Coastal Northumberland
The Northumberland coastline is truly unique in its combination of exquisite beauty, buzzing wildlife, rich history, and endless opportunities to take part in once in a lifetime experiences.
Bamburgh and Holy Island
Undoubtedly, the most famous location on the Northumberland coastline is the Bamburgh and Holy Island area, as Lindisfarne (Holy Island) is one of the UK’s most recognisable and notable historic landmarks. The island earned its name through its lengthy religious and monastic history, dating back to the 7th century. You can learn about this by visiting the Lindisfarne Priory, and seeing the Lindisfarne Gospels, which have survived since the Anglo-Saxon era.
If nature and wildlife is more your thing, Holy Island is home to its own National Nature Reserve. It is vital to note that the island is only accessible twice a day, and visitors must check tide times before driving across the natural causeway to visit.
Lindisfarne & Bamburgh Castles
Holy Island is also home to Lindisfarne Castle, which is unsurprising given that Northumberland is home to more castles than any other county. As a result of its vast number of historical attractions, much of the Northumberland seaside is classed within the ‘Heritage Coastline’. One such landmark is Bamburgh Castle, which rises from the centre of the beach, providing an epic backdrop to your coastal retreat. Northumberland Coastal Cottages are located within walking distance of the path if this is a part of the world you fancy exploring.
Peace and quiet
If rest and relaxation is what you’re looking for, then Northumberland can provide that too. Much of the coastline is deserted, so you can get lost in the sound of waves and the feeling of sand between your toes with nothing to distract you.
If you chose to bring a canine friend along with you on your restful getaway, you must be wary of the few restrictions that are in place against dogs on the beaches. Amble Little Shore, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea and Tynemouth have restrictions between May and September. There are also dog zoning rules on Lindisfarne between these same months to protect shorebirds. Across Northumberland, however, there are clear signposts to inform you of the specific restrictions on dogs.
