Over 4,000 castles dot the United Kingdom. Some date as far back as the Iron Age, and many live on merely as a few bits of broken wall in a field. Still, hundreds more are remarkably well-preserved, commanding the center of modern cities, looming from hilltops, or keeping silent watch over rivers, estuaries, and the nation’s coastline. These British castles hold a special place in the public imagination, and few are as iconic as Bamburgh Castle, standing proud on its headland overlooking one of the best seaside destinations in the country.
Although seaside vacations aren’t as popular as they once were in their heyday of the mid-20th century, a trip to the coast is still synonymous with holiday time for many. In a recent survey for Which?, over 3,000 visitors whittled down the vast array of gorgeous seaside locations to just one, picking Bamburgh as the best for the third year running. Classic resorts like Eastbourne or Brighton may be the names that spring to mind when we think of a day trip from London to the seaside. Still, the poll’s top ten reveals that promenades, piers, and penny arcades are being ditched by discerning vacationers in favor of cozy coastal harbors and villages in more remote locations. And when it comes to remote places in England, Bamburgh has a lot of the competition beat.
Where is Bamburgh located in the UK?
Bamburgh is almost as far north as you can drive from London without changing countries, nestled on the east coast in the wild and remote county of Northumberland. It is so far north, in fact, that it lies beyond Hadrian’s Wall and is only a short hop to the modern Scottish border. Known for its big, open landscapes and isolated beaches, the region is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and people looking for peace and quiet.
Bamburgh Castle dominates the area from its rocky promontory jutting out towards the North Sea, and you don’t need to be a military strategist to see why it was such an important stronghold and the seat of power in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria. With a history dating back well over 1,000 years, the castle faced marauding Vikings and cannon fire during the War of the Roses. It is now the photogenic focal point as you stroll along Bamburgh’s vast expanse of sandy beach, which runs for around 2.5 kilometers.
On a clear day, you can look out to sea and see the holy island of Lindisfarne, which can be reached by foot along the Pilgrim’s Way when the tide is out, and the Farne Islands, where seal pups are born each year. Kids love the beach at Bamburgh because it is perfect for sandcastles and paddling, while surfers congregate here to take advantage of the swells coming in off the North Sea.
What to see and do in Bamburgh
Although the village of Bamburgh only has a population of around 300 people, it is well-geared towards catering to the thousands of tourists who visit each year. Away from the wonderful beach, the main attraction is the castle, which has starred in many TV shows and Hollywood movies such as “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.” It’s well worth a visit to wander its halls and battlements, and there are regular exhibitions and events throughout the year. You can even get married in the magnificent King’s Hall or book a stay in the medieval Clock Tower. Another interesting place to check out is the RNLI Grace Darling Museum, which tells the remarkable tale of the young woman who bravely rescued nine survivors from a shipwreck in 1838.
Aside from digs at the castle, there are other places to stay, ranging from historic hotels to glamping. The Lord Crewe offers a beautiful boutique hotel experience with luxurious rooms and superb dining. You will generally be well-fed during your visit to Bamburgh, which has several great places for a bite. Tripadvisor users give The Rocking Horse Cafe full marks for its cozy atmosphere, big breakfasts, and afternoon teas. If seafood is your thing, The Potted Lobster comes highly recommended for dishes incorporating the best local produce. Bamburgh offers the perfect blend of creature comforts and the opportunity to escape it all.
