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by Maia Noden / Things to do
Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Berwick-upon-Tweed?
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a family holiday, or just passing through, this charming Northumberland border town offers a perfect mix of history, coastal scenery and hidden gems. In this guide, you’ll discover the very best things to do in Berwick-upon-Tweed, from free attractions and scenic walks to must-visit beaches and fascinating day trips nearby.
Read on to find out the top things to do in Berwick-upon-Tweed and start planning your visit today…
Frequently Asked Questions about Berwick-upon-Tweed
Free Things To Do in Berwick-upon-Tweed
Paid-for Activities in Berwick-upon-Tweed
Day Trips & Things to do near Berwick-upon-Tweed
Nestled in Northumberland, this northernmost town is situated a few miles from the southernmost part of the Scottish Border. Berwick-upon-Tweed rests on the northeast coast at the mouth of the River Tweed.
There are many reasons to visit Berwick-upon-Tweed, from its breathtaking coastal views and golden beaches to its fascinating history as a former Anglo-Scottish battleground. Continue reading to discover all the best experiences waiting for you here…
Berwick-upon-Tweed is famous for its rich history as a strategic border town, having changed hands between England and Scotland many times. It’s also known for its well-preserved Elizabethan town walls and, not to forget, its stunning coastal scenery.
You don’t need to spend money to enjoy exploring the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. Whether you are after budget-friendly exploration or ready to discover hidden gems, here are some great free activities to keep you busy during your visit to this border town.
Take a wander along the Berwick Town Walls and visit the landmark, Plomer’s Tower (also known as Fisher’s Fort), where you can enjoy elevated views across the River Tweed. The Elizabethan walls stretch just over a mile and offers a scenic, accessibility-friendly walk that takes around 45 minutes to complete, perfect for soaking up Berwick’s rich history and stopping for a picnic along the way.
To access the walls, you’ll find free, all-day parking available at Castlegate car park and Castlegate overflow car park, while Bridge street provides a convenient 2-hour free parking option for shorter visits.
While you’re exploring, don’t miss the Dewars Lane Lowry Trail, which winds through the charming Rose Garden and Flagstaff Park – a lovely green space to relax all afternoon. This free, self-guided route follows in the footsteps of renowned artist L.S. Lowry, taking you through Berwick, Tweedmouth, and Spittal.
Inspired by over thirty artworks he created while holidaying in the area, the trail takes around three hours and reveals the coastal scenes that shaped some of his most iconic seaside paintings – many of which remain hidden gems to this day.
Just a short distance away, Berwick Lighthouse offers a nice exploration. A great couple of hours can be spent here and in the surrounding area, watching wildlife and taking a scenic stroll down the pier.
It’s a lovely half-mile walk, and with free parking nearby (maximum 3 hours), there’s plenty of time to soak in the coastal views and crisp sea air.
If your furry friend is joining the fun too, be sure to browse our guide to the best dog walks in Northumberland.
Berwick’s beaches are perfect for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or simply some splash-tastic fun. If you’re looking for family things to do, look no further than the glorious sands of the town’s beaches.
On the seaward side of the pier, you’ll find a gloriously sandy, sheltered beach, protected by a rocky reef – perfect for a leisurely paddle or a peaceful moment by the water. The reef continues north for about a mile, leading to a cove with another stretch of golden sand.
To the south of the river, you’ll discover the sandy beaches of Spittal, a local favourite, and Cocklawburn, both great for scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. Just beyond lies Cheswick Black Rocks, one of the finest beaches in Britain.
Book by the Sea Berwick Library is a charming little stop off on route to Berwick’s beach front. For literacy lovers, this tiny book swap hut is a delightful find.
From here, you can easily access the beach – and with benches nearby, it’s great for grabbing a book and enjoying a read along the coast.
Free parking is available at several convenient locations nearby these beaches. For Spittal, you’ll find free 2-hour parking at Sandstell Road, Spittal Point, and Main Street.
Cocklawburn and Cheswick are best accessed via roadside parking areas or nearby lay-bys, which are also free and popular with beach-goers.
One of our favourite things to do in Berwick-upon-Tweed is to search for fossils on Cocklawburn beach. It is believed that here you can find the remains of ancient sea-creatures from over 340 million years ago.
Berwick-upon-Tweed is steeped in history, with countless walks leading in and around the iconic walled town. Whatever your ability, you’re sure to find the perfect two-footed adventure here.
Discover the vibrant history of Berwick with a stroll around the town walls. Built in the early 14th century, the original walls stretched over two miles in length – though only fragments remain today. Built in 1558, the later Elizabethan walls still stands proudly, offering a fantastic glimpse into Berwick’s turbulent past.
Just a short stroll from the town centre, Berwick Castle stands proudly offering an insight into the town’s medieval defences. Sitting beside the railway station, the castle’s structure is now mostly in ruins.
For those craving a longer outdoor challenge, the Berwickshire Coast Path is a must. Beginning in Berwick, the path covers 15 miles of scenic coastline, passing through charming villages like Burnmouth and Eyemouth, before ending up at the rugged beauty of St Abbs Head.
Discover more fascinating castles to explore in Northumberland with our handy guide.
Berwick Boat Trips make a fantastic day out for family and friends. This family-run business takes you for a scenic journey along the River Tweed, where you can spot seabirds, seals, and if you’re lucky even dolphins splashing nearby!
With seven different trips to choose from, prices range from £18.00 per adult / £12.00 per child to £50.00 per adult / £35.00 per child, making it easy to find an experience that suits your group and budget.
We can all agree that eating out is one of the most important parts of any trip! Whether you’re on holiday, passing through on a big car journey, or simply wishing to explore somewhere new.
Atelier is a trendy cafe, bar and restaurant serving food up until 8pm – perfect for a relaxed dine any time of the day.
MAVI Turkish Restaurant offers a traditional and authentic Turkish cuisine, bringing tasty foods to the heart of Berwick.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant serves locally sourced dishes, including vegan food options and seasonal daily catch. Whether you’re dining as a family, catching up with friends after sandy adventures, or indulging in a classic British dinner for two with their fancy fish and chips, there is something delicious for every kind of outing.
Northern Soul Kitchen is a small cafe, ideal for a quick coffee and bite to eat. It’s a pay-what-you-can cafe using surplus food, so it’s sustainable, welcoming and definitely worth a stop.
What better way than to round off your day than with a refreshing drink?
The Barrels is full of character, dog-friendly, and often hosts live music, making it a great stop for atmosphere and well-poured pint. The Brown Bear is another solid choice for a casual drink, while The Red Lion provides a cosy setting for an evening of winding down.
If you want to get more dressed up, head to As Good As It Gets for cocktails with a touch of flair. And for couples or small groups of friends, make sure to add Flinders Wine Bar to your list of things to do – you can savour an evening of cheese, wine, and friendly conservation in a pleasant setting.
Experience the culture of the area and head over to the bustling markets held in the town centre of Berwick-upon-Tweed every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am-4pm. If you’re not in the mood to fine out, it’s a good chance to grab some fresh local food and cook up something tasty yourself.
Berwick is a well-served destination for golf enthusiasts, with many links courses within easy reach. Be sure to pack your clubs and head out for an afternoon testing your swing against a backdrop of coastal beauty!
Magdalene Fields Golf Club is the most northerly golf course in England and located not far from Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle. It’s 18 holes offer beautiful views of the North Sea and a relaxed yet rewarding challenge for all skill levels.
Green fees range from £45 on weekdays to £50 on weekend during summer. Free on-site parking is available for visitors.
Swing into action by checking out our Northumberland Golf Guide.
If you can tear yourself away from the delights of this charming border town, there are plenty of things to do near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Not only is Berwick perfectly positioned to explore Northumberland, it also benefits from easily accessible public transport links.
Board the train from Berwick-upon-Tweed railway station and travel to the bustling cities of Edinburgh or Newcastle. Both less than an hour by train, there are plenty of things to do near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Advance fares start from just £7.20 to Edinburgh and £6.90 to Newcastle, making it an affordable way to explore beyond the borders. In Edinburgh, walk the Royal Mile to uncover the fascinating history of Edinburgh Castle, or browse the boutiques and traditional pubs of the Old Town.
Prefer something a little more lively? Head to Newcastle and enjoy a night out on the town at the buzzing Bigg Market. There’s plenty of shopping and sightseeing opportunities, meaning you won’t be short on things to see and do!
With frequent services, it’s never been easier to add a spontaneous city break onto your Berwick-upon-Tweed adventure.
Get up close and personal to some of nature’s most fascinating creatures at Andy Howey Bird of Prey and Reptiles Centre. From beautiful birds of prey to small creepy crawlies, this unique experience is a great opportunity no matter the weather (and for all ages).
Located in the grounds of Haggerston Castle, this display usually lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour and offers everyone the chance to meet all the friendly animals.
Entry is just £12.00 per person and children under 3 go free!
Just six miles south lies Goswick Links, a championship course that’s hosted regional qualifiers for The Open. Morning rounds range from £85-£100, while afternoon tee times are slightly lower at £50-£80. free parking is also available at the club, making it easy to enjoy a full day on the green.
One of our favourite things to do near Berwick-upon-Tweed, this course ensures a memorable golfing experience. Enjoy far-reaching coastal views and undulating greens as you make your shot.
Across the border in Scotland, Eyemouth Golf Club awaits. The 18-hole cliff-top links course boasts a spectacular coastal setting and it’s most challenging hole is The Hawk Ness Monster, the longest par 5 in Britain.
Summer green fees are £45 on weekdays and £49.95 on weekends, with full-day passes available from £65.50. Free parking is available on-site.
Beginners fear not, there’s also a practice area and driving range on-site to test your swing.
Just 25 minutes from Berwick-upon-Tweed by car, this secluded tidal island sits off the Northumberland Coast AONB, joined to the mainland by a causeway. Twice a day, this tidal causeway is flooded with seawater, leaving Holy Island inaccessible, so make sure to check the tide times before you go.
Once a place of pilgrimage, today Holy Island is bustling with amenities, attractions, and historic landmarks. Explore the fascinating 16th-century history of Lindisfarne Castle, or spend a peaceful afternoon paddling the shores of Holy Island beach.
If you time it right, you can walk the Pilgrim’s Way. A unique walking experience, the route follows a line of vertical poles east from the mainland to the island, crossing the original pilgrim’s causeway.
Free parking is available near the village centre, and bus services run from Berwick-upon-Tweed on tide-dependent schedules.
Have you been inspired to visit this renowned border town after reading our guide on our favourite things to do in Northumberland?
Book your stay in one of these Berwick-upon-Tweed holiday cottages today and start planning your itinerary!
For more inspiration on how to spend your time, give our guide on where to dine out in Northumberland a read!
by Maia Noden / Things to do
Hi! I'm Maia, and I have been working in UK travel since January 2024. I’m originally from Chester, and I studied Journalism at ...
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