With farmers' markets, river rowing, and a host of boutique shops and places to eat, Morpeth's inclusion on the Best Places to Live in the UK won't be a surprise to anyone who already lives there.
The list, which was published this morning, selected 70 of the best places to live across the country, with the historic market town getting the nod alongside Tynemouth in North Tyneside. Judges celebrate improving towns, village or city centres; attractive, well-designed homes and locations bursting with community spirit.
The Times wrote: "The new cut-price Lumo train service adds convenience to the charm of a hearty Northumberland market town, which already appeals for its good-looking houses, strong sporting scene and a community eager to get involved in activities such as the community cinema or annual picnic in the park. Surrounding villages such as Longhorsley and Belsay are, if anything, even more attractive."
We've taken a look at the properties for sale in and around Morpeth and picked five that particularly stood out. Here they are!
Read more: Sunday Times names two North East towns among the best places to live in the UK
8 bed detached house at Hepscott Park
A ten minute drive from Morpeth town centre, where a luxurious 8-bedroom house now stands was originally built as a maternity hospital in 1937. The house has been created with accessibility in mind and there's a hydrotherapy swimming pool and leisure suite which has been adapted to accommodate adults with disabilities.
There are even two annexes which could be used for guests, dependent relatives, or in-house carers. Guide price £1,650,000 - see the full listing here.
4 bed detached house in Longhorsley
Longhorsley is around 7 miles from the centre of Morpeth, and was namechecked by the Times as one of the 'even more attractive' areas surrounding Northumberland's county town. This 'eco' property has incredible views from many parts of the house, not least the huge cathedral windows in the living room.
Above the living room, there's a mezzanine which looks down over the lounge and dining area, providing another angle to admire the landscape through the cathedral window. Offers over £600,000 - see the full listing here.
5 bed detached house in Whalton
You can get to Whalton in less than 15 minutes from Morpeth if you're travelling by car. This five-bedroom home is also within easy driving distance of Ponteland, while beauty spots such as Bolam Lake are nearby too.
The 5-bed house has a large kitchen and dining room, living room , and a spacious garden. Offers in the region of £695,000 - see the full listing here.
5 bed detached house on Thorp Avenue
This family home is within walking distance of central Morpeth. It has wrap-around cottage-style gardens which are irresistible when the weather's good.
With three reception rooms, a huge kitchen and a dining room, it's perfect for having family and friends over to stay. Offers in region of £650,000 - see the full listing here.
1 bed flat on Cheviot Court
Here's one for people who might be looking to get their foot on the property ladder. The one bedroom ground floor flat is just a six minute walk from Morpeth's train station and has a fitted ktichen, double bedroom and bathroom.
There's access to communal gardens and a single garage too. Priced at £85,000 - see the full listing here.
