The Perfect 2-Day Northumberland County Itinerary: Cobourg, Campbellford & Beyond

Looking To Visit Northumerland County In 2026? Keep Reading For All The Info!

If you’re looking for a relaxing Ontario getaway filled with charming small towns, scenic nature, and local food, then check out this 2-Day Northumberland County Itinerary

This beautiful region offers a perfect mix of lakeside views, rolling countryside, historic downtowns, and outdoor adventures.

This 2-day Northumberland County itinerary takes you through some of the area’s most memorable destinations.

Including the waterfront town of Cobourg, the vibrant community of Campbellford, and several hidden gems in between.

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, a couples’ escape, or simply looking to explore more of Ontario, you’ll find plenty of great places to eat, hike, shop, and unwind.

Where Is Northumberland County Located?

Northumberland County is located in southern Ontario, Canada, along the north shore of Lake Ontario.

It sits between the Greater Toronto Area and Kingston, making it an easy weekend or short road trip destination from many parts of southern Ontario.

The county stretches inland from the lake and includes a mix of small towns, rural countryside, rivers, and provincial parks.

It is best known for its relaxed pace, local food spots, and access to nature. The area feels more rural and quiet compared to nearby cities.

Some of the main communities in Northumberland County include Cobourg, Campbellford, Colborne, and Warkworth.

Cobourg is the largest and sits right on Lake Ontario with a popular beach and historic downtown.

Campbellford is known for Ferris Provincial Park and the Trent River.

Warkworth is a small village with cafés, shops, and an artsy feel, while Colborne is a quieter stop with antique shops and small-town charm.

Day 1: Warkworth + Fells Meadows

Your trip starts in the village of Warkworth, a small arts-focused community in Trent Hills.

It’s the kind of place where you can park once and walk around slowly for a couple of hours.

Millennium Trail

The Millennium Trail in Warkworth is a short, easy walking and multi-use trail that follows Mill Creek right through and just outside the village.

It is about 2.6 km long, and it is flat and very easy to walk. Also, there is free parking at the beginning of the trail.

The trail connects the edge of Warkworth’s main street with a more natural area outside the village, so you move quickly from shops and cafés into a quiet, green setting.

The path passes through a zig-zag wooden bridge, different trees, and open views of the countryside.

On the other side of the creek, we could see a few backyards. The homeowners keep them well-maintained, so they almost look like they are part of the trail.

Because of its location, it’s often used as a relaxed walk before or after exploring the town’s main street.

We were there just before the Warkworth Lilac Festival, and the Millennium Trail was lined with blooming lilacs in full colour.

Including purple, white, and soft pink varieties, which made the walk especially scenic and fragrant.

K OKAY Café & Roasters

After your walk, head into the village for coffee at K OKAY Café & Roasters.

K OKAY Café is a small coffee shop located in the town center of Warkworth.

It’s a casual, community-style café that serves coffee, tea, and light food options like baked goods and simple breakfast or lunch items.

We had the Lemon Chicken Artichoke wrap, which was very tasty, as well as the daily soup, which was cream of asparagus and tomatoes.

I had an iced latte with a shot of hazelnut syrup, and my sister had a matcha. The drinks were great as well.

Also, the staff working at K OKAY Café & Roasters were super friendly and helpful.

The café is known for being a comfortable stop for both locals and visitors exploring the village.

It has a relaxed atmosphere where people often sit in or grab something to go before walking along the main street or nearby trails like the Millennium Trail.

Because Warkworth is a small village, K OKAY Café & Roasters is also part of the local social hub, especially during weekends and events like festivals, when the town tends to be busier.

Spencer Books

Spencer Books is a small independent bookstore in the center of Warkworth.

It offers a mix of new and used books, along with a selection of gifts and locally inspired items.

The shop has a cozy, browsing-friendly feel and is a popular stop for visitors exploring the village’s main street.

It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend time looking through shelves without rushing, making it a nice addition to a walk through Warkworth.

It features a mix of contemporary fiction, Canadian authors, and smaller press titles that you might not always find in bigger chain bookstores.

That gives it more of a discovery feel, especially if you enjoy picking up something a bit different or locally relevant.

Because it’s locally owned, it also reflects the village’s arts and community-focused atmosphere, especially alongside nearby shops, cafés, and galleries.

Centre & Main Chocolate

Centre & Main Chocolate is a small artisan chocolate shop.

It focuses on handmade chocolates and small-batch confections, often crafted with attention to both flavour and presentation.

The shop typically offers a selection of truffles, chocolate bars, and seasonal treats.

As well as, giftable items that are popular with visitors passing through the village.

Many of the products are made in small quantities, which gives the shop a more local, handcrafted feel rather than a mass-produced selection.

It’s a quick but popular stop on Warkworth’s main street.

Because of its central location, it often fits easily into a walking route alongside cafés, bookstores, and other small businesses in town.

We ended up getting four different chocolate bars to try and they were all great flavors.

Fells Meadows

In the afternoon, check in to Fells Meadows. Fells Meadows is a 100-acre countryside retreat and nature-based getaway located in Northumberland County.

The property is designed as a space for slowing down and connecting with nature.

It includes a mix of accommodations such as a restored farmhouse, cabins, and a safari tent.

Each space is set within different parts of the land, giving guests privacy and direct access to the surrounding natural environment.

Accommodation Types

Farmhouse (Sleeps 10–12 guests)

The historic 1860s farmhouse is the main gathering space on the property.

It features six bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and large communal living and dining areas.

It’s ideal for groups, retreats, or family getaways where everyone wants to stay under one roof while still having plenty of shared space to relax and connect.

Haven on the Hilltop (Sleeps 2 guests)

This secluded cabin sits high on the property with sweeping valley views.

It includes a loft sleeping area with a double bed and a small main-floor sitting space.

Guests use nearby shared facilities, including the off-grid Hub.

It’s a quiet, romantic escape designed for privacy and reflection.

Haven in the Meadow (Sleeps 2 guests)

Tucked into the edge of the forest, this cozy cabin includes a queen mattress in the loft and a pull-out sofa on the main level.

Also, it has a small writing desk, making it especially popular for creative retreats or peaceful solo stays.

Like the other cabins, it shares access to the Hub for cooking and showering.

This is the lovely cabin that we stayed at for two nights and we really enjoyed it!

White Pine Haven (Sleeps 2 guests)

A small, minimalist bunkie surrounded by white pine trees, White Pine Haven is one of the simplest and off-grid stays on the property.

It includes a double bed and basic lighting, with access to the shared Hub nearby.

Therefore, it’s perfect for guests looking for a quiet, no-frills nature experience.

Rainbow Haven (Safari Tent) (Sleeps 2 guests)

This glamping-style safari tent offers a more unique outdoor experience with a queen bed, seating area, and a small porch overlooking the trees.

It blends comfort with a more immersive nature stay, ideal for those who want camping vibes without sacrificing a real bed.

Ammenities

Havens’ Hub (Does not sleep guests)

The Hub is the shared off-grid amenities building for guests staying in the cabins and safari tents.

It includes a small kitchen, solar-powered shower, and compost toilet.

It acts as a central support space for the more rustic accommodations and is where guests cook, wash up, and recharge.

The Yurt – Does not sleep guests (typically used for groups and activities)

The 30-foot yurt is a large circular gathering space used for yoga, workshops, meditation, and group retreats.

With its wooden floor and open design, it’s one of the most peaceful and versatile spaces on the property, often used as a creative or wellness studio surrounded by nature.

Walking Trails

One of the highlights of staying at Fells Meadows is the walking trails that wind through meadows, forest, and open green space.

Making it easy to head out for a quiet morning walk, an afternoon wander, or a peaceful sunset stroll.

The trails are one of the best ways to experience the property and take in how quiet and secluded it feels.

Chartres Stone Labyrinth

The Chartres stone labyrinth is tucked into the landscape as a space for reflection and mindfulness.

Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has one winding path that leads to the centre and then back out again.

It’s intended to be walked slowly and intentionally, often as a meditative practice.

The labyrinth is meant to symbolize the journey through life, and it offers a quiet place to pause, reflect, or simply be present.

🦄 Check out my entire review of Fells Meadows here: Fells Meadows Review: The Perfect Ontario Retreat To Relax, Reset & Recharge

Day 2: Campbellford + Ferris Provincial Park

Day 2, leave Fells Meadows in the morning and head to Ferris Provincial Park.

Ferris Provincial Park

Ferris Provincial Park is a 250-hectare provincial park located along the Trent River in Campbellford.

The park is best known for its scenic trails, river views, and the iconic Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge.

Making it one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Northumberland County.

As you walk through the park, you’ll find a number of lookout points that provide views of the Trent River and the surrounding landscape.

The trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for a range of fitness levels.

This makes the park accessible to both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.

Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge stretches approximately 91 metres (300 feet) across the gorge.

The pedestrian bridge hangs high above the Trent River and connects two sections of the park.

Walking across the bridge offers some of the best views in the area, with the river flowing below and the tree-covered gorge extending in both directions.

Also, the park is home to several small waterfalls and rapids created by the movement of water through the gorge and around the nearby dam system.

While they are not large waterfalls, they add to the park’s scenery and can be viewed from various trails and lookout areas.

The most popular is the Ranney Falls, which is easy to get to via one of the paths.

Usually, you would have to pay to park in Ferris Provincial Park.

However, enter from Trent Drive, and there is free parking right beside the bridge.

Giant Toonie Monument

After the park, head into Campbellford, which is less than 10 minutes away by car.

The Giant Toonie Monument is one of Campbellford’s most recognizable landmarks.

Located in Old Mill Park along the Trent River, it is a massive replica of Canada’s two-dollar coin.

It stands about 8.2 metres (27 feet) tall and 5.5 metres (18 feet) in diameter.

The monument was built in 2001 to honour local wildlife artist Brent Townsend.

He created the iconic polar bear image that appears on the reverse side of every Canadian toonie.

The monument celebrates Campbellford’s connection to Canadian currency and has helped earn the town the nickname “Home of the Two-Dollar Coin.”

The giant coin features the familiar polar bear design and sits in a riverside park where you can walk, take photos, and enjoy views of the Trent River.

While it only takes a few minutes to visit, it has become a symbol of Campbellford.

As well as a fun roadside attraction that highlights a unique piece of Canadian history.

Capers Tap House (lunch)

Capers Tap House is a casual restaurant located in downtown Campbellford along the Trent River.

It is housed in a renovated heritage home dating back to the late 1800s.

The restaurant has been serving locals and visitors for more than 20 years and has become one of the town’s best-known places for lunch and dinner.

You’ll find a mix of pub favourites, burgers, seafood, sandwiches, salads, and daily specials, along with a selection of craft beer, wine, and cocktails.

The restaurant is known for changing its featured menu regularly, so there is often something new to try.

One of the things that makes Capers a popular stop is its location.

The restaurant sits near the bridge and river, and during warmer months, you can enjoy the outdoor patio.

Inside, the dining rooms have a comfortable, welcoming feel that works equally well for a casual lunch after visiting Ferris Provincial Park.

We had the French Onion Soup, and I had the bison burger with the house salad, and my sister had the catch of the day.

Dooher’s Bakery

Dooher’s Bakery is a long-standing family-owned bakery in Campbellford and one of the most famous stops in Northumberland County.

It was originally founded in 1949 and has been run by multiple generations of the Dooher family.

The bakery is best known for its fresh, made-from-scratch baked goods.

Everything is prepared daily on-site, including bread, muffins, cookies, pies, butter tarts, and pastries.

One of its most popular items is its donuts, especially the cream-filled varieties, which often sell out early in the day.

Because of this, many visitors arrive first thing in the morning to avoid missing out.

Inside, the bakery is busy and fast-paced, especially on weekends and holidays. There is usually a steady lineup of both locals and tourists.

Despite that, the service is known for being efficient, and the selection is wide enough that there is usually something for everyone.

I have been to this bakery before, and everything tastes so good. We had the Boston Cream donuts and Butter Tarts this time around.

Toasted Toad Café

Toasted Toad Café is a small casual café in Campbellford, located near the downtown area, close to the Trent River.

It’s best known as a quick and easy stop for coffee, sandwiches, and light meals.

Especially for people exploring nearby spots like Ferris Provincial Park or the Giant Toonie monument.

What is interesting about this coffee shop is that its walls are filled with frog-inspired art.

Including paintings and whimsical décor that tie into the café’s name and give the space a fun, slightly quirky personality.

This coffee shop is new in the area; there used to be a sub sandwich shop there before.

The café has a relaxed, no-fuss setup where you can grab something to go or sit down for a simple meal.

The menu typically focuses on café-style comfort food such as coffee drinks, baked goods, and basic lunch items like sandwiches and wraps.

In addition, they have a large selection of sub sandwiches, milkshakes, frappes, paninis, etc.

It’s not a large restaurant, but more of a convenient local spot for visitors and residents passing through the area.

I had a Toasted Toad Coffee Latte cold, and my sister had the Toasted Toad Tea Latte warm.

Church-Key Brewing Company

Church-Key Brewing Company is a craft brewery located just outside downtown Campbellford.

It is set inside a historic building that was originally a 1878 Methodist church, which gives the brewery a unique and memorable atmosphere.

The brewery was founded in 2000 and is known for being one of the first microbreweries in the region.

It produces small-batch, handcrafted ales using traditional brewing methods and simple ingredients like malted barley, hops, yeast, and water.

Some of its most well-known beers include its flagship Northumberland Ale and other seasonal or specialty brews.

You can stop by the brewery to sample beers in the tasting room and learn more about the brewing process.

Also, the space includes a retail area where you can purchase beer to take home.

We sampled all the available options and ended up buying a bunch of beer to go as well. My favourite was the Irish Red Ale.

Empire Cheese & Butter Co-op

Empire Cheese & Butter Co-op is a long-standing cheese factory and retail shop located just outside Campbellford.

It is one of the last remaining working cheese plants in the region.

It has been operating in various forms since the late 1800s, with its current co-op established in the 1950s.

The business produces a wide variety of cheeses on-site, including cheddar, mozzarella, and specialty flavoured cheeses.

You can often see shelves filled with different ages of cheddar, from mild to extra old, along with cheese curds that are especially popular.

In addition to cheese production, the on-site store also sells butter, eggs, jams and other local food products.

It functions as both a production facility and a retail stop, so visitors are able to buy directly from the source.

I got the Smoked Gouda (which is my fav type of cheese) and the Cheddar & Mozzarella with Salsa, which I have never seen before.

The Shop (Pizza dinner)

We stopped at The Shop on our way back to Fells Meadows to grab dinner.

The Shop in Warkworth is a casual pizza restaurant located in the village’s center.

It focuses on handcrafted, sourdough-style pizzas made in-house, with dough that is prepared and fermented on site for a distinct texture and flavour.

Also, they have a signature sauce that is made with San Marzano Tomatoes and a blend of herbs and spices.

The menu centres around pizza, along with a selection of simple sides and shareable dishes such as wings, garlic bread, etc.

The space has a relaxed, small-town dining feel, with a laid-back atmosphere that works well for both sit-down meals and takeout.

In warmer months, there is also outdoor seating that adds to the casual dining experience.

We ordered the Pesto & Goat Cheese, and it was really good, and so was the garlic dip.

🦄 If you need more info about Toronto, check out these blog posts:
10 Things To Know Before Going To Toronto (From A Local)
7 Mistakes Visitors Make When Visiting Toronto + Tips On How To Avoid Them
What Language Is Spoken In Toronto?
What Are 10 Interesting Facts About Toronto? (From A Local)
What Are People From Toronto Called?

Day 3: Colborne + Cobourg

On Day 3, check out of the lovely Fells Meadows and head towards Toronto.

Colborne

Colborne is located just north of Highway 401 between Cobourg and Brighton.

While smaller and quieter than some of the region’s larger towns, Colborne has a historic downtown, local businesses, and easy access to the surrounding countryside.

Colborne has maintained its small-town character since its establishment in the early 1800s.

Also, Colborne is famous for its location near several natural attractions, including the nearby apple-growing region known as the Apple Route.

During the fall, the surrounding countryside becomes especially popular for scenic drives, farm markets, and orchard visits.

The Big Apple

The Big Apple is one of Ontario’s most famous roadside attractions and a landmark that many travellers recognize immediately from Highway 401.

Located just outside Colborne, the attraction is centred around a giant apple-shaped structure that stands more than 12 metres (40 feet) tall.

It is considered one of the largest apple-shaped buildings in the world.

The attraction opened in 1987 and was created to celebrate the area’s long history of apple growing.

The giant apple itself is more than just a photo stop. You can walk inside the structure and climb to an observation deck at the top, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside and orchards.

Beyond the giant apple, the attraction has grown into a family-friendly destination with a bakery, pie factory, restaurant, gift shop, mini-golf, outdoor activities, and seasonal attractions.

One of the biggest draws is the bakery, where visitors can watch fresh apple pies being made.

As well as, pick up some of the attraction’s most popular products, including apple pies, apple bread, fritters, turnovers, and other baked treats.

The Counter on King

Then, I would recommend going for lunch at The Counter on King.

It is a café and lunch spot located in the heart of downtown Colborne.

One of the unique things about The Counter on King is that it is located inside Burnham Family Farm Market & Antiques.

Rather than being a standalone restaurant, it is tucked within the antique store.

That creates a unique dining experience where visitors can browse vintage furniture, collectibles, décor, and antiques before or after their meal.

The menu focuses on fresh ingredients and house-made items, with offerings that typically include sandwiches, soups, salads, baked goods, and daily specials.

The owners place an emphasis on quality and scratch-made food, which has helped make it a popular lunch destination in Colborne.

Every day and every week, they have a different special for the day, and that is what you can get that day.

The day that we visited, the daily special was chicken gyros with Greek salad (there were two more options for the side).

My sister had the chicken noodle soup as a side.

For dessert, they had a chocolate chip cookie or a peanut butter one (all homemade).

Also, we tried their homemade lemonade and sweet iced tea, and they were both fantastic.

Alchimista Coffee Bar

Alchimista Coffee Bar is a specialty coffee shop located in downtown Colborne.

It has a very distinctive, mystical-inspired aesthetic that sets it apart from a typical coffee shop.

The space is heavily styled in deep purples and moody tones, with décor that leans into a witchy, alchemy-inspired theme.

Inside, you’ll notice intentional design details that match the “alchemist” concept.

Such as darker colour palettes, themed décor elements that give it a slightly magical, almost apothecary-like vibe.

It focuses on carefully crafted coffee drinks made with high-quality beans.

In addition to espresso-based drinks, Alchimista offers brewed coffee, tea, and a selection of baked goods and light snacks.

Also, they have sandwiches and wraps, smoothies and so on.

The experience is just as much about the atmosphere as it is about the coffee.

I had the Signature Iced Coffee, and my sister had the Matcha.

Cobourg + Beach

Drive from Colborne to Cobourg, which is a lakeside town.

Therefore, Cobourg is best known for its waterfront and sandy beach.

Cobourg Beach is one of the most popular public beaches in the region, with a long boardwalk, marina, and open views of Lake Ontario.

In the warmer months, it becomes a major spot for swimming, walking, and summer events.

The downtown area is walkable and often busy with visitors exploring the shops or heading toward the waterfront.

Also, the town has a historic downtown core with heritage buildings, independent shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Cobourg combines small-town character with a strong tourism draw because of its beach and lake access.

Victoria Hall + Art Gallery

Victoria Hall is a historic civic building located in downtown Cobourg.

It was built between 1856 and 1860 and is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, known for its grand neoclassical architecture and prominent clock tower.

The exterior features detailed stonework, tall columns, and symmetrical design, making it a standout structure in the town’s historic downtown core.

Originally, the building served as Cobourg’s town hall and continues to function as an important community space today.

Inside, it houses municipal offices as well as the free Art Gallery of Northumberland, which features rotating exhibitions from local, regional, and Canadian artists.

The gallery includes both contemporary and traditional artwork, with exhibits that change throughout the year.

Also, the building contains a preserved historic courtroom, which is one of its most interesting rooms.

It features original woodwork and traditional courtroom design elements, offering a glimpse into how justice and civic proceedings once took place in Cobourg.

The room showcases its original character through careful preservation and restoration.

Readers’ Nook Bookstore

Readers’ Nook is an independent bookstore located on King Street West.

It is a community-focused bookshop that sells new books, along with a selection of items like puzzles, greeting cards, magazines, and small gifts.

The store is known for having a curated selection rather than a large chain-style inventory, which makes browsing feel more personal and intentional.

It often hosts book clubs, author events, and community gatherings, which makes it more than just a retail space.

At the back of the shop, there is a dedicated reading nook space.

It’s set up like a cozy corner where customers can sit, flip through books, or take a break before continuing to explore the shelves.

The checkout counter is also one of the more interesting design features.

Instead of a standard retail counter, it is styled to look like a bookshelf, blending into the rest of the store’s aesthetic.

🦄 If you are headed to Toronto next, check out these blog posts:
10 Best Toronto Hotels By CN Tower
Complete Guide To Visiting Casa Loma, Toronto 2024 (From A Local)
12 Fun Activities To Do In Toronto For Adults (From A Local)
Does It Snow In Toronto (From A Local)
How To Get To The Rogers Centre In Toronto (From A Local)?
Lungovita Beach Resort Review

Conclusion: The Perfect 2-Day Northumberland County Itinerary

Northumberland County is an easy place to explore over a couple of days, with each stop offering something a little different.

From the trails and cafés in Warkworth, to the parks, breweries, and local food in Campbellford, and finally the waterfront and historic buildings in Cobourg, the route brings together a mix of nature, small towns, and local experiences.

Each town has its own character, but they all feel connected by a slower pace and a strong sense of community.

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or adding it to a longer Ontario itinerary, Northumberland County is an easy region to return to.