The UK’s ‘best hidden beach’ is up north – and it’s not Bamburgh

It’s known for incredible sunsets (Picture: Getty Images)

As an island nation, the UK is spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches.

With a debated coastline spanning anywhere between 7,723 and 12,251 miles, we’re blessed with long stretches of rocky coves and sandy shores.

But often, the focus is placed on southern spots, in Cornwall and Devon, Brighton and Kent.

Rightly so. These beaches should be celebrated. However, it sometimes means that places further up the map don’t get as much airtime.

That means there are plenty of ‘hidden gems’ still waiting to be discovered.

And one of these northern locations has just been named the ‘best hidden beach’ in the UK.

Warkworth, described as a ‘perfect two-mile stretch of the purest sand,’ can be found in Northumberland.

Experts at outdoor company Millets analysed beaches up and down the country, studying key factors such as average temperatures, sunshine hours, and water quality.

Beating more famous northern spots like Bamburgh and Whitby, Warkworth scored an impressive 9.14 out of 10.

So, if you’re looking for a new favourite beach to enjoy this summer, here’s everything you need to know about this northeastern winner.

Serene scenery

Warkworth beach sits between the historic village of Warkworth and the coastal village of Alnmouth (which is also worth a day trip, and the place to go for sensational sunsets, we are told).

This northern beach is officially the UK’s best hidden gem (Picture: Fi Jack)

Backed by grassy sand dunes and a pristine golf course, an estuary also runs behind from the bustling town of Amble, where you’ll find a harbour filled with fish shacks, seafood restaurants, and pastel-painted beach huts.

On a clear day, you can look out toward Coquet Island, an RSPB nature reserve that hosts over 40,000 breeding seabirds.

This includes the UK’s only regular nesting colony of rare Roseate Terns.

Puffins and grey seals can also be spotted here.

But back to the beach. In summer, the wide expanse of golden sands and clear waters prove that you don’t need to head to the Med for a relaxing beach experience.

This is also helped by the fact that Warkworth is uncommercialised.

There are no shops, ice cream vans, arcades or pier on the beach. Rather, the wild, natural landscape makes it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and quiet strolls.

Locals recommend setting up at the south end of the beach by some old tree trunks, where you should enjoy a bottle or two of Alnwick Gold from the local brewery 20 minutes up the road.

You can find Amble North Pier and Lighthouse a 25-minute walk away along a cinder track though.

Here, you can either bring your own fishing tackle or join a summer mackerel trip.

Surf and hike

Speaking of walking, there’s a popular four-mile circular trail that combines the beach, the River Coquet estuary, and Warkworth Castle (which we’ll get to in a sec).

It’s just you and your thoughts on Warkworth beach (Picture: Fi Jack)

Combining sandy beach, tracks and lanes, it starts at the golf club, takes you through the dunes and then on to the beach.

For those with furry friends in tow, Warkworth beach is dog-friendly with no seasonal restrictions.

Keen to get more cardio in? Just six minutes down the beach on Amble Links, water sports like surfing, kitesurfing and kayaking are popular.

Northumberland-based company, Northside Surf, also offers stand-up paddleboarding sessions on Warkworth River and along the coast.

Warkworth Castle

Warkworth Castle is a short walk from the beach (Picture: Getty Images)

You can’t visit Warkworth beach or village without heading to its medieval castle.

As mentioned, you can easily walk to the fortress from the beach.

English Heritage describes it as ‘one of the most formidable castles in northern England,’ which was once home to the powerful Percy family, a historic English noble house.

You can explore the 15th-century ruins for £11.90, where you’ll find everything from ancient wine cellars to the great hall and chapel.

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