Bamburgh & Budle Bay 

Iconic – need we say any more! 

This dramatic coastline ravaged by nature and steeped in history makes Bamburgh one of the most sought after villages in Northumberland. With a story around every corner you can spend the day exploring its imposing castle, historic church and glorious sandy beach. The village has local shops, tearooms, restaurants, pubs and a children’s playground, all within walking distance of each other. 

Once home to the kings of ancient Northumbria, Bamburgh Castle is now one of Northumberland’s most iconic buildings. Restored by Lord Armstrong in 1900, he also built the popular Armstrong Cottages. Bamburgh was also home to the heroine Grace Darling who in 1838 rowed an open boat to rescue shipwrecked sailors. 

Birds of a feather flock together at Budle Bay 

The hamlet of Waren Mill and surrounding area of Budle Bay was once a significant port given its charter by Henry III. This once busy harbour has long since disappeared and the original mill has been converted into luxury apartments. 

Budle Bay, 1½ miles north of Bamburgh, is one of the best bird watching locations in Britain. The vast mud flats exposed at low tide form part of the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve and this rich feeding ground is home to a fascinating array of wildlife. In autumn it comes alive with huge flocks of wintering waterfowl. 

A day at the beach 

Bamburgh beach is not only breathtaking but seems to go on forever and being overshadowed by the castle gives it a very dramatic feel. This vast expanse of golden sand is backed by high dunes and is easily accessible. At the north end it turns rockier which is perfect for rock pooling. Budle Bay is very popular with kite surfers. 

Take a hike or get on your bike 

There are many enjoyable walking and cycling routes from Bamburgh. The coastal area is interesting to explore on foot with plenty of options for all abilities and there is a popular 21 mile circular cycle route passing inland through hamlets before heading back up the coast. 

The 19th Tee 

Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is an 18-hole links course with panoramic views and from the 15th hole a total of 5 castles can be seen. This par 68 course tests not only your golf but also the forces of nature. 

‘Give it a Go’ 

Find Stag Rocks and look down at the magnificent exposure of Whin Sill. 

Follow the Bamburgh Clue Trail and discover the village’s rich history. 

Fly a kite on Bamburgh’s vast open beach. 

Visit Cragside House, Gardens & Estate near Rothbury built by Lord Armstrong (dogs allowed in 

grounds). 

Visit the RNLI Grace Darling Museum to find out more about this local heroine. 

The ‘Tea’ Trail 

Wyndenwell, Front Street – also sells gifts and a great delicatessen. 

A few of our holidaymakers’ favourite things … 

Bamburgh beach was exceptionally clean, dog friendly with miles of lovely beach to walk on. Loved Bamburgh village with its quaint little shops, hotels etc. and enjoyed some great meals out. 

Budle Bay is fantastic and first thing in the morning with the sun shining on the miles of white sand and glistening blue sea you could be anywhere in the world. It was magic and the dogs loved swimming in the sea too. Thumbs up from all of us. 

The kids bought a sledge and spent hours sledging down the sand dunes. Bamburgh castle is a stunning part of the landscape and is truly fascinating to visit. The view of the castle from the beach is amazing. 

We are golfers and Northumberland is a golfer’s dream. The golf course at Bamburgh is fantastic and has the most spectacular views. Northumberland is breathtaking!