Bamburgh campsites

The village of Bamburgh lies on the Northumberland Coast, facing the North Sea. With golden beaches, centuries of history, diverse wildlife, and traditional village charm, Bamburgh is the perfect choice for your next coastal adventure.

Known as one of the most historic places in Northumberland, Bamburgh is a must-visit for history buffs. Perched above the coastline stands the iconic Bamburgh Castle. Take a stroll through the grand halls and battlements and step back in time through over 1,400 years of history. Enjoy interactive exhibits, ancient artefacts and space for young historians to explore. There are also stunning panoramic views of Bamburgh Beach and the surrounding coast, so make sure you pack a picnic! Just a short walk away is Bamburgh Lighthouse, on the northeastern tip of the village. Offering further scenic views, it is the most northerly land-based lighthouse in England and is a symbol of Bamburgh’s maritime heritage.

Take a stroll through the village to see the old stone cottages, historic inns and the traditional green, known as the heart of Bamburgh. Spot the plaques dotted around that help explain the historical significance of parts of the village, too. Bamburgh is also home to St Aidan’s Church, dating back to 635 AD. Discover stained glass windows, historic gravestones and remnants of the original Anglo-Saxon church at this peaceful site. For a dive into some slightly more recent history, don’t miss a visit to the Grace Darling Museum, exploring the story of Grace Darling, the Victorian heroine who rescued shipwrecked sailors in 1838. Here, her story is brought to life through interactive exhibits and artefacts, including her famous rowing boat. Grace’s memorial is here, too and is located by the church. 

At the base of the castle lies the golden sands of Bamburgh Beach, a top spot for dogs as they are welcome all year. The wide shoreline here is ideal for long walks or sandcastle building and offers the stunning backdrop of the castle behind. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most photographed coastal locations in the UK! The gentle waves, wildlife and sand dunes make it a top pick for families. You’ll be spoilt for choice with other beaches, too. Beadnell Bay is great for watersports, including coasteering and kiteboarding and is a ten minute drive, or take a trip to Budle Bay, a tidal bay with dunes and salt marshes, perfect for bird watching and walking, just five minutes away. Within a five minute drive is Seahouses Beach, also known as St Aidan’s Beach, a small sandy beach with rock pools, a spot known for its surfing, paddleboarding and diving opportunities.

Seahouses also offers lots of family fun, with arcades and crazy golf, as well as a variety of boat trips from the harbour. These include wildlife tours to see seals, seabirds and puffins, sunset cruises and fishing trips, as well as exploring the nearby Farne Islands. Some boat trips land at Inner Farne, allowing visitors to set foot on one of the UK’s most important wildlife islands and discover historic landmarks such as St Cuthbert’s Chapel and the Inner Farne Lighthouse.     

For more outdoor adventures, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a must-do for keen golfers, known as one of the most scenic golf courses in England. The Northumberland Coast is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers some of the best coastal walks in the country. Take a three mile walk or cycle from Bamburgh to Seahouses along the coast path and enjoy sea views, sandy beaches and a relaxed pace. The Bamburgh Beach and dunes circular walk takes you through the sand dunes behind the beach and through the quieter pathways of the village with views of the castle. Or, try the longer Bamburgh to Budle Bay walk, heading north and through the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve for birdwatching. Choose to walk through the sand dunes or follow the circular route via the golf course. For more cycling, the NCN Route 1 passes close by, where you can ride along the coast, visiting the seaside villages en route.

For those wanting to travel slightly further afield, a visit to Holy Island (Lindisfarne) is a top choice. Just a 20 minute drive from Bamburgh takes you to this unique tidal island where you can discover local history, wildlife and traditional island life, including independent shops, cafes and galleries. Just make sure you time your crossing carefully, as it can only be reached at low tide! Harry Potter fans will delight in a visit to Alnwick Castle, 25 minutes from Bamburgh. Enjoy interactive experiences, medieval-themed activities and even archery lessons and broomstick training at the filming location for Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, as well as many others.   

Bamburgh is known for its traditional cosy cafes and tearooms serving local treats like Singin’ Hinnies (griddled scones), Northumberland gingerbread, fruit scones and tray bakes, all washed down with a cup of tea. Seafood is also a top choice here, with fish and chips, crab sandwiches, lobster and shellfish all freshly caught delicacies. Northumberland is also famous for its delicious cheese, with Northumberland Nettle Cheese, Admiral Collingwood Cheese and Coquetdale Cheese being local favourites, and don’t miss a taste of lamb and venison or traditional game pies from the inner farmlands. Of course, no seaside trip would be complete without an ice cream, with artisan parlours, fresh vanilla ice cream and the classic whippy cones. For those after a tipple, there are plenty of independent breweries that supply their ales and craft beers to local pubs, such as Alnwick Brewery and Hadrian Border Brewery.

With its friendly village, stunning scenery and rich heritage, Bamburgh offers the perfect coastal escape that will draw you back to this corner of Northumberland time and time again.