Between Newcastle Upon Tyne And Bamburgh Is A Charming Coastal Town With Fresh Seafood, Wildlife, And Beaches

Mention beaches, and palm trees swaying over glistening white sands is what probably comes to mind. England's rugged coastline is almost the polar opposite of this dreamy image, and yet it's just as picturesque. From windswept chalk cliffs to shingle shorelines backed by sleepy villages, the English coast is dotted with places to explore. The seaside town of Amble is one such destination, and it's almost as far north of England as you could possibly go before crossing into Scotland. From quiet beach strolls to tasty seafood, Amble offers a relaxing getaway in what is known as England's "friendliest" port according to Visit Northumberland.

Amble is tucked along an estuary where the River Coquet flows into the North Sea, so there are waterfront panoramas all around town. Boats crowd the marina and a lengthy wooden boardwalk stretches across the water to a red and white striped lighthouse, Amble Pier Light.

When the weather is pleasant, soft sand beckons sunbathers, while history fiends can take a short bus ride to explore the 15th-century ruins of Warkworth Castle. After a day's adventure, feast on fresh seafood or enjoy a cup of tea at one of Amble's many seaside cafés. Newcastle Upon Tyne is less than an hour's drive south or about 90 minutes by bus from Amble, while Bamburgh is around 25 miles north. Meanwhile, London is approximately four hours away by train and bus.

Amble has two beaches. Little Shore, a half-moon arc of sand overlooking a tranquil lagoon, is a short walk from the harbor. Though the water is no doubt frigid, there is plenty of space to throw down a towel and sunbathe. Meadows surround the shore, and a row of wooden shacks painted in pastel tones is a fun backdrop for photos. Benches and picnic tables dotted all around offer scenic spots in which to enjoy a snack amid the backdrop of the wooden jetty across the water.

To enjoy the scenery without getting your shoes sandy, walk along the quayside instead. Wildlife watchers should keep an eye out for critters. Aside from seagulls cawing overhead, gray seals have been known to splash around the waterfront. Egrets and herons can also be seen roaming the vast mudflats exposed by the ebbing tide, joined by flocks of ducks and razorbills. Keen birdwatchers can book a tour with Dave Gray's Puffin Cruises from Amble Harbor to Coquet Island – a stone's throw from the coastline — to hear nesting puffins squawk and see pods of seals lounging on the shore in summer.

A visitor on Google Maps called Links Beach on the town's south coast a "beautiful place for peace and tranquillity." The sand is scattered with boulders, while dunes topped with tufts of grass frame the edge of the beach. The silhouette of Croquet Island's white lighthouse rises up from across the water, creating a pretty backdrop for strolls. 

Trying seafood in a seaside town is a must. The Fish Shack, a clapboard cabin with picnic tables out front, is highly-rated and right by the quay. The aroma of freshly caught fish will no doubt lure you inside. "Slightly pricey, but soooo worth that little extra," says a customer on Google Maps. The interior is decorated with sprigs of greenery, which creates a snug atmosphere, and diners can enjoy harbor views. The haddock chowder and seafood platter are popular, while the menu also includes tiger prawns, mussels in cream sauce, and beer-battered haddock with mushy peas.

The Old Customs House Tearooms, which is also highly-rated, is right next door. Tucked within a honey-colored stone cottage, its squishy armchairs and wooden tables set a cozy backdrop for sipping warm drinks and noshing on snacks. "Delicious homemade cakes and quiche every time," says a customer on Google Maps. Other visitors have enjoyed the cheese toast, chicken panini and carrot cake.

Grab more seafood at The Harbour Inn, which has a classic English pub atmosphere. A chalkboard advertises the catch of the day, while the menu highlights seafood curry, smoked salmon, and sirloin with king prawns. If you want to extend your stay, book a room at The Harbour Inn, Radcliffes Lodge, or The Amble Inn. For more excitement in the area, Alnmouth, a quaint village with a beach and tasty cafés and pubs, is about a 15-minute drive north. You can also stop by Morpeth, a small market town with riverside walks, stylish shops, and vibrant bars 30 minutes' drive south. Seaham, an hour's drive away, is another great spot to explore as it's a charming coastal town with beaches, local eateries, and scenic cliffs.