Just across from the Trent Canal in Campbellford, this Victorian red-brick house is a good base from which to explore the local scenery. Both of the guest rooms have ensuite baths; for luxury, opt for the King Suite, where Persian carpets cover old pine floors and the bathroom has two crystal chandeliers, a double Jacuzzi tub, a sink set in an antique dresser, and a sizable shower. Guests enjoy early morning coffee on the balcony overlooking the canal, then sit down to a gourmet breakfast in the dining room. West of Campbellford, the village of Warkworth’s original main street has several interesting galleries and shops, including the Stone House Gardens (705-924-3652) and the Supreme Bean (705-924-1212), which specializes in fresh-roasted, fair-trade organic coffee. To the east, a real slice of rural life can be seen every Tuesday afternoon at Hoard’s Station on County Road 8, where livestock auctions are held. Community associations take turns cooking the meat-and-potatoes lunch, complete with homemade pie. Plan to arrive by 11:30 a.m. if you want to get a seat. A $4 Northumberland County map from the tourism office (1-800-354-7050) is helpful to those exploring the area.