Northumberland Coast Path

Extra Nights & Rest Days

The ancient village of Warkworth is a fascinating place to visit. The village is dominated by Warkworth Castle and perched on a rocky spur close to the mouth of the River Coquet. Just a short walk from the castle is the Warkworth Hermitage, a 14th century chapel carved out of the rock, while there are a series of craft shops, cafes and pubs along the village's main street.

Craster is another good choice for a rest day. It is a delightful little fishing village with a tiny harbour. Just south of the village is Howick Hall, built in 1782 and long associated with the Grey family, who have produced many famous figures, including Earl Grey the social reformer and tea enthusiast. The gardens are noted for their beauty.

Holy Island is a good choice for a rest day. In addition to the castle, priory and church, the Museum of Island Life that is housed in an 18th century fisherman's cottage, is well worth a visit. At St Aidan's Winery you can sample the famous Lindisfarne Mead.

There is plenty to see and do in Berwick-upon-Tweed if you wish to explore before the start of your walk. A stroll around the ramparts offers a succession of fine views out to sea, across the River Tweed and over the red roofs of the town's elegant Georgian mansions.

Buildings of interest include the 18th century Town Hall, with its 150ft high steeple where the curfew bell is still rung each evening and The Town Hall, that still retains its original jailhouse and now houses the Cell Block Museum.

The Holy Trinity Church is one of a handful of churches built during the Commonwealth. The absence of a tower reflects Cromwell's view that towers were irreligious. The 18th century barracks house the Borough Museum and Art Gallery. Also of interest is the Wine and Spirit Museum that incorporates a Victorian Chemist Shop and pottery.

You can add rest days at any of the overnight stops:

Travel Information

Useful information and travel links that will assist you in your plans to travel to the start of the holiday and back from the end of it are sent to you with your full tour pack. A summary is given below:

By Air - The most convenient major city and international airports are Newcastle and Edinburgh.

By Rail - The nearest station to the start of the trail (Cresswell) is at Widdrington (about 5 miles away). There is a rail station at the end of the trail (Berwick-upon-Tweed).

By Bus - Various bus services run to Warkworth and from Berwick-Upon-Tweed.

From London - Trains run from London Kings Cross station to Widdrington. From there a bus/taxi will be required to Cresswell.

Return To The Start - The easiest way to return to the start of the trail, is to catch a train from Berwick-Upon-Tweed to Widdrington and then catch a bus/taxi from here to Cresswell.