Northumberland County

Northumberland County

Characterized by its location on the sandy shores of Lake Ontario, Northumberland County offers an abundance of outdoor activity and culture.

Experience the beauty of nature on hiking trails in the Northumberland County Forest, spend a day fishing for bass on Rice Lake or enjoy an ice cream cone and check out the annual Cobourg Sandcastle Festival down on Cobourg Beach.

Northumberland County also offers an opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and history with a visit to Alderville First Nation, home to the Mississauga Ojibway.

Map of Northumberland County

Where is Northumberland County?

Northumberland County is bordered by Lake Ontario to the south and Rice Lake to the north. The county is located roughly an hour and a half drive away from the Greater Toronto Area and about three hours from Ottawa.

While the region is best explored by car or motorcycle, limited train service is available through VIA Rail, with additional local transport provided by Commuter Connect and Cobourg Transit.

View Northumberland County on Google Maps

Things to do in Northumberland County

Relax on a sandy beach

Northumberland County is known for its lovely beaches. Popular spots include Cobourg Beach, home to the Cobourg Sandcastle Festival, and the sandy shores of Presqu’ile Provincial Park.

Explore mountain biking trails

Gear up and hit the mountain bike trails in the Ganaraska Forest,  featuring hundreds of kilometres of dual and single-track trails including hill climbs and wide forest roads.

Spend a day fishing

With over 350 lakes and rivers, including Rice Lake and Lake Ontario, Northumberland County offers great year-round fishing. Cast a line for muskie, pike, walleye, bass and more.

Traverse a suspension bridge

The Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge spans roughly 91 metres across the Ranney Gorge and Trent River. In the summer, the riverbank is a great spot for turtle-watching.

Learn Indigenous history

Discover the culture of the Mississauga Ojibway people at Alderville First Nation. Book a nature and heritage tour and shop for handicrafts and artwork created by local artists.

Shop for local produce

Housed inside Lola’s Cafe in Brighton, North Gate Organics sells freshly grown organic vegetables alongside the cafe’s daily menu of coffees, cakes, salads and sandwiches.

Points of interest

Discover more highlights this destination has to offer.

Last updated: March 28, 2024

Skip photo gallery

Explore more of Ontario

Tag your photos with #DiscoverON to inspire others.

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.