{"id":69611,"date":"2023-05-31T09:03:16","date_gmt":"2023-05-31T08:03:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/?p=69611"},"modified":"2025-07-17T11:23:12","modified_gmt":"2025-07-17T10:23:12","slug":"northumberland-beaches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/northumberland-beaches\/","title":{"rendered":"The 11 Best Northumberland Beaches"},"content":{"rendered":"

With dramatic views, striking beauty, rugged coastline and miles of golden sands this collection of Northumberland beaches offer something for everyone!<\/p>\n

Stretching for 40 miles the Northumberland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is an awe-inspiring part of the UK. In addition to thriving wildlife, vivid history and dramatic scenery, the AONB is home to a wealth of stunning Northumberland Beaches.<\/p>\n

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach for warm summer days, dog-friendly Northumberland beaches or wish to simply immerse yourself in nature. Our guide to the best beach in Northumberland will help you pick your favourite!<\/p>\n

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Skip ahead to:<\/h2>\n

Northumberland Beaches FAQ<\/a>
\nThe Best Northumberland Beaches<\/a>
\nNorthumberland Beaches Map<\/a><\/p>\n

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<\/a><\/p>\n

Northumberland Beaches FAQ<\/h2>\n
\nDoes Northumberland have a beach?<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Yes of course! Northumberland is home to 62 miles of breath-taking coastline meaning there are countless beautiful beaches to explore. With over 35 beaches, Northumberland is a haven for beach lovers.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n

\nCan you swim in the sea in Northumberland?<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Beaches in Northumberland are great for swimming as the water quality is generally excellent. There are even five EU-designated bathing beaches; these are Bamburgh Castle, Seahouses – St Aidens, Beadnell Bay Beach, Low Newton-by-the-Sea and Warkworth. This means that the water quality is monitored weekly between May and September. However, there are no lifeguards present on Northumberland beaches so keep yourself safe. Learn more about respecting the water with the RNLI<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n

\nHas Morpeth got a beach?<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Morpeth does not have its own beach. However, it is less than 10 miles to the nearest beaches which include Newbiggen-by-the-Sea and Cambois Beach which you can learn more about in our guide to the best Northumberland beaches.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n

\nHas Seahouses got a beach?<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Seahouses has access to two stunning beaches. The beach north of the harbour is St Aiden’s Dunes which is connected to the spectacular Bamburgh Beach. South of the harbour is a smaller beach which stretches all the way to Beadnell.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n

\nWhich is nicer Bamburgh or Seahouses?<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Both of these Northumberland villages are beautiful. They ooze charm and boast access to swaths of golden sand; the perfect coastal getaway destinations! However, in my opinion Bamburgh is better than Seahouses. I was totally in awe of the majestic Bamburgh Castle that dominates the horizon as you drive into the village. I was even more impressed by the beach that sits behind the castle; the soft sand, azure water and castle in the background made this an unforgettable getaway.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n

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<\/a><\/p>\n

The Best Northumberland Beaches<\/h2>\n

1. Alnmouth Beach<\/a>, Alnmouth<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Alnmouth<\/p>\n

Kicking off our guide to the best Northumberland beaches is Alnmouth Beach. This large, breath-taking beach lies at the mouth of the River Aln in the idyllic coastal village of Alnmouth<\/a>. This charming village is a haven for those who love to be by the sea!<\/p>\n

Pack up your beach essentials and spend the day on this Northumberland beach’s golden shores. Enjoy basking in the summer sun or leisurely walks along the shoreline. Alnmouth Beach is dog-friendly all year round, making it the ultimate dog-walking spot.<\/p>\n

Swimming is cautioned against on Alnmouth Beach due to the strong tide from the river; but don’t worry other places in this guide are ideal for those looking to take to the open water.<\/p>\n

After whiling away your day on the beach venture into the quaint village of Alnmouth the end the day on a high with ice cream or continue exploring by venturing inland to discover the historic town of Alnwick<\/a>!<\/p>\n

Type of beach: <\/strong>Sandy
\nDog-friendly: <\/strong>Yes, dog-friendly all year round
\nLifeguard service: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Parking: <\/strong>Yes, parking is available in the car park along the seafront. \u00a33.50 for a car\/small van daily ticket and \u00a32 for a car after 4pm
\nPublic toilets: <\/strong>Yes
\n<\/strong>Postcode: <\/strong>NE66 2RZ<\/p>\n

2. Bamburgh Beach<\/a>, Bamburgh<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Bamburgh<\/p>\n

Undeniably one of the best beaches in the UK<\/a>, Bamburgh Beach is truly a sight to behold. This Northumberland beach is hidden away from the main road by the majestic Bamburgh Castle<\/a> that dominates your view into the village of Bamburgh<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Follow the curve of the road to find Links Road car park and a path that leads down to the astounding beach. Spend the whole day here building sandcastles with the kids, throwing the balls for your beloved pooch or admiring the views across the North Sea to the Farne Islands<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Bamburgh Beach is renowned for its great surfing opportunities. Experienced surfers can take to the open water to catch waves. If you’re a beginner this beach is home to NE Surf School<\/a>; you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the pros in no time!<\/p>\n

Don’t forget to venture into the village to immerse yourself in history at Bamburgh Castle. Unearth over 3000 years of history at this castle that was once the seat of the Kings of Northumbria. An unforgettable day for the whole family!<\/p>\n

Type of beach: <\/strong>Sandy
\nDog-friendly: <\/strong>Yes, dog-friendly all year round
\nLifeguard service: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Parking: <\/strong>Parking is available at the Links Road car park opposite Bamburgh Castle. 3 hours for \u00a35, 4 hours for \u00a36, 5 hours for \u00a37 and all day \u00a38.
\nPublic toilets: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Postcode: <\/strong>NE69 7DF<\/p>\n

3. Beadnell Bay Beach, Beadnell<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Beadnell<\/p>\n

Next up on our list of the best beaches in Northumberland is the vast Beadnell Bay Beach. With awe-inspiring and far-reaching views across the bay, this beach is a must-visit for anyone visiting Northumberland.<\/p>\n

A popular tourist destination, Beadnell Bay Beach is a thriving hub of fun activities. Watersports are hugely popular on this beach in Northumberland; thrill seekers will be in their element! Ride the waves on surfboards or try your hand at windsurfing and kitesurfing.<\/p>\n

There is also a sailing club here so you can appreciate the beauty of the open water. Visitors to Beadnell Bay can even delve into the depths of the North Sea by joining The Diving Centre<\/a> on one of their Beadnell dives.<\/p>\n

This Northumberland beach is sure to be a family favourite!<\/p>\n

Type of beach: <\/strong>Sandy
\nDog-friendly: <\/strong>Yes, however during the summer months there is a seasonal restriction due to breeding shorebirds. Please consult the signs along the beach and abide by the rules
\nLifeguard service: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Parking: <\/strong>Parking is available at the Beadnell Bay car park. Free for up to 1 hour, \u00a35 for 3 hours and \u00a37 all day.
\nPublic toilets: <\/strong>Yes
\n<\/strong>Postcode: <\/strong>NE67 5EE<\/p>\n

4. Cambois Beach, Cambois<\/h3>\n

\"Cambois<\/p>\n

Cambois Beach is one of the lesser-known beaches on our guide to the best beaches in Northumberland, perfect for those looking for a quieter spot. When the tide is out this beach is huge, making it a must-visit for those looking to walk their dogs in the sea air.<\/p>\n

Look forward to refreshing walks here, and if you’re early enough you can marvel as the sun rises behind the horizon, projecting an orange haze across the sky,<\/p>\n

During the summer this Northumberland beach is perfect for a family day at the beach, there is ample space to run around and very few crowds. Cambois Beach is a local best-kept secret!<\/p>\n

Type of beach: <\/strong>Sandy
\nDog-friendly: <\/strong>Yes, dog-friendly all year round
\nLifeguard service: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Parking: <\/strong>Parking available at The Buccaneers car park, NE24 1SJ
\nPublic toilets: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Postcode: <\/strong>NE24 IRJ<\/p>\n

5. Embleton Bay, Embleton<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Embleton<\/p>\n

With endless golden sands, surrounded by greenery, the silhouette of Dunstanburgh Castle in the background and the lapping swell of the North Sea it’s easy to see why Embleton Bay Beach is one of the best beaches in Northumberland.<\/p>\n

This stunning horseshoe-shaped beach is nestled on the outskirts of Embleton<\/a> and is an idyllic place to spend sunny days. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun’s rays, play beach games with the kids or go wild swimming, this Northumberland beach is the place to be.<\/p>\n

Embleton Bay Beach is backed by picturesque, grassy sand dunes and the Northumberland Coast Path<\/a> which stretches an incredible 62 miles and meanders through a range of tranquil, coastal villages. A haven for keen ramblers and undeniably one of England’s best beaches<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Type of beach: <\/strong>Sandy
\nDog-friendly: <\/strong>Yes, dog-friendly all year round
\nLifeguard service: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Parking: <\/strong>Parking is limited, however, you can park on the road near Dunstanburgh Golf Club or in the village of Embleton
\nPublic toilets: <\/strong>No
\n<\/strong>Postcode: <\/strong>NE66 3DT<\/p>\n

6. Holy Island Beach, Holy Island<\/a><\/h3>\n

\"Holy<\/p>\n

Nestled off the North East coast near Berwick-upon-Tweed<\/a> is the idyllic and historic tidal island of Lindisfarne. More commonly known as Holy Island! Dating back to the 6th century, Holy Island is not only home to a wealth of history but also beautiful beaches and is undoubtedly one of the best islands in the UK<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Closest to the village is Holy Island Beach a shoreside beach with unbeatable views back to the mainland and up to the majestic Lindisfarne Castle. Venture into the castle to unearth a vivid history.<\/p>\n

Holy Island is also home to two other popular beaches Keel Head and The Links. Both of these Northumberland beaches are backed by stunning sand dunes, boast large stretches of golden sand and are at the mercy of the swells of the North Sea. Perfect for beach lovers seeking seclusion and wilderness!<\/p>\n

After a day spent on either of these beaches in Northumberland, be sure to immerse yourself in the Island’s heritage at Lindisfarne Priory, the church of St Mary the Virgin and the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre. With all this to enjoy, we’re not surprised that visiting Holy Island is one of the best things to do in spring<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Be sure to check the tide times and safe crossing times<\/a> before venturing to Holy Island as high tide makes the causeway inaccessible and dangerous.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n