Embleton & Dunstan Steads 

Magnificent beach and majestic ruins 

Embleton is a small village dating back beyond medieval times, lying just a mile from the Northumberland coast. Viewed from the sea, the undulating whinstone ridge that shelters the village, resembles a caterpillar, hence the old name Emeldune, meaning the hill of the caterpillar. One of the main attractions is the stunning Embleton Bay, a gloriously wide sandy beach that seems to stretch for miles into the distance. With several restaurants and pubs such as the Dunstanburgh Castle and Grey’s Inn, there is a choice for eating out or maybe having a well-deserved ‘cold’ drink after a walk, or how about sitting with an ice-cream from the village Post Office whilst the children are happily amused in the well-equipped play park. The quiet hamlet of Dunstan Steads is just a few miles south, set in a beautifully tranquil location, only a five minute walk from Embleton Bay. 

A day at the beach 

Embleton Bay is one of England’s most breathtaking beaches with golden sand, towering dunes and views to the ruined Dunstanburgh Castle, you will rarely find such a dramatic setting. There is also an intriguing collection of wartime pillboxes, which remain only because access across the adjacent golf course was denied to the demolition gang. At low tide the beach is incredibly wide and reveals a number of rock pools that are perfect for exploring. Surfing is popular here as the bay creates some great breakers in the right weather conditions. 

These boots are made for walking 

The wonderful Northumberland coastline makes Embleton an excellent base for walking. There is a 7 mile circular walk taking in Craster and Beadnell and recently the Embleton Heritage Trails Project was launched which explores the history of the parish and its surrounding area. 

Get on your bike 

The Coast and Castles Route passes through Embleton. It is highly scenic, taking in Dunstanburgh castle, and relatively flat, making it attractive for many cyclists. 

The 19th Tee 

If there is one reason for golfers to come to Northumberland this James Braid classic is it! Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club, just outside the village, is an excellent 18-hole course with stunning views of Dunstanburgh Castle. Designed by the great golf course architect James Braid, it offers a challenge to golfers of all levels and abilities. 

Give it a go 

Visit the 12th century Holy Trinity Church restored in Victorian times. 

Explore Newton Pool Nature Reserve, excellent for bird watching. 

Find Vanishing Rock with Andra Barton’s name carved in it, a pirate killed in a sea battle in 1511. 

Sign up for a surf lesson with Northside Surf School. 

The ‘Tea’ Trail 

Eleanor’s Byre – small but worth it and great for gifts too. 

A few of our holidaymakers’ favourite things 

Embleton Bay is probably one of the best beaches we have ever been to. It is sheltered, with a stunning backdrop of Dunstanburgh castle and is never crowded. My children loved it and spent the day building sandcastles. 

The golf club and course were great and we were made to feel very welcome. 

Saw a dolphin in the sea whilst at Embleton Bay. This has been our most relaxing holiday in a while and will definitely be booking again for next year. 

A lovely village and all the locals were very friendly. We cycled from the cottage most days and the sur-rounding countryside was beautiful.