There is so much to do along the Northumbrian coastline and the surrounding area that it’s difficult to know where to begin.

Here are a few of our favourite places to visit and things to do:

Preston Tower

Our highly distinguished neighbour is a pele tower that provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Border Reivers. The tower is owned by the Baker-Cresswell family and was built between 1392 and 1399 when warfare between England and Scotland was endemic. Some rooms have been furnished as they might have been in the 14th century and is open for visitors to visit. Climb to the top of the tower to hear it’s bell chime on the hour and for spectacular views of coast and country on a sunny day.

Bamburgh Castle & Village

The spectacular Castle stands proudly on a steep rocky cliff which overlooks the village on the west side and the North Sea on the east side. The castle is open to the public, and the village itself makes a pleasant visit with small cafes, eateries and local shops. Bamburgh beach is one of the most stunning beaches on the coastline with wide, flat sands and a stunning walk from Bamburgh to Seahouses. Eat at The Potted Lobster for great food.

Seahouses & the Farne Islands

Seahouses boasts some of the best Fish & Chip shops you’ll find in the area. Visit Lewis’ if you want to sit inside and enjoy some locally caught fish, or try Pinnacles for a takeout and tuck in on one of the benches overlooking the harbour. Trips to the Farne Island also start from Seahouses. This is a must do trip if the weather’s good, when you can experience some of the richness of wild life we have along our coastline including puffins and seals. Learn about the courageous rescue mission embarked on by Grace Darling when sailors became shipwrecked off the Farnes during a tumultuous storm.

Craster & Dunstanburgh Castle

The fishing village of Craster is one of the most idyllic villages on the coastline with small fisherman’s cottages and a central harbour. Take a walk from Craster along the coast up to the ruin of Dunstanburgh Castle and you will experience some of the most spectacular scenery along the coastline. Finish off with some food at the Jolly Fisherman pub in Craster or the local seafood restaurant, and of course purchase some of the infamous Craster Kippers from the smokehouse in the village. Visit Eleanor’s Byre in between Craster and Embleton for delicious cake and lovely gifts. Or Ember’s woodfired pizza for some of the best pizza you’ll find in the north east.

Alnwick Castle & Gardens

Alnwick Castle is an awe inspiring visit and home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. The castle is open to the public to look around and you may recognise some of it from scenes in the Harry Potter movies. The landscaped gardens make for a wonderful visit with spectacular fountains, mazes and water features. Visit Barter Books in Alnwick to experience the largest second had bookshop in the country.

Cragside House & Gardens

Situated near Rothbury, Cragside was built by Lord Armstrong and the setting from where he invented electricity. Cragside provides a wonderful day out with extensive walks through the rugged estate featuring lakes, bridges and some extremely old trees. Tours around the house are available and a large play area for entertaining families. Part of the National Trust.

Howick Hall & Gardens

The home of Earl Gray Tea. Howick has lovely gardens to explore including a newly established sensory garden which is not only beautiful but aimed at supporting children with autism. A tearoom is located in the house. The surrounding coastline boasts some wonderful walks and the secluded Sugar Sands beach nearby.