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bamburgh castle from the beach

With the release of The Last Kingdom season 3 on Netflix, this adaptation of Bernard Cornwell’s best-selling Saxon novel has proven extremely popular.

Based on Uhtred of Bebbanburg, we’ve taken a deep dive into the turbulent history of Bebbanburg (Bamburgh) and some of the other Northumbrian places featured in these novels.

Continue reading to learn more about The Last Kingdom and Uhtred of Bebbanburg…


Bebbanburg (Bamburgh)

Bebbanburg, now known as Bamburgh, is the original home of the novels main character, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. Cornwell is thought to have based this main character upon Uhtred the Bold, who became the ealdorman of all Northumbria from 1006 to 1016 AD.

A view of Bamburgh Castle from a ne

Bamburgh is an idyllic village with an imposing castle sitting majestically on a dolerite outcrop overlooking the stunning Northumberland coastline. Its history tells of a very important, turbulent and difficult past!

Once the site of a fort built by the native Britons, Bamburgh was thought to have become the capital of the British kingdom from about 420 AD to 547 AD.

This was when it was captured by the Anglo-Saxon ruler Ida of Bernicia and became Ida’s seat. Ida’s grandson then passed it on to his wife, Bebba, from whom the early name Bebbanburg was derived.


Bamburgh Castle

We’re pleased to say that Bamburgh village and castle now reside in peace and harmony.

Bamburgh Castle is open to visitors, and the village is quintessentially picturesque with a good range of tea rooms, restaurants and pubs. Paired with its spectacular beach, it is truly a fabulous place to enjoy a holiday in Northumbria.

Purchase your Bamburgh Castle tickets here.

Bamburgh Castle address:
Bamburgh Castle,
Bamburgh,
Northumberland
NE69 7DF


Bedehal (Beadnell)

A view from the sand dunes across the water at Beadnell Bay

Beadnell is a charming coastal village lying between rolling farmland and the dune fringed stretch of Beadnell Bay. Its picture-perfect harbour is the only west-facing harbour on the East coast.

The sheltered bay is a great spot to enjoy a picnic as you admire the waves. It’s equally popular for water sports such as kayaking and kite-surfing, whilst the village itself is home to a good selection of restaurants, pubs and cafes.


Beadnell Bay

Behind the harbour on Beadnell Point you will find the remains of a small stone chapel. Sitting within a series of earthwork, this is thought to be St Ebba’s Chapel.

The Chapel was reputedly built in the 13th century by King Oswald of Northumbria for his sister, the daughter of the Anglo-Saxon King Aethelfrith, Saint Ebba.

Be sure to check the Beadnell Bay tide times ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment!


Farnea (Farne Islands)

An enchanting collection of islands, this archipelago has been internationally recognised as one of the main breeding sites for seabirds in Northern Europe.

A visit to the 14th Century Cuthbert’s Chapel on Inner Farne is a fascinating experience. Discover more about its former inhabitants, the history of the chapel itself and the 10 years that St Cuthbert spent living as a hermit on the island.

A boat docked alongside the colourful rocks at the Farne Islands

Daily boat trips run from the nearby harbour in Seahouses to the islands, weather dependent of course. Visitors are likely to be enthralled by the comical puffins, seabirds and colony of grey seals.

If you’re lucky enough, you might also catch sight of a native pod of dolphins. These heartwarming aquatic mammals are rumoured to play amongst the waves as you journey to and from the islands.

Find out more about Farne Islands boat trips and tours here.


Lindisfarena (Lindisfarne/Holy Island)

Also known as Holy Island, Lindisfarne provides its visitors with a space of tranquil beauty. This landmark of The Last Kingdom has been a place of pilgrimage enjoyed for hundreds of years.

It has played an important role in history, home to St Cuthbert and the Lindisfarne Gospels. It has also seen its fair share of invasions, with waves of Vikings attacking Lindisfarne Abbey and ransacking its contents.

Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island

In his novels, Cornwell describes the journey of the body of St Cuthbert, which was historically well documented. History tells of Uhtred the Bold helping to transport the body of St Cuthbert from Lindisfarne to his final resting place in Durham Cathedral.

The island is joined to the mainland by a tidal causeway. Covered twice a day by the sea, Lindisfarne Island is often completely secluded.

Be sure to check the Lindisfarne Island crossing times ahead of your visit, or you might find yourself stranded! There’s a collection of bars, restaurants, cafes and shops on the island itself, along with some must-see historical landmarks.


Are you tempted to walk in the footsteps of Uhtred of Bebbanburg and uncover the historic landmarks featured in The Last Kingdom?

All these wonderful places mentioned are within easy touring distance of our self-catering holiday cottages in Northumberland.  Why not soak up the rich history and striking scenery of our amazing county on your next visit?

And for more exciting ways to spend your time here, give our guide on our top 5 visitors attractions a read!


This blog has been updated based on original content written by Northumbria Coast & Country Cottages.