Walkers on a coastal path approaching Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island, with blue skies, grassy dunes, and the Northumberland Coast National Landscape.

Walking Holidays and Outdoor Adventures in the Northumberland Coast National Landscape

Wild Shores, Big Skies, and Castle-Crowned Walks Along England’s Northern Coast

Where sweeping beaches meet ancient fortresses — and every walk feels open, elemental, and full of history.

The Northumberland Coast National Landscape (formerly AONB) is one of England’s most beautiful shoreline regions, stretching from Berwick-upon-Tweed down to Amble. Known for its vast sandy beaches, tidal islands, dramatic dunes, and castle-lined headlands, it offers a unique blend of wild coastal scenery and deeply historic landscapes — perfect for self-guided walking holidays and outdoor adventures.

Walkers can follow long-distance routes like the Northumberland Coast Path and St Oswald’s Way, explore tidal causeways to Holy Island (Lindisfarne), or wander miles of remote dunes at Ross Back Sands and Druridge Bay. With far fewer crowds than other English coasts, this is a place to breathe, slow down, and explore at your own pace.

Where to Walk

Northumberland Coast Path

A 62-mile long-distance trail from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, passing castles such as Dunstanburgh and Bamburgh, sweeping beaches, estuaries, dunes, and wildlife-rich coastal reserves.

Holy Island (Lindisfarne) Causeway & Island Trails

Walk across the sands at safe tide times or take the road causeway to explore priory ruins, castle viewpoints, serene beaches, and atmospheric saltmarsh.

St Oswald’s Way (Coastal Sections)

A 97-mile route linking places associated with Northumbria’s early Christianity. Coastal stretches between Warkworth, Craster, and Bamburgh offer quiet, scenic walking.

Bamburgh to Seahouses & Beadnell

An iconic section with huge beaches, castle backdrops, dunes, birdlife, and fishing villages — ideal for relaxed day walks.

Dunstanburgh Castle & Embleton Bay

One of England’s most dramatic coastal walks, with a medieval fortress rising above black basalt cliffs.

Ross Back Sands & Budle Bay

Remote, untouched dunes and wide open shore — perfect for solitude and wildlife watching.

Highlights

Adventure Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Northumberland Coast National Landscape?

It runs along England’s far northeast coast, from Berwick-upon-Tweed down to Amble, covering some of the most scenic stretches of shoreline in the county of Northumberland.

What are the best walks in the area?

The Northumberland Coast Path, Holy Island causeway and island loops, Dunstanburgh Castle to Craster or Embleton, Bamburgh to Seahouses, and Ross Back Sands.

Is Holy Island safe to walk to?

Yes — but only at safe tide times. Always check the tide timetable from the local authorities before crossing the sands or causeway.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring to early autumn offers ideal walking conditions, but winter brings dramatic seas and quiet beaches. Birdwatching is excellent year-round.

Are the trails suitable for beginners?

Yes — most coastal paths are flat or gently undulating, with clear waymarking and straightforward navigation.