The Best Walks in Bamburgh

Walks in Bamburgh

Whether you’re in the mood for a gentle stroll or a more intensive hike, Bamburgh is the ideal spot for walking. No matter what time of year you visit Bamburgh, we highly recommend getting out and about to make the most of the incredible surroundings. 

As you wander, you can enjoy coastal vistas, iconic castle views, and historic landmarks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seal or two!

There are plenty of walks that lead you directly from Bamburgh to other local beauty spots. Read on for walking trail recommendations, then put on your comfiest walking shoes and get moving.

Can you walk from Bamburgh to Seahouses?

You certainly can walk from Bamburgh to Seahouses — and back again. This route is just over three miles long (one way) and lets you explore the beautiful Northumberland coastline. 

If you’re staying in Bamburgh, you can wander down to the beach. There’s also parking nearby if your accommodation is elsewhere in Northumberland. 

Once you’re on Bamburgh beach, you can appreciate the stunning views out to sea, overlooked by the incredible castle ruins. The stroll to Seahouses is a straight path along the sandy beaches, so it’s easy to follow. It’s the perfect family adventure — plus, it’s dog-friendly.

Wellies are a wise idea and offer the chance to splash along the seafront — what could be better?

For the return journey, you can walk from Seahouses to Bamburgh or hop on a bus back. We also recommend fuelling up in one of the top cafes or restaurants in Seahouses before making your way home.

Our favourite walks in and near Bamburgh

While the Bamburgh to Seahouses walk is a lovely route, there are plenty of others to add to your list, too.

The best gentle walks in Bamburgh

Sometimes, a stroll is all you need to brush away the cobwebs and explore a new place. For gentle walks suitable for all ages and abilities, we suggest:

• Bamburgh to Budle Point: This 4-mile walk takes you through the local golf course, past some quaint cottages, and over to a viewpoint that lets you look across Budle Bay and Holy Island.

• Bamburgh Dunes: At just over 2 miles, this is a lovely quick walk to add into a morning or afternoon. It’s a circular trail that takes you around Bamburgh Castle, through the Bamburgh sand dunes and along the beach.

Bamburgh Castle and Kitling Hill circular

If you fancy a longer walk, the Bamburgh Castle and Kitling Hill circular route is a great choice. This 7.5-mile Bamburgh Castle walk is considered fairly easy and showcases the area’s mix of dramatic seascapes, historic landmarks, and rural countryside. 

• It's best to start at the Redbarn Links parking area, just by the castle.

• From there, you can take a scenic route along Bamburgh Beach, where you can see out to the North Sea.

• Continue through the sand dunes, where the path is a little more sheltered, before following the Greenhill track.

• This will take you to the junction where the Northumberland Coast Path and St Oswald’s Way meet.

• Carry on south through Fowberry, where you can enjoy peaceful countryside surroundings.

• You’ll cross several fields before reaching a bridleway that will take you back towards Bamburgh Castle.

• The final section of the walk offers stunning views of the castle, rising up above the sea. You then have the choice of heading directly along the road, back to Redbarn Links or returning along the beach or dunes.
   

Bamburgh to Craster walk

Part of the famous St Oswald’s Way route, this walk takes you on a 16-mile journey past Bamburgh Castle, through Seahouses, and into nearby Craster. It’s a little more challenging than the other Bamburgh walks on our list, so we recommend making sure you have the right walking shoes and checking the weather before setting out. 

• You can start your hike on Bamburgh beach, following the coastline along to Seahouses.

• From there, continue on to picturesque Beadnell and its glorious golden sands.

• You’ll then head through Low Newton-by-the-Sea, a quiet village, and on to Embleton Bay. Soak in the tranquil sea views or pop into the Ship Inn for a pit stop.

• The next part of the walk takes you towards the atmospheric ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, whose medieval fortress creates a striking silhouette.

• Another 1.3 miles will lead you to the traditional fishing village of Craster. All that’s left to do is watch the boats drift by, try the village’s famous smoked kippers, and enjoy a well-earned sit-down at a local pub after your long walk from Bamburgh.
   

Plan your walks in Bamburgh with Visit Northumberland

Bamburgh is perfectly situated on the Northumberland coast to provide some fantastic walking opportunities — all surrounded by incredible views. Whether you’re planning to stay in Bamburgh or you’re visiting another part of Northumberland, we have plenty of advice and guides to help you plan an unforgettable trip. 

Find out more about visiting Bamburgh and see more inspiration for short strolls and longer walks.