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Northumberland’s coastline feels refreshingly different to many other parts of the UK. It’s bigger, quieter and wonderfully un-spoilt, with wide sandy beaches, iconic castles, fishing villages and market towns that still feel rooted in everyday life. It’s the kind of place where you can walk for miles without seeing many people, watch seals and seabirds in their natural habitat, and enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh sea air and wide open spaces.
For holiday-makers, Northumberland in North East England offers huge variety whether you’re travelling as a couple, family or large group. Some towns are lively bases with boat trips and harbours, others are peaceful villages ideal for slowing down, and many are brilliant for dog-friendly breaks thanks to the county’s famously welcoming beaches. In this guide, we explore ten of the best towns for a coastal holiday in Northumberland, highlighting what makes each one special, the best nearby beaches, and what dog owners need to know before they visit.
1. Alnmouth
Did you know?
Alnmouth was once one of the most important ports in Northumberland, exporting grain and coal before a devastating storm in 1806 reshaped the village forever.
Why visit Alnmouth?
Alnmouth is one of Northumberland’s prettiest coastal villages, known for its colourful houses, golf course and expansive estuary views. It has a relaxed, upmarket feel without being flashy, and everything is within easy walking distance. The village works beautifully for couples, walkers and anyone looking for a calm seaside base with good food and scenery.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
- Alnmouth Beach – A large, sandy beach stretching for miles, ideal for long walks and sea views.
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome year-round, though owners are asked to keep dogs under control near wildlife and nesting birds, particularly around the estuary areas.
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2. Amble
Did you know?
Amble is known as “The Friendliest Port” and has one of the busiest small harbours in the region, with boats heading daily to the Farne Islands.
Why visit Amble?
Amble has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving into a lively coastal town known for its vibrant food scene, scenic marina walks, and a growing number of independent eateries. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a bustling atmosphere while still enjoying the charm of a traditional seaside town. Additionally, Amble serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby town of Warkworth and the stunning coastline.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Amble Links Beach – A long stretch of sand and dunes just south of the harbour.
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Dog-friendly: Generally dog-friendly all year, with sensible control advised (dog leads) around the dune wildlife.
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3. Bamburgh
Did you know?
Bamburgh Castle has stood in some form for over 1,400 years and was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Northumbria.
Why visit Bamburgh?
Bamburgh is one of the most iconic coastal destinations in England. The castle dominates the landscape, rising above rolling dunes and a huge sandy beach. It’s ideal for photographers, history lovers and anyone who enjoys wide-open coastal scenery. Despite its popularity, Bamburgh never feels overcrowded thanks to the sheer scale of its surroundings.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Bamburgh Beach – A spectacular, expansive beach with views of the castle and Holy Island.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome year-round. Owners are encouraged to keep dogs under close control near dunes and wildlife.
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4. Beadnell
Did you know?
Beadnell Bay is one of the few west-facing beaches on England’s east coast, making it a popular spot for sunsets.
Why visit Beadnell?
Beadnell is a small village with big appeal, particularly for outdoor lovers. It’s well known for water-sports, including kitesurfing and paddle-boarding, and has a friendly, laid-back feel. Beadnell works well for families, groups and active holiday-makers who want easy access to beaches and coastal paths.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Beadnell Bay – A sweeping bay with sand dunes and open water.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed, but there are seasonal restrictions in bird sanctuary areas, particularly during spring and summer when nesting birds are present. Dogs may need to be kept on leads in designated areas that are signposted.
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5. Belford
Did you know?
Although not directly on the coast, Belford was historically an important stopping point on the Great North Road between London and Edinburgh.
Why visit Belford?
Belford is a charming village just inland from the coast, making it an excellent base for exploring Northumberland’s beaches without staying in a busy seaside town. It’s popular with visitors who want peace and easy access to Bamburgh, Seahouses and Holy Island, while enjoying village pubs and countryside walks.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Bamburgh Beach (nearby)
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Ross Back Sands (near Holy Island)
- Dog-friendly: Both beaches are generally dog-friendly year-round, with seasonal requirements for dogs on leads near wildlife areas.
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6. Berwick-upon-Tweed
Did you know?
Berwick-upon-Tweed has changed hands between England and Scotland more than a dozen times, giving it a unique cultural identity.
Why visit Berwick-upon-Tweed?
Berwick is Northumberland’s northernmost town and offers a fascinating mix of history, architecture and coastline. Its Elizabethan walls, riverside walks and cultural venues make it ideal for visitors who enjoy combining sightseeing with coastal time. It also has excellent rail connections, making it one of the most accessible towns in the region.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Spittal Beach – A long promenade-backed beach just south of the town.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed on most of the beach year-round, though some promenade sections may request dogs on leads at busy times.
7. Craster
Did you know?
Craster is famous for its traditional smokehouse, producing kippers using time-honoured methods that have barely changed for over a century.
Why visit Craster?
Craster is a small fishing village with huge character. It’s best known as the starting point for the coastal walk to Dunstanburgh Castle, one of Northumberland’s most rewarding routes. Craster suits walkers, photographers and anyone who enjoys simple pleasures: coastal paths, harbour views and excellent seafood.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Craster Harbour & nearby rocky beaches
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Dunstanburgh Beach (accessible on foot)
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome year-round, with care needed around rocky areas and nesting seabirds along the coast path.
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8. Embleton
Did you know?
Embleton Bay regularly appears on lists of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, thanks to its views of Dunstanburgh Castle.
Why visit Embleton?
Embleton is a small village with a big reputation for beach lovers. It’s quieter than nearby Bamburgh but offers equally impressive scenery. Embleton is perfect for visitors who want a peaceful stay close to one of Northumberland’s finest beaches, with easy access to walking routes and historic sites.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Embleton Bay – A wide, sandy beach with dunes and castle views.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed all year, though owners should keep dogs under control near dunes and wildlife.
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9. Seahouses
Did you know?
Seahouses is the main departure point for boat trips to the Farne Islands, home to one of England’s largest seal colonies.
Why visit Seahouses?
Seahouses is one of the most vibrant coastal towns in Northumberland, making it a perfect spot for families and visitors looking for a variety of activities nearby. With its boat trips, arcades, shops, and famous fish and chip restaurants, it provides a classic seaside experience along with easy access to stunning natural attractions.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Seahouses Beach – A sandy beach close to the harbour.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are generally welcome, but restrictions may apply near harbour areas during busy periods.
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Beadnell Bay (nearby) – Dogs are allowed, but may need to be kept on leads in designated wildlife areas that are signposted.
10. Warkworth
Did you know?
Warkworth Castle appears in Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part 2, cementing its place in English literary history.
Why visit Warkworth?
Warkworth combines one of Northumberland’s prettiest villages with a lovely riverside setting and a short walk to the coast. The castle sits high above the River Coquet, and the village itself is full of independent shops, cafés and pubs. It’s an excellent all-round base for visitors who want history, long walks on the beach and village life all in one place.
Best beaches & dog friendliness
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Warkworth Beach – A quiet, sandy beach backed by dunes, reached by a short walk from the village.
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Dog-friendly: Dogs are allowed year-round, with guidance to keep dogs under control near dunes and wildlife (signposted).
Why Northumberland Is Ideal for Dog-Friendly Coastal Holidays
Northumberland is widely regarded as one of the most dog-friendly coastal regions in the UK. Most beaches welcome dogs throughout the year, and where restrictions exist, they are usually limited to:
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bird nesting areas
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seasonal sanctuary zones
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busy promenade sections
Clear signage is common, and nearby alternative beaches are almost always available, making it easy to plan stress-free days out with dogs. To find suitable accommodation, check out all of the dog friendly cottages in Northumberland listed with us, many that are within walking distance of the beach. Be sure to browse our dog friendly holiday tips, which includes a list of dog friendly beaches in Northumberland.
Northumberland Has a Coastal Town to Suit Everyone
Whether you’re drawn to the stunning Bamburgh, the lively harbour of Amble, the picturesque walking paths of Craster, or the peaceful allure of Embleton, Northumberland offers a coastal holiday experience that feels wonderfully spacious and relaxed. The towns and villages are close enough to explore in one trip, yet each has its own distinct character, making every visit feel new.
With its dog-friendly beaches, rich history, opportunities to see wildlife, and some of the most stunning coastal views in the UK, it’s no wonder that Northumberland draws so many holiday-makers year after year. If you’re curious to learn more, take a moment to explore our Northumberland village guide, where we delve deeper into the history of some of these iconic seaside towns.