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Top Sandy Beaches for Relaxing

Bamburgh Beach

Easily one of Northumberland’s best beaches, set against the dramatic backdrop of Bamburgh Castle, this expansive stretch of golden sand offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere—perfect for peaceful walks and quiet moments.

Embleton Bay

A secluded, sweeping bay near Dunstanburgh Castle, Embleton Bay is known for its soft sand, shallow waters, and serenity—ideal for reading, paddling, or simply soaking in the view.

Alnmouth Beach

Framed by dunes and the picturesque village of Alnmouth, this family-friendly beach is a peaceful haven for sunbathers, with gentle tides and plenty of space to unwind.

Top Sandy Beaches for Relaxing

Druridge Bay

Stretching for seven miles, Druridge Bay offers vast sands backed by nature reserves and wild dunes—a dream for beachcombers and those seeking solitude by the sea.

Warkworth Beach

Tucked beneath Warkworth Castle, this quiet beach is perfect for those who want a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, with long sandy stretches to enjoy in peace.

Beadnell Bay

A curved bay with soft sands and calm waters, Beadnell is a popular yet laid-back spot for gentle walks, shell collecting, and tranquil picnics by the waves.

Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks

Bamburgh to Seahouses

This scenic route offers open sands, grassy dunes, and castle views—ideal for dogs who love to roam. Stop in Seahouses for dog-friendly cafés and a well-earned rest.

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle

Follow a gentle coastal path from the fishing village of Craster to the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. It’s a popular trail with stunning sea views and plenty of sniffs along the way.

Beadnell to Low Newton-by-the-Sea

This walk takes in quiet beaches and bird-rich dunes, leading to the charming village of Low Newton where the dog-friendly Ship Inn offers a perfect pitstop.

Dog-Friendly Coastal Walks

Alnmouth Circular Walk

Wander along Alnmouth’s vast sandy beach before looping inland via riverside trails and village lanes—ideal for varied terrain and relaxed exploring.

Cresswell to Druridge Bay

This dog-friendly stretch of the England Coast Path offers miles of golden sand and wildlife-rich dunes, with water bowls and dog waste bins thoughtfully placed along the route.

Warkworth Beach and Coquet Estuary

Combine castle views, quiet sands, and peaceful estuary paths in this easy-going route. It’s a favourite among local dog walkers for its open space and calm atmosphere.

Windsurfing & Water Sports

Beadnell Bay

Renowned for its sheltered waters and wide crescent-shaped beach, Beadnell is Northumberland’s go-to destination for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking—ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.

Druridge Bay Country Park

With a dedicated watersports lake just inland from the beach, Druridge Bay offers safe, scenic conditions for canoeing, paddleboarding, and open water swimming, all backed by beautiful nature trails.

Budle Bay

Located just west of Bamburgh, Budle Bay is a popular spot for experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers thanks to its shallow tidal waters and strong breezes—best enjoyed on an incoming tide.

Seaside Picnic Locations

Bamburgh Castle Beach

Enjoy your picnic with one of the most iconic backdrops in the UK—Bamburgh Castle towering above soft sands and sweeping sea views. There’s plenty of space for the whole family (and the dog too).

Low Newton-by-the-Sea

Tucked in a quiet bay and framed by grassy dunes, this spot offers peaceful views, gentle waves, and nearby stone cottages—ideal for a picnic with charm and quietude.

Alnmouth Bay

With colourful village views, golden sands, and accessible parking, Alnmouth is a favourite for relaxed seaside picnics, whether on the beach or perched in the dunes.

Seaside Picnic Locations

Cresswell Beach

Wide, open sands and a peaceful atmosphere make Cresswell a great choice for a quiet picnic. Set up near the dunes for shelter and a sweeping view of Druridge Bay.

Embleton Bay

This hidden gem near the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle combines seclusion with stunning coastal views—perfect for those wanting a more remote picnic experience.

Spittal Promenade, Berwick-upon-Tweed

For a traditional seaside picnic with facilities nearby, Spittal Promenade offers benches, grassy areas, and views across to Holy Island—ideal for families or a relaxed afternoon by the sea.

Beachcombing Hotspots

Seahouses Beach

At low tide, Seahouses reveals rock pools, driftwood, and seashells galore—making it a favourite spot for curious beachcombers and families with little adventurers.

Howick Bay

Tucked between Craster and Boulmer, this lesser-known bay is rich in sea glass, pebbles, and marine curiosities, with dramatic rock formations that make exploring extra rewarding.

Cocklawburn Beach

Just south of Berwick-upon-Tweed, this rugged beach is known for its colourful pebbles, fossils, and unique geology—perfect for those seeking something a little wilder and off the beaten track.

Best Coastal Views & Sunsets

Bamburgh Castle Beach

Watch the sun dip behind the iconic castle as the sky turns shades of amber and violet—this dramatic view is one of Northumberland’s most photographed and magical sunset spots.

Dunstanburgh Castle from Embleton Bay

With the castle ruins silhouetted against the horizon, this sweeping bay offers a postcard-perfect scene as the sun sets over waves and dunes.

Budle Bay

This tranquil tidal bay near Bamburgh is a haven for birdwatchers and sunset seekers alike. Its still waters reflect the evening light beautifully for a peaceful end to the day.

Alnmouth Estuary

A blend of river, sea, and sky, the estuary at Alnmouth creates mirror-like reflections as the sun sets behind the dunes—ideal for photographers and those after a serene, scenic moment.

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