A large percentage of the land in the National Park is owned by the Ministry of Defence which uses the Otterburn Training Area for exercises and practice routines. Only a small area is totally off-limits but other areas can be accessed with special permission or at certain times depending on the training schedules.
The area is very isolated and has few structures or buildings of interest. The main attraction is the mind-blowing scenery and awesome landscape which can only be described as epic. The rolling hills and far-reaching views make it a fantastic place for walkers and those who just want to get away from it all. There are a few natural places of interest such as Sighty Cragg and Hethpool Lake but Northumberland National Park is all about finding peace, tranquility and seclusion. The National Park is within close proximity to the major cities of Hull and York plus it is within traveling distance of the Scottish capital of Edinburgh if you feel the urge to cross the border and venture north.
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