Northumberland Coast

Mile upon mile of long, sandy beaches crowned by dramatic castles makes the Northumberland coastline one of the most beautiful in England.

One of England’s most imposing fortresses, Bamburgh Castle towers high above its long white stretch of sandy beach, looking out to the North Sea. In contrast, a little further north is the dramatic and romantic ruin of Dunstanburgh Castle. Both are wonderful settings for coastal walks and picnics.

All along the coastline lie delightful villages, each one filled with individuality and history.

Take Beadnell Bay for example, a charming little fishing village whose 18th-century harbour is the only true west-facing harbour on the east coast of Britain. Or the picturesque village of Craster. home of the famous kippers. Craster is also renowned for herring fishing and nearby Alnmouth boasts superb sandy beaches and a memorable golf course nestling just next to the dunes.

Wonderful sights are not just confined to the mainland. The Farne Islands are home to 100,000 nesting pairs of seabirds and 3,500 grey seals. The Holy Island of Lisdisfarne, with its landmark castle, is regarded as the cradle of English Christianity. Its famous priory was first established in 635AD by St Aidan, and was where the Lindisfarne Gospels were produced and St. Cuthbert first laid to rest.

The islands are just part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a spectacular stretch of coastline running from Berwick-upon-Tweed to the tiny village of Cresswell.

The Northumberland coast has been recognised as a haven for rare and endangered wildlife, from the breeding colonies of terns that can be spotted at Low Newton to the excellent bird watching opportunities at Druridge Bay.