Explore and discover Northumberland

Northumberland is one of England’s best-kept secrets: unspoilt beaches, castles on the skyline, Hadrian’s Wall and charming harbour villages. Whether you love hiking, cycling or simply taking in the view, there is so much to explore. National Cycle Route 1, the Coast & Castles route, runs right through Beadnell, with beach after beach to discover all the way along it.

Dog leaping for a ball on the beach below Bamburgh Castle
Heather moorland overlooking the Northumberland countryside
Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island, Northumberland

Golden sands, a rich history and picture-postcard harbours – the outstanding natural beauty of this county never fails to impress. Beadnell sits within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, now known as the Northumberland Coast National Landscape.

Here are our favourite places to visit from Beadnell.

  • Aerial view of Beadnell Bay and Beadnell Point

    Beadnell Bay

    Right on our doorstep, Beadnell Bay has everything: golden sands, graceful dunes and plenty of wildlife. It is a favourite with walkers, swimmers and sunbathers alike.

    Its wide, shallow bay is ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and Beadnell even has its own sailing club. For routes from the door, see our Walks, and for dog-friendly tips, see Buster’s Guide.

  • The rocky Northumberland coast with the Farne Islands offshore

    The Farne Islands

    These islands are home to grey seals and huge colonies of seabirds, including tens of thousands of puffins that return to breed between April and late July.

    Daily boat trips leave from Seahouses harbour, from gentle cruises to RHIB rides and sunset trips. Keep an eye out for dolphins on the way.

  • Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island, Northumberland

    Holy Island (Lindisfarne)

    Cut off by the tide twice a day, Holy Island is one of the most atmospheric places on the coast, with a ruined priory, a castle perched on a crag and a pretty village selling Lindisfarne mead.

    It is about 30 minutes’ drive from Beadnell. Always check the safe crossing times before driving over the causeway.

  • The coast north from Beadnell towards Seahouses, from the air

    Seahouses

    A few miles north of Beadnell, the colourful fishing village of Seahouses is the place for fresh fish and chips, a bustling harbour, crabbing with the children and crazy golf with sea views.

    Most boat trips to the Farne Islands leave from here, with a choice of half-day and full-day landing trips. For our favourite places to eat, see Where to Eat & Drink.

  • Alnwick Castle and its grounds

    Alnwick

    If you can drag yourself away from the beaches, head inland to the cobbled market town of Alnwick. Visit the castle, famous from the Harry Potter films, walk in Hulne Park, or browse its restaurants and bookshops.

    The Alnwick Garden is well worth a visit too, with 12 acres of gardens, a spectacular treehouse restaurant and the Grand Cascade.

  • Beadnell Bay looking south towards Dunstanburgh Castle

    Castles

    Northumberland is famous for its castles, and the coast near Beadnell has some of the finest.

    Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh are the most dramatic. Both are a short drive away, with spectacular coastal settings and excellent visitor facilities. For ideas on planning your days, see our Itineraries.

  • Berwick-upon-Tweed and its bridges over the River Tweed

    Berwick-Upon-Tweed

    Berwick-upon-Tweed, England’s northernmost town, makes a lovely day out from Beadnell.

    On the border with Scotland, it is known for its historic walls, cobbled streets, quirky cafés and excellent shops and restaurants.