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Alnwick
Alnmouth
Bamburgh
Beadnell
Chillingham
Craster
Crasgside
Farne Islands
Ford & Etal
Holy Island
Newton on Sea
Ross Sands
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Alnwick
Recently voted the most desirable place to live by CountryLife magazine, this busy market town is the largest in the area. With some well known chain stores along with delightful local shops selling everything from pottery to old fashioned sweets.
The tourist information is situated just off the market square and there are most major banks and building societies in the town.
Alnwick castle made famous for its links with the Harry Potter films, is a must for any visitor. As is the recently opened Alnwick Gardens with its computerised water features being its main attraction.
Alnwick has a multitude of cafes and restaurants making it the ideal destination for a full family day out.
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Alnmouth
As its name suggests this picturesque village is situated at the point where the river Aln joins the sea. Parking is ideally situated at the beach edge (for a small fee) and a walk on the beach north towards Boulmer is recommended.
There are a small selection of cafes and pubs serving meals on the Main street as well as a Post Office, general stores and gift shops.
A golf course close to the beach is open to non-members for keen golfers.
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Bamburgh
This delightful village is 3 miles north of Seahouses. The village itself is full of character and has a selection of coffee shops, hotels and gift shops.
It's main attraction is Bamburgh Castle which is situated virtually in the sand dunes and overlooks the cricket green, tennis courts and children's play area.
From the beautiful golden beach there are excellent views of the Farne Islands and Holy Island.
In the village there is a Grace Darling museum which illustrates the story of Grace Darling and her father rescuing passengers of the 'Forfarshire' when it hit rocks off the Farnes in bad weather in 1838.
Just off the main street you will find the 'Wyndings'. Here there are popular viewing points where you can park, watch the waves crashing and 'Wynd down'!
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Beadnell
This popular bay 2 miles south of Seahouses is a haven for divers and wind surfers. It boasts a beautiful beach with sweeping views around the bay.
The harbour wall has recently been restored following its collapse a few years ago and you can also read about the history of the Lime Kilns that are situated adjacent to it.
You will also find a childrens playground and football pitch opposite the Women's institute in the village with views towards the bay.
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Chillingham
Approximately 12 miles west of Seahouses you can visit the famous wild white cattle. A guided visit to see these animals is possible but only at a safe distance as they are not looked after by man and only when one dies are there carcasses removed.
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Craster
This fishing village, famous for its kippers, is a must for any visitor to the area.
The ruined castle of Dunstanburgh can be found north along the coastal path and although there isn't a beach here children enjoy fishing with nets in the rock pools.
'Craster Kippers' can be bought from the Robsons Fresh Fish Shop close to the harbour and crab sandwiches from the 'Jolly Fisherman' along with the wonderful view is recommended.
Walking south from the pub leads you through a small housing estate to a lovely childrens playground. Walking past here you can join the coastal path towards Howick. In the distance you will be able to see an old bathing house which belonged to the gentry from Howick Hall in victorian times. It is now used as self catering accommodation.
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Cragside House & Wallington Hall
These are National Trust properties well worth a visit and can be reached by taking the road to Rothbury from Alnwick.
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Farne Islands
The islands are situated approximately 1½ miles from the coast between Seahouses and Bamburgh.
There are regular boat trips from Seahouses Harbour (landing is optional) to see the many birds and seals habitating on the 22 islands, along with the Longstone Lighthouse.
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Ford & Etal
These are two beautiful villages to visit 15 miles NW of Seahouses. The highlight here is the miniature railway and also the narrow gauge railway between the two places. A must for children.
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Holy Island
15 miles north of Bamburgh taking the A1 north and turning off at Beal will take you to Holy Island.
A causeway links the mainland to the island which can only be crossed at low tide. Safe crossing times can be found in Seahouses and on a noticeboard just before the causeway. This is a popular attraction as the tide covers the road very quickly and a wooden tower is provided for people cut off by the tide.
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Newton on Sea
A particular favourite of our family, Newton on Sea can be found 5 miles south of Seahouses.
A small hamlet of houses squared round a green sets the peaceful scene here. Drinks & Meals from the 'Ship Inn' are popular on fine days in a relaxing atmosphere close to the sea.
There are wonderful views towards Dunstanburgh Castle and the walk to Craster (approx 3 miles) is particularly inviting.
A beautiful beach littered with small sailing boats completes the idyllic picture.
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Ross Sands
This beautiful stretch of golden sand is visible looking over Budle Bay towards Holy Island.
Although it is not well signposted, it can be reached by taking the coastal road from Bamburgh northwards towards the A1. You do not join the A1 but instead keep going right to a T junction and turn right. After ½ mile you cannot go any further. Park your car here and a walk of about a mile will bring you straight on the beach.
One Bank Holiday Monday a few years ago we can recall counting 8 people in total on the beach. Whilst on the beach we read the newspaper and saw photographs of Bournemouth where you could not see the sand for the crowds!
Don't forget a pack lunch as there are no amenities here.
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