Bamburgh

Three miles of golden sand stretch beneath one of England's most dramatic castles, making this Northumberland village feel like something from a medieval fantasy. Bamburgh Castle dominates the skyline - a proper fortress perched on volcanic rock that's been fortified for over 1,500 years.

The beach is the real draw here. Ross Back Sands runs for miles, offering vast expanses of sand at low tide where you can walk for hours without seeing another soul. When the wind picks up, it becomes a playground for kitesurfers and windsurfers. The dunes behind provide shelter for picnics when the coastal breeze gets fierce.

Wildlife enthusiasts should head to Budle Bay Birdwatching Point, especially during winter months when thousands of migrating birds stop over. The mudflats here teem with curlews, oystercatchers and the occasional grey seal hauled out on the sandbanks. It's a short walk from the village centre but feels wonderfully remote.

Getting here requires a bit of planning. The nearest train station is Berwick-upon-Tweed, about 20 miles north, then it's a bus journey or car rental. Most visitors drive up the A1 from Newcastle, which takes just over an hour.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. Budle Bay Campsite and South Meadows Caravan Park both put you within walking distance of the beach, while Glororum Holiday Park offers easy access to the Waren Mill Nature Trail - ideal for morning walks before the castle crowds arrive. The village itself has limited accommodation, so the holiday parks provide a practical base for exploring this stunning stretch of Northumberland coast without the premium prices of staying in the castle's shadow.