Northumberland Coastal Path Map and Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive: Ellington(2 miles from Cresswell)

There is no accommodation in Cresswell itself so your first night’s accommodation will be in the nearby town of Ellington. Ellington is a 45 minute bus journey from Newcastle which is easily reached via train (3hr from London or 2h 30 from Manchester). There is also an international airport in Newcastle.

Ellington is a small village on the coast of Northumberland close to the start of the walk.

Day 2

Transfer to Cresswell/Walk to Warkworth - 10.5 miles

A short taxi journey (15 minutes) will bring you to the start of the Northumberland Coastal Path in the village of Cresswell. We will provide numbers for local taxis in your pre-departure information pack. Start off by following the sweeping sands of Druridge Bay, with the sound of the surf accompanying you, to the small fishing port of Amble. You may also spot some of the abundant birdlife, with the area being home to several nature reserves. From Amble it is just a short walk to the ancient village of Warkworth and it’s grand castle.

Warkworth has a long history as an ancient fortified village, originally held by the Anglo-Saxons. Today it is a great place to stop with plenty of interesting craft shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Day 3

Warkworth to Craster—13 Miles

Today’s walk is all about pretty Northumbrian fishing villages. Arrive first in the picturesque Alnmouth and another great spot for wildlife enthusiasts at the Aln Estuary. From here, head towards the old smuggling town of Boulmer. Enjoy taking in the delightful seaside smells - catch here includes crab, lobsters and sea salmon. Finally, you will arrive in Craster where you can quench your appetite and sample some of the delicious local cuisine, Craster kippers.

Craster is a small village with an attractive harbour . From here there are stunning views towards the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.

Day 4

Craster to Seahouses - 10 miles

Not long after leaving today, you will marvel at the ancient ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle which you can see from Craster. Following this, some delightful walking alongside the sandy bays of Beadnell and Embleton will bring you to Seahouses.

Seahouses is a bustling harbour town, most famous as the hopping off point for the fascinating Farne Islands. The Farne Islands are the most famous bird sanctuary in the British Isles and are home to an abundance of wildlife including puffins, guillemot, and grey seals.If you have time, it is definitely worth adding an extra day in Seahouses in order to visit the Islands.

Day 5

Seahouses to Belford - 10.5 miles

Today’s walk will start to take you inland for a short while to discover the historic villages of Bamburgh and Belford. Bamburgh Castle is a magnificent sight, sitting high on an outcrop over the beach. The scenery starts to change after leaving Bamburgh, as you walk through fields instead of along the coast before arriving at Belford.

Belford is a pretty little village and features include an original 18th century coaching inn.

Day 6

Belford to Fenwick - 7 miles

Some further inland walking through farmland and woodland today, rewarded with some stunning views towards Holy Island from Kyloe Ridge. You will also follow the historical St Cuthbert’s Way for part of today. We highly recommend taking the short side trip to see the fascinating St Cuthbert’s Cave, where the body of St Cuthbert  was reputedly taken when the monks had to flee to safety from Lindisfarne when the vikings raided.

Fenwick is a fairly small town with limited facilities but your B&B will run you to the pub for dinner.

Day 7

Fenwick to Berwick-upon-Tweed - 13 miles

Your final day’s walking will take you past the causeway over to Holy Island before following  cliff top paths with dramatic views to the historic Berwick-upon-Tweed. If you have time (and the safe crossing times permit) you may even wish to visit Holy Island. Safe crossing times can be checked here.

Berwick-upon-Tweed has a fascinating history, with hands changed between Scotland and England for centuries. Enjoy taking in some of the many interesting architectural features such as its old defence ramparts or ancient town walls. Berwick also has a wide variety of shops, restaurants and cafes making it the perfect place to celebrate the end of your walk.

Day 8 - Onward Travel

Berwick-upon-Tweed is on the main East Coast rail-line and regular trains will take you to Edinburgh (45m) Newcastle (45m) or London (4 hours).

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