Coastal Holiday Cottages and Sea Views in Craster
Craster is a traditional fishing village with stone cottages overlooking a small harbour on the Northumberland coast. Its coastal holiday homes include cottages near the waterfront and properties with sea views, while the village’s rocky shoreline and nearby sandy beaches provide plenty of opportunities for coastal walks. The ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle are just over a mile north of Craster, and the surrounding coastline includes Embleton Bay, Cullernose Point and several quieter coves.
Craster Harbour, Dunstanburgh Castle and Coastal Walks
Craster Harbour is at the centre of village life, with fishing boats, traditional stone houses and views towards Dunstanburgh Castle. The village is famous for Craster kippers, produced by L. Robson & Sons using traditional smoking methods. Visitors can buy smoked fish locally or enjoy seafood at The Jolly Fisherman, a well-known pub overlooking the harbour.
The walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle is one of Northumberland’s most popular coastal routes. The castle is approximately 1.3 miles from the village along a grassy coastal path, with rocky sections near the entrance. Built in the 14th century, the ruined fortress occupies a prominent headland overlooking the North Sea.
Continuing north beyond the castle brings you to Embleton Bay, a wide sandy beach backed by dunes. The beach is popular for walking, with views of the castle from the northern shoreline. For accommodation near this stretch of coast, explore our collection of Embleton cottages by the sea.
South of Craster, the coastal path continues towards Cullernose Point and Howick, passing rocky cliffs and small coves. This quieter section is popular with walkers and offers views along the Northumberland coastline.
Howick Hall, Local Wildlife and Places to Visit
Howick Hall Gardens and Arboretum is a short drive south of Craster. The estate has woodland walks, landscaped gardens and a tearoom, with seasonal displays of flowers and plants throughout the year.
Craster also has the Arnold Memorial Nature Reserve, managed by Northumberland Wildlife Trust. The reserve provides habitats for a variety of birds, making it an interesting place to visit alongside the nearby coastal walks.
The Mick Oxley Gallery in Craster features paintings and artwork inspired by the Northumberland coastline. Visitors can also explore the village’s historic buildings and learn about its fishing and quarrying heritage.
Further south, the market town of Alnwick is home to Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden. To the north, Low Newton-by-the-Sea has a small sandy bay, traditional fishermen’s cottages and a village pub. The coastal walk from Craster to Low Newton passes Dunstanburgh Castle and Embleton Bay, covering approximately 7.7 miles on the National Trust’s circular route.
For more seaside villages, sandy beaches and historic coastal towns, browse our selection of Northumberland cottages with sea views, including properties around Bamburgh, Beadnell, Seahouses and Alnmouth.
