Five of the best: Beaches in North East England this Summer

18th August 2010

The North East England coastline offers much more than just a day at the seaside...as well as miles of isolated sand, surfing heaven and (sand) castles galore there are also picturesque villages and a buzzing citylife for both visitors and those closer to home to enjoy.

So if you want to get away for less this summer then look no further than North East England. We have tracked down some of the best beaches in the area so if you have a staycation in mind this summer there is every reason to holiday in the north east. 

Build a sandcastle at Bamburgh, Northumberland - Pack your bucket and spade and take your inspiration from this Northumberland village’s magnificent castle that towers 150 ft above the beach. On the idyllic village green the magnificent Norman church stands opposite a museum containing mementos of the heroine Grace Darling. This enormous beach goes on for miles and with trips to the Farne Island group so close at hand from nearby Seahouses, Bamburgh is certainly an essential place to visit.

www.visitnortheastengland.com/site/what-to-see-and-do/attractions/bamburgh-castle-p22591

Have a paddle at Cullercoats - Hundreds of families bring their buckets, spades, beach towels and picnics here to enjoy a day out in the sun. This sandy bay is enclosed by small piers creating an excellent environment for families. The cliffs with geological features provide a dramatic backdrop to the beach and the south of the bay is a launching area for local fishing boats and leisure craft.

http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/tourism.shtml?p_subjectCategory=637

Explore the colourful and dramatic landscape of Durham’s Heritage Coast - Its beaches, rugged cliffs and imposing headlands make it a truly stunning location, the Heritage Coast is recognised internationally for its rare plants and wildlife. Follow the coastal path that runs along much of the coast leading you through a colourful mosaic of grasslands, wildflowers, flora and fauna, through areas of natural, historical and geological interest. Enjoy spectacular views along the coastline and look out across the water as the North Sea air blows away the cobwebs.

http://www.visitnortheastengland.com/site/explore/places-to-go/search-results/durham-coast-p26481

Seclusion at Embleton Bay, Northumberland - This charming village, much of which is owned by the National Trust, is very popular for sailing and windsurfing due to its lovely sandy beach in the sheltered bay and its fine views across Embleton Bay to the imposing ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The area is renowned for its good birdwatching and the local links course is one of the most stunning in the UK. The Ship Inn situated in the village square is a friendly place to stop for lunch on the way down to the beach.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-embletonnewtonlinks.htm

Surfing & Smuggling at Saltburn - The Spa town of Saltburn is well known for its Victorian Buildings, railway station, water powered cliff lift and impressive pier that extends 200 metres for the shoreline but is also one of the best places for beginners to surf and along with nearby Tynemouth was recently named one of the top ten surfing spots in the UK. However the coastline from Whitby to Saltburn by the Sea is famed for its smuggling activities. The rugged coastline hides its secret illicit trading history. Here you can visit the award-winning Saltburn Smugglers' Heritage Centre set in authentic fishermen's cottage and re-live the excitement and danger of those bloodthirsty nights with the sights and sounds of the past.

www.saltburnbysea.com

With miles and miles of glorious sandy beaches and rolling dunes – unspoilt and quiet the North East England coastline is one of the most spectacular in the country. For more information on the north east’s wide range of quality places to stay, eat, drink and visit go to www.visitnortheastengland.com

ENDS

PR Contact: Debbie Sharratt T: 0191 229 6428 debbie.sharratt@onenortheast.co.uk or Hayley Quarmby T: 0191 229 6852 hayley.quarmby@onenortheast.co.uk