Which beaches in Northumberland are best for long walks?

Druridge Bay is one of the longest, running for several miles with uninterrupted space. Bamburgh Beach also offers a wide stretch of sand with plenty of room to walk. Beadnell Bay provides a slightly more enclosed route but still covers a large area.

What makes Bamburgh a popular location?

Bamburgh combines a large open beach with one of the most recognisable castles on the coast. The setting is simple, with direct access to the shoreline from the village. It works well as a base if you want immediate access to both beach and views.

What is Seahouses known for?

Seahouses is a working harbour town with access to the Farne Islands. It is one of the main departure points for boat trips along the coast. It also provides practical access to nearby beaches and coastal routes.

Are there coastal walking routes in Northumberland?

Yes, the Northumberland Coast Path runs along much of the coastline. It links towns, beaches and key landmarks such as castles and headlands. The route is generally straightforward, with long open sections between access points.

Are there family-friendly beaches in Northumberland?

Yes, Bamburgh and Beadnell are among the most accessible. They provide straightforward access and large open areas. This makes them suitable for spending longer periods by the coast.

What is Berwick-upon-Tweed like as a base?

Berwick-upon-Tweed is a larger town near the Scottish border. It combines coastal access with historic features such as town walls. It works well if you want a mix of town facilities and coastline.

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Coastal towns, beaches and highlights in Northumberland

Coastal towns and bases

Northumberland’s towns are smaller and more spread out than many other coastal regions. Bamburgh is one of the best known, set below its castle with direct access to a wide beach. Seahouses near Beadnell acts as a practical base with boat trips and harbour access, while Alnmouth offers a quieter setting at the mouth of the River Aln. Further north, Berwick-upon-Tweed provides a larger town with a mix of coastal and historic features.

Beaches and open coastline

The North East coastline is known for its wide, open beaches, often with very little development directly behind them. Bamburgh Beach is one of the most recognisable, with a long stretch of sand and views of the castle. Druridge Bay runs for several miles further south, offering uninterrupted space, while Beadnell Bay provides a more curved, sheltered setting. Even in peak periods, many of these beaches feel uncrowded due to their size. For more options browse our beach guide which details facilities and dog friendliness.

Points of interest and exploring the area

Northumberland stands out for its coastal landmarks, iconic castles and wildlife. Bamburgh Castle sits directly above the beach, while Dunstanburgh Castle can be reached on foot along the coast from Craster. Offshore, the Farne Islands are accessible by boat from Seahouses and are known for wildlife and birdlife. The Northumberland Coast Path links much of the shoreline, allowing you to explore different sections without needing to cover long distances in a single day.