Bamburgh beach, Northumberland

Things to do in Bamburgh

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With its majestic castle and stunning beaches, Bamburgh might be a small village, but it has lots to offer. Situated in the heart of Northumberland, Bamburgh is a popular destination throughout the year. If you’re looking for somewhere that offers history, culture, and nature in equal measure, Bamburgh’s waiting for you!

Here are some interesting things to do in Bamburgh on a day out. It’s only around half an hour’s drive from our nearby Haggerston Castle and Berwick holiday parks!

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh: a castle and beach to remember

Bamburgh Castle has 3000 years of history and was home to the Anglo-Saxon kings of Northumbria. It’s considered one of England's finest coastal fortresses! 

Once you’ve bought your ticket, it lets you into the castle and its grounds — dogs and kids under four years old get in for free. 

Even from the outside, you can see how Bamburgh Castle is one of the largest in the country. As you make your way inside, you can see just how grand the interior is with its wood panelling, large gold framed portraits, and sweeping rooms that take you deeper into history.

Admire the exhibit displays including coats of armour, statues, and artefacts. You’ll get to visit the hall, the armoury, and the oldest part of the castle that remains — its keep. 

On a sunny day, sit outside in the grass and overlook the rolling hills and coastline as you eat a picnic at one of the benches dotted around the area.

Castle Windmill

Castle Windmill

After you've looked around the castle and its grounds, head to the north end - you’ll find an old windmill built in the 18th century.

This fascinating windmill was used to grind corn to feed the poor people of Bamburgh. As you stand atop the hill here, you can take in the scenery of the surrounding area. It’s well worth a visit for photo opportunities!

Grace Darling Museum

Grace Darling Museum

We can’t talk about Bamburgh without mentioning one of the great Victorian heroines, Grace Darling. In 1838, she risked her life rescuing nine survivors from a shipwreck. 

That's why the Grace Darling Museum, run by the RNLI, is well worth a visit while you're here in Bamburgh. Inside, you’ll learn about Grace's upbringing and what life was like running a lighthouse. Learn more about the rescue that she’s famous for and why she’s known as a national heroine. You can view her personal items, letters, photos and artefacts from the rescue.

Entry is free and you'll find the entrance along Radcliffe Road in Bamburgh, not far from the seafront. There's parking close by in Bamburgh Castle.

Church of Saint Aidan

The church you see today was built at the end of the 12th century and stands in the spot of the old original wooden place of worship. The grounds are beautiful and a peaceful spot to walk around in any weather, with access to Grace Darling’s memorial. 

You can enter the church any day in the late morning to afternoon to view the history within its walls and marvel at the ornate stained-glass windows.

Discover breaks in Northumberland

Haggerston Castle self catering holidays

Haggerston Castle, Northumberland

4 nights from £49
Berwick self catering holidays

Berwick, Northumberland

4 nights from £59

Go for a walk

Go for a walk

Walk The Wynding 

Distance: 1.5 miles each 

Difficulty: easy to moderate, with some uneven ground and hills 

If you’re looking for active things to do near Bamburgh, try walking a trail! 

There are two routes you can follow from The Wynding; they’re each around 1.5 miles long and take you on slightly different journeys through the Bamburgh countryside. Make sure to wear comfy walking shoes. 

Public footpaths start from The Wynding at the Boathouse - you’ll see the turn-off for it as you come down this golf course road. Along either route, you’ll experience long, wild long grasses, views of the coast and the countryside that makes this area of Northumberland one of the prettiest. Both routes come out at the castle grounds.

Circular walk from Bamburgh to Budle 

Distance: 5 miles 

Terrain difficulty: easy to moderate, with some uneven ground and hills 

This time, the route starts at Bamburgh Castle. It's circular, so you’ll travel up to Budle Bay and end up back where you started. 

Start off at the castle car park and follow the coastal road to Bamburgh Moor. Here, you’ll find amazing geology, sand dunes, and rocky areas to explore. Look out to sea and spot Lindisfarne, or Holy Island! Once you pass Kiln Point, you can make your way to Budle. The footpaths will guide you back to the B road, which leads directly back to the castle.

Bamburgh Ossuary

Beneath the church of St Aidan lies a peaceful crypt for the people that lived in Anglo-Saxon Northumbria. Many remains have been found underneath the Dunes and the land of Bamburgh over the years, and this is their resting place. 

Descending the dark steps into the ossuary is a very unique experience. Discover more about the origin of these bones and learn more about how people may have lived in ancient Bamburgh. The rows of boxes you’ll see are where the human bones are stored.

Learn to surf with NE Surf

Learn to surf with NE Surf

For something a little bit different that celebrates the coastal town of Bamburgh, why not learn to surf? NE Surf offers surfing lessons with qualified coaches that are passionate about surfing the waves. 

With a beginner lesson, you can learn how to surf correctly in a small group and receive personalised instructions. Get started and experience the gorgeous scenery and a vibrant surfing community. You’ll be cresting the waves in no time!

Blacketts Gift Shop

Just opposite the church of St Aidan, you can find this gift shop located in the walled garden. 

You’ll find a mix of well-known brands and eclectic items made by local crafters, including candles, wooden signs, and toys. Perfect if you're looking for a gift for your favourite people back home — or as a treat for yourself! All items you see in the shop are inspired by Bamburgh’s history and culture.

Start planning your Great British break

Important information

Brand new holiday homes from £34,995

Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom ABI New Horizon holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.   

Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.   

As at 19 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Church Farm, Cala Gran, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seashore, Seaview and Thornwick Bay. 

Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.  

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven).  Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office:  One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.  

New holiday homes from £33,995

Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories. 

From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £33,995 and will remain at this price until all available stock is sold. 

The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.    

As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at Berwick, Burnham-on-Sea, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hafan y Mor, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Seton Sands and Weymouth Bay. 

Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.   

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven).  Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.   

Pre-owned holiday homes from £14,995 Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.  

Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.  

As at 12 July 2024, price is available at Blue Dolphin, Combe Haven, Caister, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Golden Sands, Greenacres, Haggerston Castle, Skegness, The Orchards, Quay West and Wild Duck only until the stock has been sold. Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them. 

New holiday homes from £29,995 – reduced from £33,995 

Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories. 

From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £29,995 until 31 August 2024 at which point it will revert to £33,995. At Far Grange the holiday home price point is reduced from £33,995 and will revert to this price on 31 August 2024. 

The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.    

As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at – Blue Dolphin, Caister-on-Sea, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Greenacres, Haggerston Castle, The Orchards, Quay West, and Wild Duck 

Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.   

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven).  Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.   

Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995

Holiday home price is based on a Bronze Grade pre-owned holiday home 6 years or older and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.   

Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale.  Subject to status and availability.   

As at 12 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Cala Gran, Church Farm, Cardigan View, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Orchards, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Riviere Sands, Seashore, Seaview, Skegness and Thornwick Bay.   

Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.  

Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven).  Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office:  One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL.  We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.  

Free 2024 site fees when you buy a Haven holiday home

Offer is applicable to new customer purchases made through Haven from 19 April 2024, completing by 31 December 2024.

Offer excludes part-exchanges or private sales. Available on new & pre-owned holiday homes at the following selected parks only: Kent Coast, Burnham-on-Sea, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Hopton, Orchards, Skegness and Wild Duck.

A credit equivalent to the value of your site fees due during the 2024 season will be applied to your account balance on completion of your purchase for use against your running costs e.g. utilities, after-sale add-ons e.g storage boxes or site fees. It cannot be applied to your purchase or refunded in cash.

Subject to availability and status. Deposit required. Access to your holiday home is subject to park opening times.

Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. Full site fees will be payable for subsequent years.

Images are shown for representational purposes.

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.

Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2031

Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.

‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview.  The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.

“Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion.  It is available across 40% of eligible Parks and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade for 15 weeks.

An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.

Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.

Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.

Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.

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