Vibrant village with a peaceful estuary and rich history often overlooked
- UK Hidden Gems
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever driven along the Northumberland coast towards Alnwick or Bamburgh, you might have unknowingly passed one of the region’s prettiest villages.
This hidden gem sits at the mouth of the River Aln, just four miles from Alnwick, and is a colourful seaside gem with a history as rich as its scenery.
Rows of pastel cottages overlook the estuary, fishing boats still rest on the water, and the wide beach stretches out into the North Sea. Yet despite its beauty, it’s often overlooked for its more famous neighbours.
Once a busy grain port trading with countries across the world, Alnmouth became a seaside resort in the 19th century when the railway arrived.
Today, it lies within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and attracts walkers, birdwatchers, history lovers and families looking for a peaceful coastal escape.
The beach is the heart of the village, a long stretch of golden sand where the River Aln meets the sea.
Divided into three bays, it’s perfect for picnics, dog walks or simply sitting with fish and chips while watching the waves roll in.
In winter, the beach has a wilder charm, with windswept dunes and crashing waves creating a dramatic scene.
Horse riding is popular along the shoreline, and keen walkers can follow the Northumberland Coast Path or St Oswald’s Way for longer hikes.
Hidden in the harbour is a unique local treasure – the smallest museum in Northumberland.
The Ferryman’s Hut is a tiny building once used by boatmen who rowed villagers across the estuary. The ferry stopped running in the 1960s, but the hut still holds photos and stories celebrating the people who worked there.
Outside, the pastel-painted cottages have earned Alnmouth the nickname “the Tobermory of Northumberland.”
Stroll along Northumberland Street, the main road through the village, and you’ll find cosy cafés, art galleries, pubs and gift shops.
The Old School Gallery is a highlight, offering modern art exhibitions alongside a welcoming café. For breathtaking views, climb up Church Hill and look out over the estuary.
Nature lovers will also adore the dunes around Alnmouth, which are a haven for wildlife. The estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to wading birds and wildfowl such as curlews and oystercatchers.
Several cycling routes pass through the area too, including the famous Coast and Castles trail.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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