Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland Coast

A Coastal Castle On An Anglo Saxon Royal Site, Rebuilt By The Normans And Restored In The Late 19th Century By Lord Armstrong, Still Privately Owned. It Overlooks A Mile Of Dune Backed Beach In The Northumberland Coast Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty; Seahouses Boats Run To The Farne Islands Puffin And Seal Colonies. · Bamburgh, England

Bamburgh Castle stands on a basalt crag above a mile of dune-backed sand on the Northumberland coast, one of the most photographed castles in England. The site was an Anglo-Saxon royal stronghold, rebuilt by the Normans and heavily restored in the late 19th century by Lord Armstrong, and it is still privately owned, run by a family trust rather than a heritage body. Inside are state rooms and an Armstrong museum, though the interior is smaller than the outside suggests, so many visitors enjoy the beach and the view more than the rooms. The wider coast adds the Farne Islands boat trips from Seahouses, Holy Island's tidal causeway and the small Grace Darling museum in Bamburgh village. It suits walkers, history lovers and families who like a big empty beach. Allow a full day, or two with the Farnes. Expect crowds in school holidays, a lot of wind off the North Sea, and ticket prices that add up when you include the castle, parking and a boat trip.

Castle on a basalt crag above a long sandy beach in Northumberland, with the Farne Islands boat trips from Seahouses nearby and Holy Island (Lindisfarne) a short drive north, Bamburgh, England, United Kingdom

The castle is a seasonal visit, usually open daily from around Easter to October and on fewer days in winter, with last entry well before closing. Exact hours change by year, so confirm on the day. The beach, dunes and village are open at all hours but the beach has no lifeguard outside summer. Farne Islands boats from Seahouses run roughly April to October and depend on sea state. Landings on Inner Farne and Staple Island are limited, with puffin nesting seasons and tide shaping departure times. Holy Island is reached only at low tide, so check the causeway safe crossing times before you set off.

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