5 sights not to miss along the Northumberland Coastal Path

The Northumberland Coastal Path is a 103km (64 miles) walking route leading from Cresswell in the South to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the North. The path forms part of the 5000km North Sea Trail which offers some of the finest coastal walking paths in Europe. There are many excellent attractions to see along the way too, too revealing Northumberland’s natural and historical heritage. Below we pick our highlights.

The Farne Islands

The Farne Islands are located just off the coast near the village of Seahouses and can be reached via boat trips operated by several companies in the area. On the islands you can see a whole array of wildlife most notably puffins and seals, but you’ll also catch glimpses of guillemots, eider ducks, terns and many other sea birds.

It is best to visit the islands between May and July when the islands can have up to 23 species of birds and 37,000 pairs of puffins. You might also see dolphins and whales in the sea while you are there. The islands are considered to be one of the best wildlife experiences in the UK and provide ample photographic opportunities-this trip is not to be missed.

Bamburgh Castle

One of Northumberland’s most spectacular and iconic buildings, Bamburgh Castle is a real delight both to look at and to visit. The castle has plenty to see including 14 public rooms and over 2000 artefacts which include arms and armour, furniture, porcelain and paintings.

The castle has won awards for being one of Britain’s most spectacular views, so even if you don’t want to pay the interiors a visit, you won’t fail to miss this impressive sight on your walk along the coast path.

Holy Island

Holy Island is a tidal island in Berwick-upon-Tweed accessible via a causeway at low tide. The island offers stunning views of the natural surroundings and is home to Lindisfarne Priory - one of the most important sites of early Christianity in Britain. You can visit the spectacular priory ruins and admire the ornate carvings of this once monastic building.

The island is also home to Lindisfarne Castle, which gives a fascinating insight into the past and its defensive purposes. As if that wasn’t enough, this island is a National Nature Reserve and full of wildlife, rare plants and many species of birds. You could even do some wild swimming here if you can brave the cold water! This ancient and historically significant place of beauty is a must visit.

St Cuthbert’s Cave

An excellent place to walk to during your trip to Northumberland is St Cuthbert’s Cave in the woodlands near Belford. The cave is formed by an overhanging rock which is held up by a single pillar of stone. It is associated with Saint Cuthbert, a 17th Century Anglo-Saxon bishop who according to legend is thought to have lived in the cave as a hermit.

The cave is very impressive and makes a great stop for a short rest before heading back out on your walking route.

Coquet Island

If you are walking the Cresswell to Warkworth route then you will see Coquet Island just offshore near the fishing port of Amble. The island is a superb place for bird-watchers and there is a huge seabird colony here. You can take a boat trip to see thousands of puffins, eider ducks and terns, as well as seals and fantastic views.

The picturesque village of Warksworth is a short walking distance away and has its own castle overlooking the River Coquet and a number of lovely shops to browse.

Walking the Northumberland Coastal Path is a real treat. In addition to the many fantastic attractions to see en route, there are also tons of great beaches suitable for water sports like windsurfing or body boarding or activities such as horse riding on beaches. Aside from passing through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offering spectacular views, the coast path is great for all levels of walking fitness and ability because the going is fairly level with very few steep climbs. A walk along the Northumberland Coastal Path will make for a truly memorable holiday.