10 Best Beaches in Northumberland, UK 🇬🇧: My Top Best Beaches with Hotels

Northumberland’s coastline is home to some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the UK, stretching as far as the eye can see. From the majestic Bamburgh Castle overlooking golden sands to pretty little coves sheltered behind small cliffs, the beaches on the Northumberland coast offer something for every visitor. Whether you’re seeking a quiet picnic on the shore, a brisk walk along the coastal path, or a day of family fun backed by a promenade, Northumberland’s beaches deliver in spades.

This article will guide you through some of the best beaches this stunning region has to offer. So pack your bucket and spade, and get ready to explore the diverse and captivating beaches of Northumberland.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Northumberland 💎 :

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Newton Hall
• ✨ 5-Star: The Whittling House
• 🏨 4-Star: Beadnell Towers Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel
• 💸 Cheap: Westlea Guest House
• 🏢 Apartment: Pintail Apartment
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Pinetree Lodge Druridge Bay
• 🏩 For Couples: The Joiners Arms

1. 🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches in Northumberland

🏰 Bamburgh Beach – Best for Iconic Views

Bamburgh Beach offers a stunning view of the iconic Bamburgh Castle. The beach stretches for miles with golden sand and plenty of space for activities. It’s perfect for beach games, kite flying, and soaking in the sea air. At low tide, fascinating rock pools emerge, teeming with marine life. The beach is part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s popular year-round but especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. The nearby village of Bamburgh offers amenities and dining options. This beach is ideal for history buffs, families, and nature lovers alike.

Best Hotels Near Bamburgh Beach 🏨

• The Victoria Hotel – This charming hotel is located in the heart of Bamburgh, just a short walk from one of the best beaches in Northumberland. It offers comfortable rooms with views of Bamburgh Castle and serves locally sourced food in its restaurant. The hotel’s proximity to Bamburgh Beach makes it perfect for those looking to explore the golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see.
• The Sunningdale Hotel – Situated in Bamburgh, this hotel offers stunning views of the coast and is just a few minutes’ walk from Bamburgh Beach. It features comfortable rooms and a cozy lounge area perfect for relaxing after a day of beach exploration. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Bamburgh Castle.
• Pintail Apartment – This self-catering apartment in Bamburgh offers a home-away-from-home experience close to Bamburgh Beach. It provides modern amenities and is ideally located for exploring the Northumberland coast. The apartment’s proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it perfect for families or couples seeking a secluded Northumberland getaway.

🏞️ Embleton Bay – Best for Scenic Walks

Embleton Bay is renowned for its views of Dunstanburgh Castle ruins. The bay features a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for walks and picnics. It’s a photographer’s paradise, especially during golden hour. The beach is part of the Northumberland Coast Path, offering great hiking opportunities. Embleton Bay is less crowded than some other beaches, providing a more peaceful experience. It’s great for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. The nearby village of Embleton offers charming pubs and accommodations. This beach is ideal for those seeking a mix of history, nature, and tranquility.

Best Hotels Near Embleton Bay 🏨

• The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel – Located in Embleton, this hotel offers easy access to the beautiful Embleton Bay and its secluded beach. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle provides guests with stunning coastal views and historical intrigue.
• Newton Hall – This luxurious boutique hotel is situated near Embleton Bay, offering unique themed rooms and beautiful grounds. It’s perfect for special occasions and provides easy access to one of the best beaches in Northumberland. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the picturesque Northumberland countryside.
• Cabin Walk – This cozy cabin offers a unique stay near Embleton Bay, providing a peaceful retreat with easy beach access. It features modern amenities and is ideal for those seeking a quiet getaway. The cabin’s location allows guests to enjoy the secluded Northumberland coastline and nearby attractions.

🌿 Druridge Bay – Best for Diverse Activities

Druridge Bay boasts a 7-mile stretch of pristine sand backed by dunes. The adjacent Druridge Bay Country Park offers additional amenities and activities. It’s perfect for swimming, surfing, and various water sports. The beach is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Druridge Bay is less developed, offering a more natural beach experience. It’s great for long walks and enjoying the diverse coastal ecosystem. The beach hosts various events throughout the year, including triathlons. It’s ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a wilder beach experience.

Best Hotels Near Druridge Bay 🏨

• The Plough Inn – This traditional inn is located in Ellington, a short drive from Druridge Bay. It offers comfortable rooms and a pub serving local ales and hearty meals. The inn’s location provides easy access to the seven-mile stretch of golden sand at Druridge Bay, perfect for long beach walks.
• The Gull & Puffin – Situated in Amble, this hotel is close to the southern end of Druridge Bay. It offers modern rooms and a restaurant with sea views. The hotel’s location allows guests to explore both Amble harbour and the beautiful Druridge Bay Country Park.
• 8 The Pines – This holiday home in Widdrington offers a comfortable stay near Druridge Bay. It provides self-catering facilities and is ideal for families or groups. The property’s location allows easy access to both the beach and nearby nature reserves.

🎨 Alnmouth Beach – Best for Village Charm

Alnmouth Beach is backed by the picturesque, colorful village of Alnmouth. The beach is where the River Aln meets the sea, creating a unique coastal landscape. It’s wide and sandy, perfect for families and beach games. The beach offers beautiful views of the Northumberland coastline. Alnmouth village provides easy access to amenities and dining options. It’s a great spot for watching boats and enjoying coastal wildlife. The beach is popular for water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Alnmouth Beach is ideal for those who enjoy combining beach time with village exploration.

Best Hotels Near Alnmouth Beach 🏨

• The Red Lion Inn – This charming inn is located in the heart of Alnmouth, just a short walk from Alnmouth Beach. It offers cozy rooms and a restaurant serving local seafood. The inn’s location at the mouth of the River Aln provides guests with easy access to both the beach and the picturesque village.
• Westlea Guest House – This guest house in Alnmouth offers comfortable accommodation close to Alnmouth Beach. It provides a homely atmosphere and is perfect for those seeking a quiet coastal retreat. The guest house’s location allows easy access to the beach and local golf course.
• The Whittling House – This boutique hotel in Alnmouth offers stylish rooms and a restaurant serving locally sourced food. It’s located just a short walk from Alnmouth Beach, which is perfect for a quiet beach day. The hotel’s design incorporates elements of Alnmouth’s history as a popular spa and bathing resort.

🦅 Cresswell Beach – Best for Wildlife Watching

Cresswell Beach offers a more secluded and unspoiled beach experience. It’s located at the southern end of Druridge Bay, providing miles of sandy shoreline. The beach is backed by dunes and grasslands, rich in wildlife. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching and nature photography. Cresswell Beach is less crowded, perfect for peaceful walks and quiet contemplation. The nearby Cresswell Pond is a haven for migratory birds. This beach is great for fossil hunting and collecting sea glass. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil beach experience.

Best Hotels Near Cresswell Beach 🏨

• Captain's Lodge – This lodge is located in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, a short drive from Cresswell Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and sea views. The lodge’s location provides easy access to both Cresswell Beach and the Northumberland Coast Path.
• Fisherman's Cottage – This cozy cottage in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea offers a charming stay near Cresswell Beach. It provides self-catering facilities and is perfect for couples or small families. The cottage’s location allows guests to explore the secluded Cresswell Beach and nearby nature reserves.
• The Portland – Located in Ashington, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and is a short drive from Cresswell Beach. It features a restaurant and bar serving local cuisine. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and nearby attractions like Woodhorn Museum.

🏄‍♀️ Beadnell Bay – Best for Water Sports

Beadnell Bay is known for its horseshoe shape and popularity among water sports enthusiasts. It’s one of the best places in Northumberland for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. The beach is backed by sand dunes, offering shelter and picnic spots. Beadnell Harbor, the only west-facing harbor on the east coast, adds charm. The bay is great for swimming and bodyboarding when conditions are right. It offers beautiful views of Dunstanburgh Castle in the distance. The nearby village of Beadnell provides amenities and accommodations. This beach is perfect for active beachgoers and water sports lovers.

Best Hotels Near Beadnell Bay 🏨

• Beadnell Towers Hotel – This charming hotel is located just a short walk from Beadnell Bay, one of Northumberland’s best beaches. It offers stylish rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a bar with a selection of local ales. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and Beadnell Harbour makes it ideal for coastal walks and water sports enthusiasts.
• The Joiners Arms – Situated near Beadnell Bay, this boutique inn offers luxurious rooms and a gastropub. It’s located in the picturesque village of High Newton-by-the-Sea, providing easy access to both the beach and countryside. The inn’s cozy atmosphere and proximity to attractions like Dunstanburgh Castle make it perfect for romantic getaways.
• Farnhomle Annex Cottage – This cozy cottage is located near Beadnell Bay, offering a home-away-from-home experience. It features a fully equipped kitchen and a garden, making it ideal for self-catering holidays. The cottage’s location provides easy access to Beadnell’s beautiful beach and is perfect for families or couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

🏰 Warkworth Beach – Best for Peaceful Walks

Warkworth Beach is unique as it’s where the River Coquet meets the North Sea. The beach is overlooked by the medieval Warkworth Castle, adding historical interest. It’s a long, sandy beach perfect for walks and beachcombing. The estuary area is rich in birdlife, making it great for birdwatching. Warkworth Beach is less crowded, offering a peaceful coastal experience. It’s a good spot for fishing, especially sea trout in the river mouth. The nearby village of Warkworth offers charming tearooms and shops. This beach is ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter beach day.

Best Hotels Near Warkworth Beach 🏨

• Warkworth House Hotel – This elegant hotel is situated in the historic village of Warkworth, just a short drive from Warkworth Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a highly-rated restaurant serving local specialties. The hotel’s location near Warkworth Castle and the River Coquet makes it an excellent base for exploring the area’s history and natural beauty.
• Bertram's – This charming bed and breakfast is located in Warkworth, close to Warkworth Beach. It offers cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast featuring local produce. The B&B’s central location in Warkworth provides easy access to the village’s amenities and attractions, including the 12th-century Warkworth Castle.
• The Wellwood – Situated in Amble, this guesthouse is a short drive from Warkworth Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a bar serving local beers. The guesthouse’s location near Amble Harbour and the Northumberland Coast Path makes it ideal for those looking to explore the coastline and enjoy fresh seafood.

⛵ Seahouses Beach – Best for Island Excursions

Seahouses Beach itself is a lovely stretch of sand with views of the Farne Islands. It’s the departure point for boat trips to the Farne Islands, famous for puffins and seals. The beach offers great views of Bamburgh Castle to the north. Seahouses harbor adds character and charm to the beach experience. It’s a popular spot for families due to its amenities and easy access. The town of Seahouses is known for excellent fish and chips and seafood restaurants. This beach is great for rock pooling at low tide. It’s perfect for those interested in wildlife boat trips and traditional seaside towns.

Best Hotels Near Seahouses Beach 🏨

• The Olde Ship Inn – This traditional inn is located in the heart of Seahouses, just steps away from the beach. It offers cozy rooms with nautical themes and a pub serving local ales and seafood. The inn’s proximity to the harbour makes it perfect for those interested in boat trips to the Farne Islands.
• Beach House Hotel – Overlooking Seahouses harbour, this hotel offers stunning sea views and easy access to the beach. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant specializing in fresh, locally-caught seafood. The hotel’s location provides an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Bamburgh Castle and Holy Island.
• Chandlers B&B – This cozy bed and breakfast is situated in Seahouses, a short walk from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast to start your day. The B&B’s central location in Seahouses makes it convenient for accessing local amenities and booking boat trips to see the puffins on the Farne Islands.

🦕 Cocklawburn Beach – Best for Geology Enthusiasts

Cocklawburn Beach is a hidden gem near Berwick-upon-Tweed, known for its geological features. The beach boasts fascinating rock formations and is great for fossil hunting. It’s less crowded, offering a more secluded beach experience. At low tide, extensive rock pools are revealed, perfect for exploration. The beach offers beautiful views of the Northumberland coastline. It’s a popular spot for dog walking and is dog-friendly year-round. Cocklawburn is part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This beach is ideal for geology enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, nature-focused beach day.

Best Hotels Near Cocklawburn Beach 🏨

• Belmont House Boutique – This boutique hotel is located in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a short drive from Cocklawburn Beach. It offers elegantly decorated rooms and a garden with sea views. The hotel’s proximity to Berwick’s historic town walls and Spittal Beach provides guests with a variety of attractions to explore.
• The Old Vicarage – This charming guesthouse is situated in Berwick-upon-Tweed, close to Cocklawburn Beach. It offers comfortable rooms in a historic building surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• The Roxburgh – This guest house in Berwick-upon-Tweed offers comfortable accommodation near Cocklawburn Beach. It features rooms with sea views and is known for its excellent breakfast. The guest house’s location allows easy access to Berwick’s town center and the beautiful Northumberland coastline.

🍬 Sugar Sands – Best for Secluded Relaxation

Sugar Sands is one of Northumberland’s best-kept secrets, offering seclusion and natural beauty. This small cove near Howick requires a bit of a walk to access, adding to its charm. The beach features soft, golden sand and clear waters. It’s surrounded by cliffs, providing a sheltered and intimate beach experience. Sugar Sands is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet away from crowds. The beach offers beautiful coastal views and is great for photography. It’s an ideal spot for a private picnic or peaceful contemplation. This hidden gem is perfect for adventurers and those who enjoy discovering off-the-beaten-path locations.

Best Hotels Near Sugar Sands 🏨

• Crew House – This bed and breakfast is located in Alnmouth, a short drive from Sugar Sands beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast featuring local ingredients. The B&B’s location in the picturesque village of Alnmouth provides easy access to both the beach and the Northumberland Coast Path.
• The Pepper Pot – This cozy holiday home is situated in Alnmouth, close to Sugar Sands. It offers self-catering accommodation with sea views and a garden. The property’s location allows guests to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Alnmouth while being within easy reach of beautiful beaches and coastal walks.
• Holly Cottage – This charming cottage is located in Longhoughton, near Sugar Sands beach. It offers a comfortable stay with a fully equipped kitchen and garden. The cottage’s proximity to both the beach and attractions like Dunstanburgh Castle makes it an ideal base for exploring the Northumberland coast.

2. 🌟 Beach Facilities and Amenities

🏖️ Popular Beaches: Beaches near larger towns like Berwick-upon-Tweed and Amble offer comprehensive facilities. These include clean public toilets, cafes, and ice cream shops. Ample parking is usually available in nearby car parks. Lifeguard services are often provided during peak summer months. These beaches are ideal for families and those seeking convenience. They often have promenades perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying sea views.

🌊 Mid-Range Beaches: Beaches like Alnmouth and Warkworth balance facilities with unspoiled nature. They typically offer seasonal toilet facilities and small kiosks for snacks and drinks. Limited parking is available, often with a small fee. Information boards about local wildlife and coastal features are common. These beaches are great for those who want some amenities but prefer a more natural setting.

🏞️ Secluded Beaches: Secluded beaches, like those near Holy Island, offer pristine beauty with minimal facilities. They often have no on-site amenities but provide abundant natural beauty. These spots are perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. They offer great opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and bags for litter.

🐕 Accessibility and Special Features: Some beaches like Blyth and Newbiggin-by-the-Sea have wheelchair-accessible promenades. Many beaches are dog-friendly, but summer restrictions may apply. Water sports equipment rentals are available at beaches like Beadnell. Some beaches are near heritage sites, offering additional historical interest and facilities. The Northumberland Coastal Path connects many beaches, with amenities available in towns along the route.

🚤 Unique Beach Experiences: Amble, while not a traditional beach, offers excellent facilities and boat trips to Coquet Island. Some beaches provide stunning views of castles, like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh. Secluded spots like Rumbling Kern offer rocky shores sheltered by small cliffs. Each beach has its own charm, from golden sands stretching far to hidden coves.

3. 🚘 How to Get to Northumberland’s Beaches

🚗 Car Rental: Renting a car is the most flexible way to discover Northumberland’s beaches. It’s ideal for reaching remote spots like Rumbling Kern. You can easily plan your own itinerary and stop at scenic viewpoints. Car rentals allow you to carry beach gear and picnic supplies with ease. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace.

🚌 Public Transit: Regular buses connect major towns and beaches in Northumberland. While schedules can be limited, it’s an affordable way to travel. Bus routes often offer scenic coastal views along the way. It’s a great option for solo travelers or those on a budget. Public transit reduces your carbon footprint while exploring the coast.

🚂 Train Services: Trains from Newcastle provide easy access to coastal towns. It’s perfect for avoiding traffic, especially during peak seasons. Train journeys offer comfortable and scenic rides along the coast. Some stations are conveniently located near popular beaches. It’s an excellent choice for day trips from Newcastle or other major cities.

🚲 Bike Rentals: Cycling along the Northumberland Coast Path is an adventurous way to beach-hop. It provides a unique perspective of the coastline and hidden coves. Bike rentals are available in many coastal towns. It’s a great way to combine exercise with sightseeing. Perfect for eco-conscious travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

⛵ Boat Tours: Ferry services offer day trips to offshore attractions like the Farne Islands. It’s an excellent way to see seabirds and marine life up close. Boat tours provide unique views of the coastline from the sea. Some tours include stops at remote beaches inaccessible by land. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

4. 📅 Best Time to Visit Northumberland’s Beaches

☀️ Summer (June to August): Peak Beach Season

Summer offers the warmest temperatures, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Beaches are bustling with activity and have full amenities available. Long daylight hours allow for extended beach time and beautiful late sunsets. Popular beaches like Bamburgh and Alnmouth can get crowded. It’s the best time for water sports and beach activities. Coastal towns are lively with events and festivals during this season.

🍂 Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November): The Sweet Spot

Shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring brings wildflowers while autumn offers stunning coastal foliage. These seasons are perfect for coastal walks and photography. Accommodation prices are generally lower, and it’s easier to book at popular restaurants. Wildlife watching opportunities are abundant, especially for birdwatchers. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.

❄️ Winter (December to February): Dramatic Coastal Beauty 

Winter provides a unique, stark beauty to Northumberland’s coastline. Beaches are often deserted, perfect for peaceful walks and contemplation. It’s an excellent time for dramatic landscape photography. Migratory birds can be seen at nature reserves like Lindisfarne. Coastal villages offer cozy pubs with roaring fires. Stargazing opportunities are fantastic due to clear skies and less light pollution.

🐦 Wildlife Watching Seasons

Spring and autumn are prime times for birdwatching, especially around Coquet Island. Winter brings migratory birds to places like Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve. Grey seals can be spotted year-round, with pupping season in autumn. Puffins are best seen on the Farne Islands from April to July. Dolphins can sometimes be spotted from coastal points in summer months.

5. 🦅 Wildlife and Nature at Northumberland’s Beaches

🐦 Farne Islands: The Farne Islands are a crucial habitat for various seabirds. Puffins are abundant from April to July, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Grey seals can be seen basking on rocks year-round. Arctic terns, guillemots, and razorbills nest on the islands. Boat trips from Seahouses provide the best access for wildlife viewing. Early morning visits offer optimal bird activity and photography conditions.

🏝️ Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve: Also known as Holy Island, Lindisfarne offers unique tidal ecosystems. Vast mudflats attract numerous wading birds. Salt marshes host rare plant species. The dune systems are home to unique insect populations. Migrating birds visit in spring and autumn. Visitors must check tide times as the causeway floods at high tide.

🌊 Druridge Bay: Druridge Bay stretches for 7 miles, offering varied coastal environments. Long golden beaches provide space for shoreline wildlife. Freshwater pools attract diverse birdlife. Sand dunes support rare plant species. Woodland areas offer shelter to small mammals and birds. The adjacent country park provides free parking and excellent facilities for nature exploration.

🐳 Coastal Marine Life: The Northumberland coast is rich in marine life. Dolphins can sometimes be spotted from coastal viewpoints. Low tide reveals rock pools teeming with fascinating creatures. Seals are often seen along quieter stretches of coastline. The area is part of the Berwickshire and North Northumberland Coast European Marine Site, highlighting its ecological importance.

🦅 Birdwatching Hotspots: Coquet Island, visible from Amble, hosts the UK’s only roseate tern breeding colony. Budle Bay, part of Lindisfarne Reserve, is excellent for waders and wildfowl. Newton Pool near Blyth Beach is great for migratory birds. St. Mary’s Island offers diverse coastal bird species. Early morning and dusk provide prime birdwatching opportunities along the entire coastline.

FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Northumberland ❔

Why is Northumberland famous?

Northumberland is famous for its stunning coastline, numerous castles (over 70 castle sites), Hadrian’s Wall, beautiful beaches, and being home to Hogwarts (Alnwick Castle was used in Harry Potter films).

Can you swim in the sea in Northumberland?

Yes, you can swim in the sea in Northumberland. Many beaches like Bamburgh, Druridge Bay, and Beadnell Bay are popular for swimming.

Is it safe to swim in the sea in Northumberland?

Generally yes, but caution is advised. Officials recommend being aware of cold water shock, strong currents, and following safety guidelines. Some beaches have lifeguards during peak seasons.

What is the nicest seaside town in Northumberland?

Bamburgh is often cited as the nicest seaside town in Northumberland. It has been named “Britain’s Best Coastal Destination” in Which? surveys for multiple years, known for its castle, beautiful beach, and scenic views.