Top 10 Beaches in Northumberland

The county of Northumberland is famed for its stunning coastline, which stretches from Berwick in the north, down to Seaton Sluice in the south. Classed as a Heritage Coast, many of the region’s seaside areas also lie within what has been officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by Natural England.

Most of the beaches in Northumberland are sandy and range from the busy to the remote, offering great variety. So whether you are looking for a quiet location for relaxation, a place for the kids to play, a great dog walking area, or somewhere to participate in water sports, you are sure to find a suitable option.

Here, we take a look at the top 10 beaches Northumberland has to offer.

The beach below Bamburgh Castle is regularly cited as one of the most spectacular beaches in the whole of the United Kingdom. Backed by large dunes, it contains exquisite white sand and offers breathtaking views of both the castle and Holy Island. Swimming, fishing and water sports are permitted and the beach is also dog-friendly.

Found approximately 15 miles to the northeast of Alnwick, Seahouses is a large coastal village, which attracts many visitors thanks to the great facilities available. Its beach is the village’s main draw and the area to the north of the harbour is most popular, offering crystal clear sand, as well as excellent water quality for bathing.

Ross Back Sands may well be Northumberland’s best-kept secret, due to the fact that it is a 20-minute walk from the nearest car park. A large, unspoilt beach, which is usually deserted, it offers spectacular views outward to Farne Island and Lindisfarne and is also a fantastic place to see seals and other unusual wildlife.

Located on Lindisfarne, Harbour Beach is a popular beach at the south of the island. Its varied terrain contains both sand and rocks and there are plenty of nearby facilities, as well as great fishing spots. However, what truly sets it apart is its views of Lindisfarne Castle and the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, providing great photo opportunities.

For those keen on trying water sports and similar activities, the sandy cove of Beadnell Bay is by far the best option in Northumberland. Its protected waters lend themselves to surfing, sailing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, kite surfing, kayaking and more, while the beach itself is a great place for children to build sandcastles or play games.

The beach at Berwick-upon-Tweed is within easy reach of the town centre, which makes it a good option for those who want facilities nearby. Like most beaches in Northumberland, it has primarily sandy terrain, but high tide exposes an expansive rocky section. It is dog-friendly and also widely considered to be a good location for fishing.

Located just a couple of miles away from Berwick, Cocklawburn is a rural beach, known for its landscape. Although mostly comprised of flat sand, its occasional rocky sections make it a good spot for those with an interest in geology. The beach is popular with families and dog walkers, and is also a hot spot for fossil collectors.

Conveniently situated near a major train station, Alnmouth is a large rural village, and its sandy beach is an incredible spot for relaxation. It has no dog restrictions and is found in the centre of Northumberland’s coast, located roughly half way between Newcastle and Berwick. The village provides great facilities, such as restaurants and pubs.

Lined with beautiful dunes, the privately owned golden sandy beach at Druridge Bay is a superb location for dog walking, or quiet reflection. Stretching for approximately seven miles, it is also one of the county’s most unique offerings, with excellent spots for bird watching and, for the more daring visitor, even an unofficial nudist area!

Situated around a 15 minute walk from the centre of Warkworth village, this sandy beach is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular coastal areas. Ideal for dog walking, fishing, or a casual evening stroll, it also has superb water quality, making it a top choice for those who like to enjoy a swim in the sea.