Northumberland Coast

A spectacular stretch of unspoilt coastline featuring dramatic castles, hidden beaches, and charming fishing villages that epitomize English coastal beauty. The area offers excellent walking trails, wildlife viewing, and access to Lindisfarne Island and Bamburgh Castle.

Things to do

• Explore Bamburgh Castle — Climb the iconic Norman keep overlooking Bamburgh Beach for panoramic coastal views and centuries of history.
• Visit Lindisfarne Island — Cross the causeway at low tide to reach this tidal island and its atmospheric ruined priory, a center of early Christian monasticism.
• Walk the Northumberland Coast Path — Traverse 64 miles of scenic coastal trails connecting fishing villages, beaches, and dramatic cliff-top vistas.
• Seal spotting at Craster — Watch grey seals basking on rocks in this working fishing village famous for its traditional kippers.
• Dunstanburgh Castle exploration — Hike through Craster village to reach this dramatic 14th-century castle ruins perched on a rocky headland.
• Wildlife watching at Coquet Island — Take a boat trip from Amble to see puffins, terns, and seals on this protected seabird sanctuary.
• Beach combing at Beadnell Bay — Search golden sands for sea glass and shells while enjoying clear views toward nearby limekilns and dunes.

Food to try

• Craster Kippers — Smoke-cured herrings prepared using the traditional method at this fishing village's historic smokeries, best enjoyed with brown bread and butter.
• Lindisfarne Mead — A traditional honey-based alcoholic drink made on the island, reflecting medieval monastic brewing traditions.
• Fresh Crab from Seahouses — Sample locally-caught crab at harbourside restaurants in this active fishing port, often served simply with mayonnaise and crusty bread.
• Pan-fried Dabs and Plaice — Enjoy these delicate white fish caught daily by local boats, typically prepared simply to showcase the freshness of the daily catch.
• Cullercoats Cream Tea — Indulge in traditional scones with local clotted cream and jam at seaside cafes in this charming fishing village.
• Mussel and Cockle Pies — Seasonal pastry-wrapped shellfish dishes reflecting the coast's bivalve harvesting traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan around tides for Lindisfarne — Access to Lindisfarne Island depends on the tidal causeway being passable; check tide times before visiting or you may be stranded.
• Respect nesting season closures — Several coastal areas close seasonally to protect breeding seabirds and seals; observe all signs and cordoned areas to support wildlife conservation.
• Embrace the fishing heritage — Fishing villages like Craster and Seahouses remain working communities; purchasing from local producers and family-run businesses directly supports these traditions.
• Dress for changeable weather — The coast experiences rapid weather shifts and strong winds even in summer; locals always carry waterproofs and layers regardless of forecast.