A Great Dog Friendly Adventure in Northumberland

Famous for its windswept sandy beaches, imposing castles and rolling waves – here’s everything you need to know about dog friendly Northumberland.

Beaches

The beaches of Northumberland are legendary for a reason. We saw as many as possible, but everywhere we turned there were plenty of options. It’s a lovely challenge to know you’ll have to return time and again to find them all. That being said, here are some incredible options to start with. All allow dogs (although some restrictions apply)

Druridge Bay

Druridge Bay is a delightful option for a dog friendly Northumberland walk. It has the iconic high sand banks; long, soft sands and wild waves. Time your visit when the tide is out to enjoy the sands at their best. Free parking is available on the nearby road. After this, walk through shrub land and sand dunes. When you reach the peak, the beach will come in to view in all its glory.Be aware, there are no bins so all waste needs to be taken home with you.

Budle Bay

A stunning, tidal bay in the vicinity of Bamburgh Castle. Loved by windsurfers as well as workers. The area is a nature lovers paradise but has to be visited at low tide for a safe dog walk. Plenty of parking is available around the bay but it will get very busy on a sunny day.

Ross Sands

This is the most idyllic beach we’ve visited. It was completely unspoilt and had breathtaking views with Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands all visible form the shore. However, it is closely monitored and protected due to its ground nesting birds and seal colony. This means dogs can come on the beach (and ours loved it!) but they have to be kept on the lead. While we love Belka off lead experiences whenever possible. It was absolutely worth visiting this beach as we had it to ourselves and Belka was quite happily paddling in the waves alongside us even on lead. A must-see beach, but follow the reasonable restrictions re: wildlife. Another consideration is that parking is a fair distance away (1.5km) as you then walk through private farmland and sand dunes to get to the beach;. Again, we thought this was worth it but it might not be for everyone.

Bamburgh Beach

If you’ve seen any photo of a Northumberland beach, this will be it. Instantly recognisable from adverts and films, Bamburgh beach is a romantic, windswept sandy landscape perfect for all dog friendly Northumberland trips. We loved that off lead dogs were welcome and, although there were no bins or refreshments on the beach itself, they were easily accessible in the town and castle.

Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

This had an entirely different feel to the other beaches we visited. It felt more residential as the beach ran in a crescent inside the town. That being said, when the tide is out, the sand is in beautiful white and black ripples that gives the beach a surreal quality. In addition, the beach is watched over by some larger than life statues, a church and a lifeboat centre. This means sharing the beach with others and being a responsible owner is even more essential. Dogs are not permitted on part of the beach but there is plenty for them to enjoy. It’s well equipped with bins, cafes and dog level watering stops.

Seaton Sluice Bay

The harbour offers a glimpse into local life with quirky sculptures and a great waterfront pub (dog friendly, of course). The beach is a classic golden sands playground for dogs with rock pools revealed at low tide offering plenty of sniffs. Parking in convenient (up on the promenade) with many choices of paths down on to the beach. NO bins on the beach, but plenty by the road where you’ll need to park. .

Cafes, pubs and restaurants

We found Northumberland to be the most dog-friendly county we’ve visited in the UK. Spoilt for choice, here are some highlights:

Radcliffe’s Cafe Bar, Amble

We loved this bar as it served superb coffee from the local fantastic roasters Mocha Mondo, great quality brunch and a surprisingly good Belgian beer selection. The dogs loved it here as they were spoilt rotten with pets, treats and a water bowl. On a sunny day, there is relaxed outdoor seating.

The Crafty Lodge, Seaton Delavel

In an otherwise unassuming high street, this craft beer pub shines. The owners are extremely welcoming, and eager to advise you on their huge selection of drinks. Dogs are also warmly welcomed, although it isn’t the biggest venue so if your dog isn’t great in crowded spaces this might not be for you.

Cafe Needles Eye, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

This has the best views of our selection here as it is right on the beach with the curved sand of the bay laid out ahead of you. They serve super breakfasts and lunches (although no takeaways yet). There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, although it still seems to always have a queue due to its location. Dogs are welcomed with treats and water bowls. Although, probably best to visit after your walk as the sight of the beach might be too tempting for your dog to wait patiently if they’ve not had the chance to play yet!

The Middle Inn, Bamburgh

Bamburgh is full of great options from Michelin recommended seafood restaurants, to quaint ice cream parlours. So, our recommendation is a straightforward, classic English pub. But one that does this very, very well. The garden is huge meaning all dogs can be accommodated calmly and comfortably here (great if your dog prefers having some personal space). Plus, the food for humans is great!

Parks, forests and woodland

Although not as iconic as its beaches a dog friendly Northumberland trip should definitely incorporate some time in its wonderful parks and woodland. Especially handy on a hot day when you’re seeking shade!

Northumberlandia

A striking manmade sculpture park with an attached cafe and free car park. Not the wildest option on our list but great if your dog needs a more sedate day or prefers being on lead (they have to be kept on lead here). The built up, spirals and grass mounds form the shape of a woman when viewed from above. Wandering the contours of the park gives the impression you’re wandering through Teletubby land. The park is immaculately presented and offers great views of the surrounding area (including a glimpse of the Angel of the North). There are shaded paths through woodland and plenty of bins making this a good option for a low effort, comfortable walk with your dog.

Humford Woods & Stepping Stones

You’ll find plenty of families with and without dogs enjoying the woods here. There is a large, free car park, a play area and bins at the entrance. The woods offer various options for paths, but simply follow the river for a lovely, shaded, vibrant walk. The highlight is the set of stepping stones near the entrance. Belka loved leaping between them and watching the running water. Other dogs may need a bit of coaxing!

Overall, Northumberland proved to be one of the most dog friendly areas we’ve visited in the UK and we can’t wait to return to discover more highlights!