The Sill: Unspoilt landscapes, inspiring people

The Sill: Unspoilt landscapes, inspiring people

An adult and child stand on decking, looking out over a countryside landscape

Heritage Grants

Haydon and Hadrian
Northumberland
Northumberland National Park Authority
£8147200
Opened in 2017, The Sill is the Landscape Discovery Centre for the Northumberland National Park.

Set in the World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall with spectacular views over the landscape, this iconic building provides a comprehensive programme of education and engagement activities inspiring people to celebrate, value and conserve the natural and cultural wonders of this unique landscape.

As the UK's first dedicated landscape discovery centre, it aims to become a leading heritage education facility for landscape conservation, countryside management, leisure and tourism skills. 

Visitor numbers have already exceeded expectations with an exhibition based around four themes: the human story, the changing landscape, habitats and wildlife, and landform and geology.

Uniquely, the centre also includes a new National Youth Hostel which was an important factor in winning National Lottery support with its ability to attract and accommodate visitors from cities such as Newcastle providing opportunities for young people to visit, explore and stay in the heart of this unique cultural landscape.