Northumberland Coast

Off shore between the ancient villages of Bamburgh and Seahouses lies the Farne Islands. In the care of The National Trust, these islands are a popular destination for wildlife lovers, with a great variety of seabirds and large colonies of grey seals. Boat trips to the islands can be taken all year round but are particularly rewarding during May, June and July when tens of thousands of breeding sea birds can be seen.

Also of note is Holy Island (or using its Celtic name Lindisfarne), famous for being a seat of Christian learning in the 7th century. Cut off twice a day and only accessible at low tide, Holy Island is linked to the mainland by a three mile causeway. The island has a thriving local community, busy harbour, shops and inns and there’s plenty to see and do, with a priory, Heritage Centre, local winery, and Tudor castle; it’s also a great for bird watching.

If history is your thing you won’t be disappointed. Bearing testament to a very turbulent past this coastline has a number of spectacular historic castles, perched on cliff top locations overlooking the North Sea, including Bamburgh Castle, often described as the finest castle in England.