Coastal Breaks in Northumberland

Northumberland is home to some of the UK's most stunning coastline dotted with long sweeping sandy beaches and buzzing promenades. Many of these sandy havens are totally unspoilt, practically deserted and teeming with wildlife.

Many of the beaches in Northumberland are surrounded by dramatic cliffs, quaint fishing villages and classic British beach resorts. Whilst the temperatures aren't always bikini proof, there are more than enough seaside activities, water sports, bird sanctuaries and coastal walks to make-up for it.

Although the North Sea doesn't immediately conjure-up beach images comparable to those of the Med, there are some really lovely seaside towns that will charm the socks off holidaymakers looking for some seaside fun, especially those lucky enough to stay in beachfront accommodation.

Quaint little seaside retreats like Amble, Seahouses, Beadnell and Bamburgh in Northumberland offer romantic, affordable getaways that are immersed in a plethora of history and nature. If you’re planning pet friendly holidays in Northumberland you’ll be pleased to know that most of the beaches featured here are dog friendly all year round.

Amble sits on the Estuary of the River Coquet on Northumberland's stunning heritage coastline. This is also where you’ll find Coquet Island, a protected RSPB bird sanctuary and nature reserve where visitors can behold 36,000 sea birds, including the iconic puffins.

There are loads of idyllic sandy beaches around here along with a number of impressive medieval castles. Amble also has a bustling marina set-up for all the latest water, sailing and rowing sports. The village is compact but caters for visitors adequately with plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops and a fabulous Sunday market.

Further up the coast lies Beadnell, a sweet little coastal village that sits at the northern tip of a glorious sandy beach on Beadnell Bay. The beach is backed by huge dunes and stretches for mile upon mile. The harbour is handsome and historic and offers excellent water sport facilities and the village is equally well equipped with all the amenities, pubs and shops you'd expect of a top notch resort.

Beadnell is the perfect base from which to explore Northumberland's stunning wildlife and many historic castles, namely the forts of Bamburgh, Lindesfarne, Alnmouth, Dunstanburgh and Berwick upon Tweed, all of which are within a short drive. Big families or groups of friends should check out the Northumberland group cottages listed with us, many which accept pets and are just moments from the beach.

If wildlife is more your thing then you should head for Seahouses, a seaside gem that resides on a unique Coastal Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Here there is an unspoilt fishing harbour where little fishing boats still bring in a daily catch, and where these same boats offer tours to witness an amazing seal colony just off shore on the Farne Islands.

Seeing these creatures face to face is an unforgettable experience and there are tons of sea birds to add to the spectacle. The beach is totally pristine and you can even organise a romantic pony ride along the shore. The village and waterfront are filled with pretty coastal cottages, pubs and eateries where you can get a real feel for traditional seaside life and sample the local seafood.

A little further North lies perhaps one of the best beaches to be found on the North East Coast. Bamburgh is not only home to Northumberland's most stunning white sands, endless dunes and waterscapes but also possesses one of the best preserved fortresses in Northern England.

This castle renders this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty almost mystical and has been portrayed in numerous famous paintings. The white sands of Bamburgh Beach are perfect for a day of relaxation but also perfect for bracing walks and are dog friendly all year round. The local village is small but compact and has just enough to keep locals and holiday makers stocked.

So there you have it, a quick guide on where to go and what to look out for when next you are planning a trip to the Northumberland Coast!