Conservation Areas are 'areas of special architectural or historic interest the character and appearance of which it is desirable to preserve and enhance' (Civic Amenities Act 1967). They are designated by local authorities who judge the ‘specialness’ against local and regional criteria. The first Conservation Areas were created in 1967 and there are currently 69 Conservation Areas in Northumberland.

Conservation Areas are about character and appearance. The special character of these areas does not come from the quality of their buildings alone, but can derive from many factors including individual buildings, building groups and their relationship with open spaces, architectural detailing, materials, views, colours, landscaping and street furniture. Character can also draw on more abstract notions such as sounds, local environmental conditions and historical changes. These things combine to create a distinctive sense of place worthy of protection. Conservation Areas give broader protection than listing individual buildings: all the features listed or otherwise, within the area, are recognised as part of its character.