The Horseshoe Steps

You'll find these steps carved straight into the cliff face at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, a proper dramatic bit of engineering that's been there since Victorian times. They're named after their horseshoe shape, and once you spot them from the beach, you can't unsee it. The climb itself takes maybe ten minutes if you're not dawdling, and at the top you get views across the bay that justify the huffing and puffing. On a clear day it's genuinely worth the effort.

It's the kind of thing that appeals more to walkers and curious types than families with small kids - the steps are exposed and there's no handrail, so you need reasonable fitness and decent footwear. The beach below is accessible at low tide, which is when most people tackle the climb. Go when the weather's half-decent; the North Sea wind can be relentless up there.

Newbiggin itself is a working seaside town, not some polished resort, which is part of its charm. If you're staying at Golden Sands Holiday Park just down the coast, these steps make an easy morning adventure. Even Cresswell Towers, though it's got mixed reviews, puts you within striking distance. There's no admission charge as far as anyone can tell - they're just there on the public beach. Allow an hour if you're taking photos and having a breather at the top. In summer the place can get busy, so an off-season visit might feel more special.