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Best places to eat in Northumberland  holiday cottages

Best places to eat in Northumberland

Leah Amos 02 March 2021

Planning a trip to Northumberland and looking for the best places to eat? This county isn’t just about castles, coastlines, and rolling hills, it’s also a hub for amazing food. From historic waterfront pubs to quirky tearooms with unforgettable cakes, Northumberland has it all. Craving fresh seafood, hearty traditional dishes, or something more refined? You’ll find it all here.

Northumberland’s food scene combines laid-back charm with bold, creative menus. With farm-fresh ingredients and dishes inspired by the wild North Sea, there’s something for every taste.

This guide features Northumberland’s best places to eat, chosen by over 12,000 holidaymakers. Whether you're travelling as a couple, with family, or solo, you’ll find plenty of tempting dining options here.


The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

The Jolly Fisherman pub with outdoor seating plus fish and chip van.

You’ll find The Jolly Fisherman perched with a sweeping view over the dramatic coastline of Craster village. This friendly pub is a proud local favourite for good reason. Watch waves crash against the shore as you tuck into handpicked seafood. The crab soup, legendary among regulars, is as comforting as a Northumberland welcome. Their crab sandwiches and Lindisfarne oysters are always a hit too, especially when enjoyed on the sunny outdoor terrace. For food with a view, this is your top spot.

Good to know

  • Address: The Jolly Fisherman, Haven Hill, Craster, Northumberland NE66 3TR
  • Menu highlight: The Jolly's famous crab sandwiches
  • You may also like: The Old Boat House in Amble, like The Jolly Fisherman, offers fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cosy, coastal setting.

The Ship Inn, Low Newton-by-the-Sea

Crowds enjoying food and drink at The Ship Inn beer garden.

Nestled in the village of Low Newton-by-the-Sea, The Ship Inn wraps you up in warmth the moment you step through the door. Flickering fires and mismatched chairs set the scene for classic food done right. There’s a keen commitment to locally sourced ingredients, and you’ll taste it in everything from the ploughman’s platter to their hearty pies. They brew their own beer on-site, making it a dream for ale-lovers. Don’t leave without sampling their seafood specials or catching the occasional folk music night.

Good to know

  • Address: The Ship Inn, Low Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick NE66 3EL
  • Menu highlight: Lobster (seasonal), you may even spot the local “Lobster Man” walking dinner‑fresh straight into the pub
  • You may also like: The Crown & Anchor on Holy Island offers a unique blend of seclusion and hospitality, much like The Ship Inn, emphasising local charm and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Landing, Beadnell

Outdoor dining under a stretch tent at The Landing.

The Landing in Beadnell is renowned for marrying sleek, modern style with a genuinely relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find bright, airy interiors and a menu that delights both adults and younger diners. Expect wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and elegant plates featuring local fish. Their “family-friendly” ethos doesn’t skimp on quality, making this a reliable pick if you’re travelling with kids or simply want a lively, welcoming setting.

Good to know

  • Address: The Landing, Benthall, Beadnell NE67 5FD
  • Menu highlight: The landing flat iron steak
  • You may also like: The Tipi at The Tempus, much like The Landing, offers a cosy and inviting space perfect for gathering, unwinding, and dining in a unique tipi setting.

Beadnell Towers, Beadnell

Beadnell Towers hotel with outdoor seating on a sunny day.

Step into the stylish surrounds of Beadnell Towers and you’re in for a treat. This elegant restaurant creates magic with ingredients straight from Northumbrian farmers and fishermen. The seasonal menu feels like a celebration of the county’s larder, boasting dishes crafted with real finesse. Expect pan-seared venison, freshly foraged greens, and show-stopping desserts. It’s a must-book for a special evening out.

Good to know

  • Address: Beadnell Towers, The Wynding, Beadnell, Northumberland NE67 5AY
  • Menu highlight: Beadnell Towers burger
  • You may also like: Sonnet in Alnwick is similar to Beadnell Towers, offering high-quality food paired with a charming mix of modern elegance and historic character.

The Lord Crewe, Bamburgh

View of Bamburgh village with castle and red phone box.

Rich in history and brimming with rustic charm, The Lord Crewe in Bamburgh is housed within an ancient coaching inn just steps from the iconic castle. The menu is as hearty as the setting, with steak and ale pie, roast lamb, and their famous seafood platters all winning rave reviews. This is comfort food, Northumberland-style, served in a space that’s steeped in character.

Good to know

  • Address: The Lord Crewe, Bamburgh, Northumberland NE69 7BL
  • Menu highlight: The Lord Crewe Posh “Fish & Chips”
  • You may also like: Both The Masons Arms in Warkworth and The Lord Crewe in Bamburgh offer traditional pub experiences just steps away from iconic castles, making them ideal spots to relax after exploring historic landmarks.

The Craster Arms, Beadnell

The Craster Arms pub in a village setting.

The Craster Arms greets you with a friendly buzz befitting its lively position close to the sands in Beadnell village. This spot is famed for its relaxed pub classics and abundant seafood options. Feast on mussels, grilled lobster, and hand-cut chips in the sunny beer garden or cosy up by the fire if the weather turns brisk. It’s as perfect for after a blustery beach walk as it is for a leisurely Sunday lunch.

Good to know

  • Address: 2-4 The Wynding, Beadnell, Northumberland NE67 5AX
  • Menu highlight: Beadnell Bay landed sea trout
  • You may also like: The Olde Ship Inn in Seahouses also offers hearty food after a leisurely beach walk.

The Running Fox, Felton

The Running Fox café with outdoor tables and customers.

Escape to the countryside for a slice of home-baked heaven at The Running Fox. With cute tearoom vibes and bursting display counters, this hideaway is one of the best cafes in Northumberland, famous for its towering cakes, crusty pastries, and fluffy scones. The sandwiches and pies are made from scratch and served with a generous dollop of local cheer. Set in the pretty village of Felton, it’s ideal for afternoon tea with a scenic amble along the river.

Good to know

  • Address: The Running Fox, 2-4 Riverside, Felton, Morpeth NE65 9EA (other locations available)
  • Menu highlight: Foxy afternoon tea
  • You may also like: The Origami Cafe in Alnwick is similar to The Running Fox as both offer a focus on handmade, artisanal creations.

The Potted Lobster, Bamburgh

Elegant coastal restaurant interior with nautical decor.

The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh puts the humble lobster centre stage, transforming it into something truly special. Whether you opt for indulgent lobster thermidor or keep it simple with lobster and chips, the emphasis here is on supreme freshness and big coastal flavours. The nautical decor and friendly staff create a relaxed yet refined experience worth lingering over.

Good to know

  • Address: The Potted Lobster, 3 Lucker Road, Bamburgh NE69 7BS
  • Menu highlight: Seafood platter for two
  • You may also like: Bertram's in Warkworth is owned by the same person behind The Potted Lobster.

The Fish Shack, Amble

Rustic Fish Shack restaurant on the seafront boardwalk.

Lively, down-to-earth, and right next to the sea in Amble, The Fish Shack delivers what it promises – outrageously fresh fish in a fun, casual setting. Think whopping fish and chips, crisp calamari, and perfectly battered prawns. Rustic seating and a buzz of activity make it a hit with families and friends keen to sample Amble’s daily catch.

Good to know

  • Address: The Fish Shack, 29 Harbour Road, Amble, Morpeth NE65 0AP
  • Menu highlight: Seafood boil with clams, tiger prawns, blue shell mussels, sweet corn & cajun chorizo broth
  • You may also like: If you love The Fish Shack in Amble, you'll enjoy Riley's Fish Shack, with its fresh, sustainable seafood, wood-fired cooking, and relaxed beachside vibe.

The Treehouse, Alnwick

Alnwick Garden Treehouse restaurant surrounded by trees.

For something truly unique, The Treehouse at Alnwick Garden whisks you into a fairytale. Wander across wobbly rope bridges and sip wine under twinkling lights strung through the branches. This magical spot in Alnwick is surprisingly serious about its food, serving innovative dishes crafted from local produce. It’s the ideal setting for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or simply a meal you’ll never forget.

Good to know

  • Address: The Treehouse, The Alnwick Garden, Denwick Lane, Alnwick NE66 1FJ
  • Menu highlight: Braised feather blade of beef with tiger prawns
  • You may also like: The Bosk, like The Treehouse, is a super-elevated space that connects you to nature.

Map of the best places to eat in Northumberland

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Northumberland is bursting with culinary gems just waiting to be discovered. Use this map to explore the best places to eat, from charming coastal cafes to fine dining experiences.


Stay and dine in beautiful Northumberland

Discover Northumberland's incredible food scene, from historic dining spots to cosy seaside eateries, all loved by locals and travellers alike. Book ahead, especially during peak times, to secure your spot. Pair your culinary adventure with a stay in one of our handpicked holiday cottages for the ultimate Northumberland experience.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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