Warkworth Beach

The beach at Warkworth stretches out in a long, sandy arc backed by dunes and that distinctive Northumberland grey stone. It's the sort of place where you can walk for miles without feeling like you're on a tourist trail - plenty of space, proper fresh air, and the kind of light that makes photography addicts fidget with their cameras all afternoon.

The real draw here is the castle ruins perched on the headland. Warkworth Castle dominates the skyline, and you can walk right up to it along the beach or via the coastal path. The fortress dates back to the 12th century, which means there's actual history embedded in the stonework - not just paint and interpretation boards. If you're staying at Coast and Castles Camping or Woodland Chase Glamping nearby, this is genuinely worth the short drive.

The beach itself works well for families who want space to move around without navigating ice cream queues. The sand is firm, the water's cold (it's the North Sea), and dogs are welcome. You can easily spend two or three hours here - longer if you combine it with exploring the castle ruins and the village of Warkworth itself, just inland from Alnwick.

Best visited outside peak summer when the car park doesn't feel rammed, and afternoon light gives the castle walls a proper golden hour glow. Bring a windbreaker; the coast here doesn't mess about with sheltered bays.