Coast & Castles sits near Boulmer — a small fishing village on the Northumberland coast, four miles from Alnwick and surrounded by some of the best walking, eating and castle-visiting country in England.
Heading North
The long-distance coastal path passes close to the site. Head north along the coast for open clifftops, views to the Farne Islands and Bamburgh Castle on the horizon.
About 4 miles north, Craster is a small fishing village famous for kippers and a very good pub. Walk north from the harbour along the coast to reach the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle on the headland.
The beach and cliffs at Howick are quiet, rocky and excellent. Howick Hall Gardens are open seasonally and well worth an afternoon if the weather holds.
Heading South
Walk south from the site and you'll quickly reach Seaton Point — a quiet stretch of coast with wide beaches, rock pools and plenty of space.
The estuary village of Alnmouth is about 3 miles south. A lovely place for a walk along the beach and a coffee, or a longer stop for lunch. Has its own train station too, if you fancy a day trip without the car.
Further south still, Amble is the closest town with a good selection of independent food and drink. The marina area has been smartened up nicely in recent years, and there are boat trips to Coquet Island from the harbour.
Boulmer beach
Four miles inland, Alnwick is the main market town and punches above its weight for things to do. A solid afternoon's worth, or a full day if you get distracted.
Castle
One of the largest inhabited castles in England and filming location for the early Harry Potter films. Worth a half-day. The grounds are open separately.
Gardens
A modern walled garden with grand water features, a treehouse café and the famous Poison Garden. Good for families. Worth combining with the castle.
Books
One of the largest second-hand bookshops in the country, housed in the old Victorian railway station. Excellent café inside. Impossible to visit quickly.
Castle
About 20 miles north, Bamburgh is arguably the most dramatic castle on the Northumberland coast — on a rocky headland above one of the best beaches in England.
Castle
A well-preserved medieval castle in the village of Warkworth, about 8 miles south. The village itself is quiet and pretty, worth a look after the castle.
Nature
Boat trips to the Farne Islands depart from Seahouses (about 15 miles north). Grey seals, puffins and seabirds in large numbers. Book in advance in peak season.
On site
Our on-site bar and food offering, open from 5pm each evening. Pizza nights, loaded fries, local drinks and a rotating cast of visiting food traders through the season.
Non-campers are always welcome. Check our Instagram for what's on each week.
On site
Daytime food and drink on site, with breakfast options, coffee and casual lunches. Hours vary through the season — check with reception on arrival.
Serving locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Boulmer village · 1 mile
The village pub at Boulmer, sitting right on the beach. Proper pub food, good local ales and one of the better views from a beer garden in Northumberland.
A short walk or very easy drive from the site. Dog-friendly.
Longhoughton & Craster
Company B and The Running Fox are both in Longhoughton — good for casual dining and a proper sit-down dinner respectively, and both right on your doorstep.
L. Robson & Sons at Craster is the place for smoked kippers — one of Northumberland's most famous food producers, operating from the same smokehouse since 1906.
Book your pitch or pod and use Coast & Castles as your base for exploring the Northumberland coast.
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