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Home to just a sixth of the population of London, Northumberland is the spiritual home of peace and quiet. Country Walking Magazine labelled this county one of the best places in the UK for walking thanks to its blend of rugged countryside, sleepy villages and mile after mile of way-marked walking trails.

Experience the serene silence of Northumberland yourself with an invigorating coastal walk from Craster to Low Newton. Taking in wildflower peppered meadows, mesmerising coast and imposing historic sites, this route is the perfect place for a bracing coastal walk when you need to blow away the cobwebs.

The Walk

At six miles long, this walk should take around two hours to complete, although you needn’t rush as there are plenty of great spots for picnics and photographs along the route. The terrain, which is made up of grass, gravel and sand, shouldn’t cause any problems, though walking boots are still advisable.

The Route

Sample some of Craster’s famous smoked herring before setting off north towards Dunstanburgh Castle, passing Craster Harbour on your way out of the village. Continue north through peaceful farmlands with the craggy seashore to your right. Birdwatchers should keep their binoculars close at hand in order to glass the horizon for signs of the eider duck, which can often be seen along the shore.

Snap a photo of Dunstanburgh before edging around the base of the castle. If you’re interested in history, the castle is open to the public seven days a week between 10am and 6pm and offers great insight into the bloody history of the region. Birdwatchers again should spend a moment watching the nearby cliffs, which attracts kittiwakes and fulmar during the summer months.

Once you’ve finished exploring Dunstanburgh, continue north and pass the golf course before descending on to the beach of Embleton Bay. Here you will find remnants of a world war two bunker, as well as a superb panorama of the distant castle. Take a paddle or stop for a picnic on the sand before crossing Embleton Burn and continue onward towards Newton Haven harbour.

Keep your eyes peeled for seals and seabirds as you pass the rocky shoreline. If you’re walking with children, be sure to explore the bay’s rock pools, where many marine creatures can be found. Leave the beach and walk into the traditional village of Low Newton which, like Craster, has a rich fishing heritage. Spend some time exploring the village’s charming streets before travelling further in land. Here you will pass a pocket of wooded dunes that are perfect for wildlife watching. Continue on the path towards Dunstan Steads. Before long, the ramparts of Dunstanburgh will be visible once more.

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