The Northumberland Coat is often forgotten when it comes to planning a UK staycation but is actually one of the best places for a coastal break in England thanks to it’s wild beaches, dramatic castles, colourful fishing villages and miles of beautiful coastline.
Stretching along the far north-east of England towards the Scottish border, the Northumberland Coast is the sort of place where you can spend the morning exploring a medieval castle, walk along an almost empty beach in the afternoon and finish the day with fish and chips overlooking the harbour.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away, a Northumberland road trip or simply looking for ideas for your next day trip, here are 13 of the best places to visit on the Northumberland Coast.
1. Bamburgh
Bamburgh is a village small enough to explore on foot, with lots of lovely places to eat, cute independent shops and attractive stone buildings. It is most commonly known for it’s castle, Bamburgh Castle, which sits high above the coast and can be seen for miles around. Its position overlooking the sea makes it one of Northumberland’s most recognisable landmarks and must see for tourists.
Bamburgh castle is definitely worth a visit, especially for those that love a bit of history, and thanks to it’s location it is a great attraction to combine with a walk around the village, a spot of lunch and then a trip to Bamburgh Beach, giving you a day that pleases everyone.
2. Holy Island of Lindisfarne
Holy Island island is connected to the mainland by a tidal causeway which disappears beneath the sea at high tide. Once across, you’ll find a small village surrounded by open countryside, coastline and centuries of history.
Two of the best-known sights are Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle, but part of the appeal is simply exploring the island on foot as it is such a unique experience.
This is a must visit but it’s also one of those that you need to plan in advance and be sure that you know the official safe crossing times as the causeway is covered by the sea at high tide, so you should never attempt to cross outside the published safe periods.
3. Seahouses
If you want somewhere that is a bit more lively then Seahouses is the place for you.
It has a beautiful harbour which is the heart of the village and definitely worth exploring, and if time allows you could also enjoy one of the many boat trips that depart from her to the nearby Farne Islands. If you don’t have time for a boat trip then I suggest a nice coastal walk with some fish and chips on the front whilst watching the boats come in and out of the harbour.
4. Beadnell
On the contrary, Beadnell is an excellent choice if you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter.
The village sits beside beautiful Beadnell Bay, a broad sandy beach that’s popular with walkers and watersports enthusiasts.
One of Beadnell’s most distinctive sights is its historic lime kilns beside the harbour. They’re an unusual reminder of the village’s industrial past and make the harbour worth visiting even if you’re not heading onto the water.
Beadnell is particularly lovely in the evening, when you can take a relaxed walk along the bay as the crowds begin to disappear.
5. Low Newton-by-the-Sea
Low Newton-by-the-Sea is one of the prettiest villages on the Northumberland Coast. The village is a National Trust–owned coastal village mostly known for its curved sandy beach at Embleton Bay. It is arranged around a distinctive square of whitewashed cottages overlooking the sea. It is small, peaceful and wonderfully atmospheric.
6. Craster
Craster is a small fishing village with a big reputation. It’s most famous for its smoked kippers, but it’s also the starting point for one of the best-known walks on the Northumberland Coast.
7. Dunstanburgh Castle
Standing on a dramatic headland between Craster and Embleton, the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle are one of the most spectacular sights on the Northumberland Coast.
8. Alnmouth
With colourful houses, a sandy beach and the River Aln meeting the sea, Alnmouth is one of Northumberland’s most attractive coastal villages.
It’s a lovely place to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon. Wander through the village, stop for coffee and then head down towards the beach.
9. Warkworth
Warkworth sits slightly inland from the open coast. The village is dominated by Warkworth Castle which is an English Heritage property so definitely worth a visit if your a member.
Warkworth is also worth visiting if you love riverside walks as it has a beautiful one.
1o. Amble
Amble is great for those that love a harbour and this one has a maritime feel, with fishing boats, a marina and plenty of opportunities to eat by the water.
Amble has lots going on and is great for those that want to break up a road trip between the southern and northern parts of the Northumberland Coast.
11. Druridge Bay
If your idea of a great coastal trip involves huge stretches of sand then Druridge Bay is the one for you. The bay extends for miles along the Northumberland coastline and feels wonderfully open and spacious, great for kids and dogs to let off some energy.
12. Berwick-upon-Tweed
Right near the Scottish border, Berwick-upon-Tweed is one of the most interesting towns in Northumberland, especially for those who love a it of history.
Its location meant England and Scotland fought over the town for centuries, and that history is still visible today.
One of the best things to do in Berwick is to walk around its historic defensive walls where you’ll get views across the rooftops, River Tweed and the gorgeous coastline.
The town’s bridges are another highlight, particularly the Royal Border Bridge.
13. Spittal Beach
Spittal is most likely the last opportunity seaside stop before the Scottish border.
Its long sandy beach has views along the Northumberland coastline and provides a much quieter contrast to exploring Berwick’s historic streets.
How Many Days Do You Need on the Northumberland Coast?
You can see some of the highlights on a day trip, but three to five days gives you much more time to enjoy the area without rushing.
With three days, you could divide your trip roughly between the northern coast around Bamburgh and Holy Island, the central section around Seahouses and Craster, and the southern stretch around Alnmouth, Warkworth and Amble.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Northumberland Coast?
Late spring through to early autumn is a popular time to explore the Northumberland Coast, thanks to longer daylight hours and generally better conditions for walking and sightseeing.
July and August bring warmer weather but also more visitors, particularly around destinations such as Bamburgh, Seahouses and Holy Island so if you prefer quieter, off peak time then may and September may be better for you.
Winter can also be beautiful, especially for dramatic beach walks, although you’ll have shorter days and some attractions may operate reduced opening hours so always check nefoe you travel.
Whatever time of year you visit, bring layers and something waterproof. The weather on the Northumberland coast can change quickly.
What is the prettiest part of the Northumberland Coast?
Bamburgh and the stretch of coastline around Embleton Bay and Dunstanburgh Castle are among the most spectacular parts of the Northumberland Coast. However, places such as Alnmouth, Low Newton-by-the-Sea and Holy Island all offer very different scenery.
Is the Northumberland Coast worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Northumberland Coast combines sandy beaches, historic castles, wildlife, walking routes and small coastal villages, making it particularly good for road trips and short breaks.
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