Discover a Coastal Walk in Northumberland

Fancy a walk on the coast without the crowds? Northumberland’s shoreline is full of wide horizons, sea air, and secret paths where it’s just you, the waves, and the wind. These walks are simply a starting point, but I hope they shine a light on stretches of coast and seaside spots that might not yet be on your radar, and that you’ll soon count among Northumberland’s true hidden gems.

Discover a Coastal Walk in Northumberland (that isn’t Alnwick Castle)

Rather than heading straight for Alnwick and its famous castle, here’s a slower, quirkier circuit that blends grand design, proper cake, Border Reiver grit and a gentle stretch of the legs.

Seaton Delaval Hall

Start at Seaton Delaval Hall, a dramatic burst of English Baroque by the sea. Wander the grand rooms and formal lawns, then loop the wider grounds for big skies and salty air. The Delavals were famed for theatre and mischief, and the hall still carries that playful streak with upside-down rooms, keyholes to peep through, little stages, and formal gardens hiding ice houses and other surprises, all wrapped by a ha-ha wall. This is a stately home that loves to surprise.

Holywell Dene and Old Hartley

Five minutes down the road, Holywell Dene offers a gentle switch from stately to shady. Follow the burn through the dene to Old Hartley for sea views and a sweep of coastline. It’s an easy out-and-back or a short loop if you link waggonways and field paths. After rain, expect mud and bring boots. Here's the route: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/seaton-delaval-hall/holywell-dene-and-old-hartley-walk

Woodhouses Bastle House

Trade the coast for Coquetdale. Woodhouses Bastle is a stout, two-storey fortified farmhouse that kept families and livestock safe during the Reiver centuries. Stand by the thick walls and picture a life lived on alert. Keep to permissive paths, mind gates, and take your time to read the landscape. If you have longer, Black Middens is another classic bastle in the same valley.

The Running Fox at Powburn

Finish with a feed at The Running Fox in Powburn. Think generous pies, quiches, and cakes that defeat the best intentions to share. It’s friendly, filling, and exactly what you want after a day of fresh air. If you can, book ahead.

How to stitch the day together

Morning at Seaton Delaval Hall. Late morning stroll through Holywell Dene to Old Hartley. Drift inland after lunch for Woodhouses Bastle. Cake at Powburn to close. If you’d rather reverse it, the Fox also makes a strong breakfast.

Tips from the trail

• Seaton Delaval is National Trust. Non-members will need tickets. Check the times on the day.

• Running Fox portions are generous. Share a platter and save room for cake.

• Bastles are often on farmland. Respect signage and stick to permissive paths and rights of way.

• The Holywell Dene route can be muddy after rain. Boots recommended.

If this Good Walks at the Northumberland Coast has inspired your next adventure, join us for a guided walk with Curius Compass. From coastal wanders to Roman ruins, our walks uncover the stories, scenery, and secrets that make Northumberland so special. Explore our upcoming tours

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The Bit at the Bottom Where We Answer Stuff...

How long does it take to walk the Holywell Dene route? The circular route from Holywell Dene to Old Hartley takes about 1 to 1.5 hours at an easy pace, with time to enjoy the woodland and sea views.

Is Seaton Delaval Hall family-friendly? Yes! Children love the playful touches like secret doors, upside-down rooms, and open lawns for running about. There’s also a café and plenty of space for picnics.

Can you swim or paddle near Old Hartley? There are small coves near Old Hartley where you can paddle or dip your feet on calm days, but there are no lifeguards, so always check the tides and take care on slippery rocks.

Are dogs allowed at Seaton Delaval Hall and Holywell Dene? Yes! Dogs are welcome in the grounds of Seaton Delaval Hall (on leads) and on the Holywell Dene path. Both are great shaded options for summer walks.

The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea. — Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen)