Nestled in the northeastern corner of England, Northumberland boasts some of the most stunning coastal landscapes in the UK. From historic castles to charming villages and unspoiled beaches, there’s no shortage of picturesque views and serene trails. Whether you’re looking to embark on a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Northumberland coast offers an array of walking paths that cater to all levels of experience. Join us as we explore some of the most scenic coastal walks in Northumberland, each promising breathtaking vistas and a memorable outdoor experience.
Bamburgh Castle to Seahouses: A Historical Coastal Walk
Starting your journey at Bamburgh Castle, one of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks, this coastal walk to Seahouses offers everything from historic sites to spectacular sea views. Bamburgh Castle, with its dramatic clifftop position overlooking the North Sea, sets the tone for an awe-inspiring walk. You will find ample parking at the castle’s car park, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure.
As you leave the imposing fortress behind, the trail meanders through a series of sandy dunes before leading you onto the expansive Bamburgh Beach. The golden sands stretch for miles, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for the Farne Islands, visible on the horizon, adding another layer of natural beauty to your walk.
Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass through Budle Bay, a haven for bird watchers. The bay is part of the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, famous for its rich biodiversity. As you approach Seahouses, the path becomes a bit more rugged, but the views remain equally compelling. Seahouses itself is a charming fishing village, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a well-deserved rest.
This walk, covering approximately 4 miles, is relatively easy and suitable for all ages. Its blend of history, natural beauty, and wildlife makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Northumberland coast.
Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle: A Walk Through Time
For those who love history intertwined with their walks, the route from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle is a perfect choice. Starting in the picturesque fishing village of Craster, renowned for its kippers, this walk combines coastal beauty with a journey into the past.
The path begins at the Craster car park, where you can leave your vehicle and set off towards the castle. As you follow the trail northward, you’ll be treated to views of the rugged coastline, with the North Sea’s waves crashing against the rocky shore. This walk is particularly scenic in the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Approximately 1.5 miles into the walk, you’ll arrive at the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. Situated on a headland, the castle was once one of the largest and grandest in Northern England. Today, its crumbling towers and walls provide a dramatic contrast to the surrounding natural beauty. The site is managed by English Heritage, and you can explore the ruins and learn about the castle’s history and its role in medieval conflicts.
The walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle is relatively short, covering about 3 miles round trip, making it an ideal day walk for families and history enthusiasts. The path is well-marked and mostly flat, ensuring an enjoyable and accessible walk for all.
Alnmouth to Warkworth: A River and Coastal Ramble
Starting in the charming village of Alnmouth, this walk to Warkworth offers a delightful mix of river and coastal scenery. Alnmouth, with its quaint cottages and picturesque harbour, is a perfect starting point for this journey. The trail begins near the village church, leading you southwards along the coast.
As you follow the path, you’ll walk alongside the River Aln, which eventually merges with the North Sea. The river’s estuary is a haven for birdlife, and you may spot various species, from wading birds to migratory flocks. The path here is well-maintained, making for an easy and pleasant walk.
Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass through Boulmer, another charming village with a rich maritime history. The path then leads you inland slightly, following the river as it winds its way towards Warkworth. This section of the walk offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside, with rolling fields and woodlands providing a peaceful contrast to the coastal scenery.
As you approach Warkworth, the impressive Warkworth Castle comes into view. Perched on a hill overlooking the river, the castle’s well-preserved ruins are a testament to its historical significance. Warkworth itself is a delightful village, with its winding streets and medieval architecture offering a perfect end to the walk.
Covering approximately 6 miles, this walk is moderately easy and can be completed in a few hours. Its combination of coastal and river views, along with charming villages and historic sites, make it a highlight of the Northumberland coastal path.
Berwick-upon-Tweed to Holy Island: A Walk Through AONB
One of the most rewarding walks along the Northumberland coast is the route from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Holy Island. This walk takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), with a rich mix of history, wildlife, and coastal scenery.
Starting in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a town steeped in history with its Elizabethan walls and Georgian architecture, the walk begins by following the coast path southwards. The path offers panoramic views of the North Sea and the rugged cliffs that characterize this part of the coast.
As you continue, the trail takes you through a variety of coastal habitats, from sandy beaches to rocky shores and salt marshes. This diversity makes the walk particularly interesting, as you encounter different landscapes and ecosystems. Keep an eye out for seals and a variety of seabirds that call this area home.
After approximately 10 miles, you’ll reach the tidal causeway that leads to Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne. This island is famous for its history and spirituality, with Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle being major attractions. The island is only accessible at low tide, so be sure to check the tide times before setting off.
The walk from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Holy Island is a longer and more challenging route, covering around 12 miles. However, the effort is well worth it, as the combination of stunning coastal scenery, rich wildlife, and historical landmarks make it one of Northumberland’s most memorable walks.
Hadrian’s Wall Path: A Journey Through History
While not strictly a coastal walk, the Hadrian’s Wall Path offers a unique opportunity to explore Northumberland’s rich history while enjoying breathtaking landscapes. This national trail stretches for 84 miles from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, passing through some of the most scenic parts of Northumberland National Park.
Starting in the village of Heddon-on-the-Wall, the path follows the route of Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. As you walk along the trail, you’ll encounter a series of well-preserved Roman forts, milecastles, and turrets, each offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
The section of the path between Chollerford and Steel Rigg is particularly spectacular, with the wall running along a series of dramatic ridges and crags. The views from the top of Whin Sill, a volcanic rock formation, are especially breathtaking, with expansive vistas stretching across the Northumberland National Park and the surrounding countryside.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages and market towns, each with its own unique character and history. The trail is well-marked and offers a variety of circular walks and shorter sections, making it accessible to walkers of all abilities.
Covering the entire length of Hadrian’s Wall Path is a multi-day adventure, but even tackling a single section provides a rewarding experience. The combination of historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and the sense of walking in the footsteps of history makes this one of Northumberland’s most compelling walks.
Northumberland’s coastal walks offer an incredible array of experiences, each walk providing its own unique blend of natural beauty, history, and wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches near Bamburgh Castle, discovering the ancient ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, or venturing through the diverse landscapes of the Holy Island, Northumberland’s coast is a paradise for walkers.
These trails are suitable for all levels of experience, with easy routes for families and more challenging paths for seasoned hikers. The stunning views, rich history, and the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife make these walks truly special. So, lace up your walking boots, pack a picnic, and set out to explore the scenic coastal walks that Northumberland has to offer.