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A beautiful county in the North East of England which borders Scotland, Northumberland boasts famous castles, parks and of course, beaches. The weather up north may not always be as predictable as in other areas but if you’re lucky enough to visit when the sun is shining, these are 10 of the best beaches to visit in Northumberland we would recommend.

1. Bamburgh Castle Beach

This sandy beach is perfect for a long walk and backed by sand dunes. What makes it really special, is the fantastic castle which towers over the beach, having stood guard above the Northumberland coast for thousands of years, the castle is quite the spectacle. If you’re visiting with children, they will most likely be impressed by the collection of arms and armour on display. This beach is also great for rock pooling and surfing, it is said to be a consistent spot for good waves and there is surf hire and lessons available. 

2. Druridge Bay

Running from Amble to Cresswell (where the Northumberland Coast Path begins), this seven mile sweep of beach is a great place to walk, cycle or surf, explore and appreciate the beautiful landscapes. There is also Druridge Bay Country Park which includes beach and sand dunes, a 100 acre lake surrounded by woods and meadows, a café and a children’s play area. The Bay is also a haven for birdwatchers and can only be described as a natural beauty of Northumberland.

3. Seahouses Beach – Best Beaches to Visit in Northumberland

Approximately midway between Bamburgh Castle and Beadnell, Seahouses is a town popular with tourists and locals. With a harbour said to be built in the late 19th century that today provides shelter to many fishing boats and boasts boat trips to the Farne Islands where you may spot puffins, grey seals and even sometimes dolphins or whales, this area cannot be missed. If you are in need of some tranquillity and are looking for a beach with big open skies, this is for you.

4. Embleton Bay

Golden sand, unspoiled, backed by low dunes; Embleton Bay is a gem on the Northumberland coast. Wildlife is thriving here, with plants in the dunes including cranesbill, bedstraw, potentilla, wild thyme and wild vetch. There are also bay cliffs which are a breeding site for seabirds such as kittiwake and eider ducks. Embleton also overlooks ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and was actually voted as the best beach in the UK in 2017 by BBC’s Countryfile Magazine readers. It is also a dog friendly beach, so the pups can join!

5. Warkworth Beach

Less than a mile away from the historic village of Warkworth, this beach boasts long stretches of golden sand. The water is also a great reason to visit this beach as its quality is renowned and if you are interested in surfing there is the Northside Surf School in Amble where you can take lessons here, no matter your ability. Also, across the waters you can see views of Coquet Island, which is now an RSPB reserve.

6. Blyth Beach

At Blyth South Beach there is lots to do for families, groups of friends, or if you just fancy a day out by yourself. The beach has a zone for water sports such as jet-skiing, yachting and surfing- and yes you’ve probably guessed it, there is a surf school on this beach too! The beach itself is long, wide and full of golden sand, backed by sand dunes which are filled with wildlife and is a designated area of Special Nature Conservation. Maybe the most amazing aspect of this beach is the fact that marine life such as dolphins, seals and porpoises are known to frequent the area, so if you’re lucky you may just spot them.

7. Spittal Beach

On the Northumberland coast about half a mile south of Berwick-upon-Tweed is Spittal, which since the 18th century has been said to be a popular spa and bathing resort. This beach lies within an Area of Outstanding Beauty, it is backed by a promenade and stretches down from the mouth of the River Tweed to the cliffs at Bear Head. Within Spittal, you will find a family fun centre, shops, restaurants and cafés, or if you’re looking for more facilities you can make the short journey to Berwick-upon-Tweed.

8. Alnmouth Beach

Gaining its name from its location, sitting in a wide sandy bay at the mouth of the River Aln, Alnmouth Beach is in front of the pretty little village of Alnmouth. Although swimming is not normally recommended at this beach and is particularly dangerous towards the estuary mouth on a dropping tide, the scenery is beautiful and the area is perfect for a long summer’s walk or an afternoon exploring the wildlife.

9. Beadnell Bay Beach

In a horseshoe shaped bay just south of the village of Beadnell, is this wide and sandy beach. Beadnell is very popular for holidaymakers due to a large caravan park and plenty of other accommodation in the area, as well as the attractions it boasts such as a sailing club, shops for water sport equipment and a harbour where you will find places to eat. The beach is great for swimming, as well as sailing, windsurfing and kite surfing; a lovely choice for a staycation!

10. Cresswell Beach

This beach is set on the southern edge of Druridge Bay and is known to be one of the best on the Northumberland coast due to the fact it is largely unspoilt and other than at the height of the summer, never seems to get too busy. The sand is backed by extensive sand dunes and when there is a low tide, there are also some rocky areas which are great for rock pooling, the beach is also said to be good for fishing. Dogs are also allowed here so this is a great option if you’re looking for a pretty walking area.

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