Embleton Bay
the jewel in the crown of the Northumberland Coast
West End, Craster, Northumberland, NE66 3TS
Visit WebsiteThere are some places that you just can’t help returning to time and time again. For us, one of these places is the stretch of beach between Craster and Low Newton in Northumberland. Embleton Bay is the jewel in the crown of the Northumberland Coast, a pristine beach with golden sand, watched over by the romantic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.
- By The Beach
- Children Welcome
- Good Food
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
Embleton Bay is one of our favourite places in the world, and is easily reached from either Low Newton or Craster. We’d recommend parking in the quarry car park near Craster and walking along the Northumberland Coast Path to reach the beach – walk as far as you want along the beach before retracing your steps, or walk all the way to the end of the sand at Low Newton and return along the dunes.
Starting from Craster will take you right past the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The castle was built in the early 14th century and subject to fierce fighting during the Wars of the Roses, falling into disrepair not long after and maintaining its quiet vigil over the coast ever since. It’s worth detouring here to explore the site – dogs on leads are more than welcome too (entrance fees apply).
The real highlight of the day for dogs is the beach, which stretches in an unbroken expanse of sand for nearly three miles. Over recent years, Embleton Bay has become increasingly popular with families and dog walkers, being easily accessible, beautiful and dog friendly year round, but you can beat the crowds by visiting in the off-season or by arriving early. The east coast has some of the best sunrises in the country and Embleton Bay is no exception.
Whenever you choose to visit, make sure to sample some Craster kippers, which are a local delicacy. Pick some up fresh to take home with you from Craster, or stop off at The Jolly Fisherman where they are a staple of the menu. Dogs are more than welcome in the bar area, but we’d recommend booking in advance to make sure you can bag a table – the pub is extremely popular with both local and visitors, not to mention weary hikers making their way along the Northumberland Coast Path and St. Oswald’s Way (both of which pass through the beer garden).
For The Dogs
Bring leads, towels, water and poop bags.
Opening Hours
Daylight is recommended. Check the website before visiting Dunstanburgh Castle.
Parking
Park at Craster Quarry car park, West End, Craster, Northumberland, NE66 3TS.
The Area
Another of our favourite stops along the castle coast is the charming village of Bamburgh, best known for the imposing castle which towers over the beach, less well known as the capital of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria. Park in the long stay car park near the castle and explore the castle grounds (the outdoor areas dog friendly, entrance fees apply) or walk through the dunes to reach the beach. The beach at Bamburgh is popular year round, but head north along the coast path to reach the quiet sands of Budle Bay.
