Northumberland boasts some of Britain’s most stunning beaches, yet they frequently go unnoticed compared to neighbouring coastal destinations.

Embleton Bay is undoubtedly one such location, nestled discreetly within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing a tranquil retreat throughout the year. With far fewer tourists, it delivers a sense of serenity for visitors seeking leisurely strolls, gentle swimming and, naturally, views of the magnificent castle from the shoreline below.

The extensive expanse of golden sand remains largely untouched, bordered by picturesque dunes with minimal evidence of human presence. Indeed, its popularity among guests saw it crowned the UK’s finest beach in 2017, with visitors consistently describing it as a “hidden gem”.

An abundance of wildlife inhabits the bay and its surroundings, including species like bloody cranesbill and eyebright, alongside wild flora such as thyme and vetch. Additionally, the clifftops overlooking the bay serve as nesting site for numerous seabird species, making it an excellent location for lovers of birdwatching.

Embleton Bay sits beneath the imposing Dunstanburgh Castle, which stands in dramatic ruins with origins tracing back to 1313. The remains are accessible on foot from Craster, a nearby village, via a peaceful 1.3-mile gentle ramble.

Visitors can explore the site as it’s safeguarded and managed by the National Trust, working alongside English Heritage, who assist in preserving its historical significance.

Members of the public can explore the entire ruins, from the imposing walls to the dramatic sea views where the landscape plunges away on the northern edge.

For those keen to venture beyond the bay itself, the far northern tip of the beach leads into the delightful village of Low Newton, which features a handful of pubs, shops and its own stretch of sand.

Wonderfully remote and secluded from modern life, it provides an ideal resting point during your ramble, steeped in its own rich heritage, including a beloved pub that has endured since the 18th century.

One beach visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “What a little beauty this turned out to be. Yes, parking is difficult, so if you have mobility issues, it’s not the easiest to get to, but the view, the clear sea and golden sand made this place a must-visit and a multiple-area visit. We went back of an evening and watched some locals surfing, enjoying life and nature’s gifts.”

Another added: “Probably one of the most beautiful bays anywhere in the world. A visit to Northumberland is not complete without a walk here. From Dunstan Stead’s walk towards Dunstanburgh Castle, turn back to face the bay and follow the path down onto the beach, where you get a view of the little beach houses in the dunes.”

Ideal for family outings, the bay also welcomes dogs, allowing your four-legged companions to partake in your Northumberland adventures. Visitors often engage in a variety of activities that the expansive beach accommodates, such as kitesurfing, rock pooling and windsurfing.