A local's guide to Craster

Looking for the best things to do in Craster, Northumberland? This charming coastal village is famous for its smoked kippers, breathtaking sea views, and one of the most scenic walks in the UK to Dunstanburgh Castle.

Perched on Northumberland’s rugged coastline, Craster is a small fishing village that delivers far more than you’d expect. I grew up in Northumberland, so places like Craster have always been part of my life. Recently, I revisited Craster with my dog. Taking notes specifically for guests planning their own trip, and I was reminded just how special this little fishing village really is.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of Craster.

Why Visit Craster?

Craster is one of those places that feels instantly authentic. It’s not overly polished or commercial, and that’s exactly its charm. A working fishing village with rugged coastline, traditional cottages, and sweeping sea views that capture the essence of a pretty Northumberland village.

On a bright day, especially when the tide is high in the harbour, the sea can take on a surprisingly turquoise, almost Mediterranean look. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and something as simple as watching the waves becomes the highlight of your day.

Parking, access and practical tips

Craster is easy to navigate, and most visits start at the main car park just outside the village. The car park sits within Craster’s largest former quarry, which once supplied whinstone from the Whin Sill for use in local buildings and roads, as well as being exported via the nearby harbour.

It’s generally easy to find, and from here it’s just a short walk down into the village and harbour. During my visit, there were toilets available on-site, along with an ice cream van, ideal on a warm day. There’s also an electric car charger, which is a useful addition for longer trips.

Craster kippers: a true local tradition

You can’t visit Craster without hearing about (or smelling) its famous kippers. They make the perfect breakfast treat for seafood lovers but are also great for any meal, simply grilled with a drop of fresh lemon juice.

L. Robson & Sons smokehouse

The iconic L. Robson & Sons smokehouse has been producing kippers for generations using traditional methods. Their reputation stretches far beyond Northumberland, even rumoured to have been supplied to the British Royal Family, and they hold Grade II-listed status from Historic England.

You can buy them fresh to take home, directly from the shop next door to the smokery, or enjoy them on many menus in Craster. Either way, it’s a must-do Craster experience.

Walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle

The route offers dramatic cliff top views, open countryside, and plenty of sea air. It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins offshore if you’re lucky, and the approach to Dunstanburgh Castle itself is particularly striking, with its ruins rising up against the coastline.

This is one of the most iconic walks in Northumberland, and it’s easy to see why.

Things to do in Craster

Craster offers a relaxed mix of coastal experiences, from scenic walks and wildlife spotting to discovering local heritage and culture. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea or explore at your own pace, it’s an ideal spot to soak up the character of the Northumberland Coast.

Explore the rocky shoreline

Craster’s shoreline is perfect for rock pooling, especially with children. At low tide, there’s plenty to discover. The rugged coastline here is shaped by the Whin Sill, an intrusion of igneous rock that cuts through the surrounding limestone to form striking outcrops. Craster Heugh is part of this geological feature, which was also used as the natural foundation for nearby Dunstanburgh Castle.

Rumbling Kern

A tucked-away cove that offers a quieter, more secluded coastal experience. Rumbling Kern is ideal for those willing to venture slightly off the beaten path in search of something more peaceful.

Arnold Memorial Nature Reserve

The nearby Arnold Memorial Nature Reserve is perfect for birdwatching and gentle exploration. The site is owned by Northumberland Wildlife Trust and provides shelter for an abundance of resident and migrant birds and insects. For visitors, it provides a calm setting for leisurely walks surrounded by nature.

Fiona Dane Gallery

The Fiona Dane Gallery (formerly The Mick Oxley Gallery) showcases a range of local artwork inspired by the surrounding area. It’s well worth a visit for anyone interested in the region’s creative and cultural scene. For returning visitors, it’s worth noting that Mick Oxley still lives just 150 metres away and may be available to speak with on request.

Enjoy the harbour

Originally a natural harbour formed by protective outlying rocks, Craster was once a hub for herring fishing. Today, while crab and lobster are still landed by local boats, the village remains best known for its famous Craster kippers. The present harbour was constructed in 1904 by Captain JCP Craster, giving it the distinctive shape you see today.

On my visit, a Craster Coffee Co pop-up was set up near the harbour, perfect for grabbing a coffee and soaking in the views. Sometimes it’s the simplest moments that stay with you the longest.

Where to eat and drink

For a small village, Craster has some fantastic food options, especially if you enjoy fresh seafood.

The Jolly Fisherman: tried and tested

The Jolly Fisherman offers excellent seafood, sea views, and a welcoming atmosphere. Dogs are allowed in the bar area and beer garden, making it a great stop if you’re walking the coast.

Visitors have even reported spotting dolphins while dining here, which is a pretty unforgettable experience. Following a recent survey of 12,000 UK holidaymakers, one participant said they are happiest when:

“Watching dolphins whilst having an anniversary meal with a sea view in The Jolly Fisherman, Craster.”   

Other dining options

Shoreline Café is a relaxed, dog-friendly spot, perfect for a laid-back meal or coffee by the coast. For something quick and convenient, Pipers Pitch at the car park serves casual food that’s ideal for grabbing on the go.

Slightly further inland, The Arch (formerly The Stable Yard) is another welcoming, dog-friendly option nearby, offering a comfortable place to stop after a day exploring. Just opposite, you will find The Cottage Inn, which provides a good alternative, with a more traditional pub setting and a cosy atmosphere.

Map of Craster

Use the map below to get a clear overview of Craster and its key highlights, from the harbour to coastal walking routes. It’s a helpful way to plan your visit and see how everything fits together within the village and the surrounding area.

Holidays in Craster

Revisiting Craster as an adult, and with the intention of helping others experience it, only deepened my appreciation for it. It’s a place where traditions remain and where the landscape does most of the talking. If you’re planning a trip to Northumberland, Craster isn’t just a stop-off; it’s a highlight. And if you’re anything like me, it’ll be somewhere you keep coming back to.

Browse our handpicked Craster cottages and book your Northumberland coastal escape.