The Northumberland Coast Path is one of the UK’s most captivating long-distance walking trails. Stretching for 62 miles (100 kilometers) from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north, it winds its way through a landscape of sweeping sandy beaches, dramatic castles, secluded coves, quaint fishing villages, and wildlife-rich dunes. Officially designated as part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this path offers a powerful blend of natural serenity and historical resonance.
Introduction: A Hidden Gem of the Northeast
Northumberland, England’s northernmost county, is known for its sparse population, rugged beauty, and deep historical roots. While some walkers may be more familiar with the likes of the Pennine Way or the South West Coast Path, the Northumberland Coast Path has a unique charm: it’s uncrowded, tranquil, and yet overflowing with wonder. Whether you are a seasoned long-distance hiker or someone seeking a peaceful multi-day coastal escape, this path delivers unforgettable experiences.
Route Overview
- Distance: ~100 km (62 miles)
- Duration: 4 to 7 days (depending on pace)
- Difficulty: Moderate – mostly flat terrain with well-marked paths
- Trailheads: South – Cresswell, North – Berwick-upon-Tweed
- Waymarking: Acorn symbol (shared with the England Coast Path)
The path can be walked in either direction, though most walkers begin in Cresswell and head north. This direction follows prevailing winds and ends with a dramatic finale at the Scottish border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Cresswell to Warkworth (11 miles / 18 km)
The journey begins at Cresswell, a quiet village with a beautiful crescent-shaped beach. The trail quickly introduces its trademark terrain: open skies, soft sands, and seabird calls.
Highlights of this section include:
- Druridge Bay – a seven-mile stretch of undeveloped beach, ideal for solitude and birdwatching.
- Druridge Pools Nature Reserve – a haven for migratory birds.
- Arrival in Warkworth, a charming village dominated by the medieval Warkworth Castle, dramatically positioned on a loop of the River Coquet.
Day 2: Warkworth to Alnmouth (6 miles / 10 km)
A relatively short section, perfect for a leisurely morning. The path follows the coast past saltmarshes and dunes to the colourful village of Alnmouth.
- The River Aln estuary is picturesque and often dotted with small fishing boats.
- Alnmouth itself has a thriving arts scene, cozy pubs, and cafés—perfect for a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 3: Alnmouth to Craster (9 miles / 14 km)
Leaving Alnmouth, the path heads through pastureland and back to the coast near Boulmer, a quiet fishing hamlet that still retains its traditional feel.
- Dunstanburgh Castle looms in the distance—an iconic, brooding ruin perched on a black rocky headland.
- Craster, your destination, is famous for its kippers (smoked herring) and rugged coastline. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh seafood.
Day 4: Craster to Seahouses (10 miles / 16 km)
One of the most scenic stretches, this day offers castle views, pristine beaches, and coastal heath.
- Pass through Embleton Bay, often voted one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
- Explore Newton-by-the-Sea and Beadnell Bay, where sandy beaches meet rocky promontories.
- Arrive in Seahouses, the largest town along the path, offering a chance to take boat trips to the Farne Islands—home to puffins, grey seals, and thousands of seabirds.
Day 5: Seahouses to Bamburgh (3 miles / 5 km)
This shorter stage can be combined with another day or taken slowly to enjoy the spectacular arrival into Bamburgh, one of England’s most photogenic villages.
- Bamburgh Castle dominates the skyline—an immense fortress with roots dating back to the 6th century.
- The wide beach here is ideal for reflective walking, kite-flying, or simply watching the waves.
Day 6: Bamburgh to Belford (11 miles / 18 km)
Leaving the immediate coastline behind, this section takes a brief inland detour through wetlands and rolling farmland, with stunning views back towards the coast and castle.
- Cross past Budle Bay, an important habitat for waterfowl.
- Arrive at the quiet village of Belford, where you can rest before the final push to Berwick.
Day 7: Belford to Berwick-upon-Tweed (13 miles / 21 km)
The final day is long but rewarding. The trail rejoins the coast near Holy Island (Lindisfarne), accessible via a tidal causeway (a detour for those with extra time).
- Marvel at Holy Island’s monastic history and spiritual ambiance.
- Continue along dunes and clifftops, passing wild beaches and rugged outcrops.
- Finish at Berwick-upon-Tweed, a historic walled town with strong Scottish-English heritage, perched at the mouth of the River Tweed.
Nature and Wildlife
The Northumberland Coast Path is a paradise for nature lovers. The route passes through numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and nature reserves:
- Farne Islands: Accessible from Seahouses, these islands are internationally renowned for their puffin colonies, Arctic terns, and grey seals.
- Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve: A haven for migratory birds, saltmarsh plants, and wildflowers.
- Druridge Bay: A prime birdwatching location year-round.
Expect to see:
- Lapwings, curlews, redshanks, oystercatchers, and eiders
- Foxes and roe deer in quieter stretches
- Dolphins and seals offshore, especially near Bamburgh and Lindisfarne
History and Heritage
Few trails in the UK are as steeped in history. The castles, churches, and ancient settlements scattered along the route tell stories of Vikings, saints, monarchs, and border wars.
- Warkworth Castle: 12th-century Norman fortress
- Alnmouth: Once a thriving port, now a peaceful village
- Dunstanburgh Castle: Built by Thomas of Lancaster as a show of power
- Bamburgh Castle: Former seat of Northumbrian kings
- Lindisfarne Priory: Birthplace of Christianity in England, raided by Vikings in 793 AD
- Berwick-upon-Tweed: Switched between England and Scotland over a dozen times, its Elizabethan walls remain intact
Accommodation and Facilities
There are plenty of walker-friendly accommodations along the way:
- B&Bs, guesthouses, and inns in every major stop
- Some camping options near Seahouses and Warkworth
- Public transport links make it possible to walk in stages and return to base each day
Luggage transfer services are also available, allowing for lightweight day walking while your bags move ahead to your next stop.
When to Go
- Best months: May to September
- Spring and early summer offer wildflowers, nesting seabirds, and long daylight hours.
- Autumn can be stunning, with fewer crowds and migratory birds filling the skies.
Weather can be unpredictable—bring layers and waterproofs—but the reward is a relatively peaceful and uncrowded experience, even in peak season.
Final Thoughts: A Soul-Stirring Adventure
The Northumberland Coast Path is more than a walk—it’s a journey through centuries, landscapes, and quiet reflections. With every step, you encounter a different story, a different view, and a different emotion. From the solitude of windswept sands to the drama of castle silhouettes against pink skies, the path invites contemplation, wonder, and appreciation for a region often overlooked.
For those seeking a walk that is gentle yet powerful, cultural yet wild, and uncommercialized yet unforgettable, the Northumberland Coast Path might just be the UK’s best-kept walking secret.