Leah Amos
15 November 2024
Nestled along the Northumberland coast, Low Newton-by-the-Sea is a small but notable village known for its unspoilt beach, charming square, and sweeping coastal views over Embleton Bay. This hidden gem is ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape, with its scenic beauty and slower pace of life making it the perfect retreat.
The village’s rich history and proximity to the ancient ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle offer a glimpse into the region’s past. Visitors can enjoy a coastal walk to the castle while taking in breathtaking views of the North Sea. The village itself retains its traditional charm, with historic buildings and a strong maritime heritage.
Low Newton-by-the-Sea is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers. It offers beautiful walking trails through sand dunes and along coastal paths. After a day of exploring, visitors can relax at The Ship Inn, known for its fresh seafood and locally brewed ales, making the village a delightful spot for all who visit.
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Best attractions in Low Newton-by-the-Sea
Low Newton-by-the-Sea offers a range of attractions that highlight its natural beauty and rich history. From exploring the iconic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle to relaxing on the tranquil sands of Newton Beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Dunstanburgh Castle
No trip to Low Newton-by-the-Sea is complete without visiting the iconic Dunstanburgh Castle. Perched on a rugged headland, these dramatic ruins date back to the 14th century and offer a glimpse into Northumberland’s rich history. A coastal path from Low Newton-by-the-Sea makes for a scenic approach, rewarding you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Good to know:
- Opening times: Open daily, 10am–4pm
- Price: Adults from £6.50, children from £3.50
- Are dogs welcome? Dogs on leads are allowed
- Tip from a local: “Though Dunstanburgh Castle is managed by English Heritage, National Trust members can enter for free if you have a valid membership!”– Quote from Northumbrian local
Newton Beach
Newton Beach is one of the village’s main attractions, offering pristine sands and shallow waters. It’s perfect for families looking to spend a day at the beach, as well as those seeking a peaceful spot to unwind. The beach is dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors travelling with pets.
Good to know:
- Opening times: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free
- Are dogs welcome? Yes, this is a pet-friendly beach
- Tip from a local: “If you catch the bay in the right weather conditions, it can be a prime spot for surfing (and other watersports!). For beginners, the NE surf school in Bamburgh is just 20 minutes down the road.” – Quote from Northumbrian local
Newton Pool Nature Reserve
Situated just behind the dunes, Newton Pool Nature Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. This protected area is home to a diverse range of wildlife and provides a serene backdrop for birdwatching and photography. With hides and viewing points, you can enjoy the reserve without disturbing the local flora and fauna.
Good to know:
- Opening times: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free
- Are dogs welcome? Yes, but please keep dogs on leads near the bird hide
- Tip from a local: “Keep an eye out for the simple guides within the hides which outline which bird species you can see. If you’re lucky, you may even spot an otter or two!” – Quote from Northumbrian local
Best places to eat in Low Newton-by-the-Sea
Though small, Low Newton-by-the-Sea boasts a charming dining scene where you can rub shoulders with the locals. With cosy atmospheres and seaside views, diners can enjoy hearty, homemade meals paired with local ales and welcoming Northumbrian hospitality.
The Ship Inn
A beloved spot among locals and visitors alike, The Ship Inn is known for its cosy atmosphere and delicious seafood. Housed in a traditional whitewashed building overlooking the village square, this pub serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes like crab sandwiches and fish pies. The Ship Inn’s own microbrewery offers a selection of house-brewed ales, adding a unique local touch to your dining experience.
Good to know:
- Address: The Ship Inn, Low Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick NE66 3EL
- Opening Times: Sun–Tues 11am–6pm and Wed–Sat 11am–10pm
- Why not try? Hand-picked local crab. Visit The Ship Inn’s website for more information.
- Why guests love it: “Pie night at the Ship (Sat), is not to be missed, book in advance though.” – Gillian
The Joiners Arms
The Joiners Arms in High Newton is a vibrant gastropub that blends rustic charm with modern style. Known for dishes like their signature Northumberland beef burger and locally sourced seafood, the menu celebrates fresh, regional produce. Cosy fireplaces and exposed stone walls create an inviting setting, while the bar offers craft ales and wines. Popular with both locals and travellers, it's a top choice for hearty meals.
Good to know:
- Address: The Joiners Arms, High Newton-by-the-Sea, Alnwick NE66 3EA
- Opening Times: Sun–Thurs 12pm–8.30pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm–4pm then 5pm–9pm
- Why not try? Beer-battered haddock, locally known as a “chippy tea”. Visit The Joiners Arms website for more information.
- Why guests love it: “The local gastro pub, The Joiners Arms, has good food and is very friendly.” – Lorraine
Best walks in Low Newton-by-the-Sea
Low Newton-by-the-Sea is a walker’s paradise, offering some of Northumberland's most scenic coastal trails. From sandy beaches to rugged clifftops, the area boasts a variety of routes for all levels. Each path promises stunning views, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and explorers.
Newton to Dunstanburgh Castle Walk (circular)
One of the most popular walks in the area is the route from Low Newton-by-the-Sea to the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. This circular walk takes you along the coast, offering sweeping views of the North Sea and Embleton Bay. The path is easy to follow, making it suitable for most walkers, and the castle ruins at the end provide a stunning photo opportunity.
Good to know:
- Start point: Low Newton car park, Alnwick NE66 3EH
- Length: 6 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
- Stay nearby: The Moorings | Sleeps 6
Newton Pool Nature Reserve Walk
For a more leisurely stroll, the Newton Pool Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers. This tranquil spot, located just behind the sand dunes, offers easy paths around the reserve where you can spot a variety of bird species, including herons and wading birds. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful walk in nature.
Good to know:
- Start point: Low Newton car park, Alnwick NE66 3EH
- Length: 1 mile | Difficulty: Easy
- Stay nearby: Old Farm Buildings Cottage | Sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
Embleton Bay Walk
For those looking for a longer adventure, the Embleton Bay walk offers expansive sandy beaches and beautiful coastal scenery. Starting in Low Newton-by-the-Sea, this walk stretches towards Craster, with plenty of opportunities to explore rock pools and take in the fresh sea air.
Good to know:
- Start point: Low Newton car park, Alnwick NE66 3EH
- Length: 4.5 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
- Stay nearby: Beach Retreat | Sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
Map of Low Newton-by-the-Sea's top spots
Explore our map to find the best walks, attractions, and dining options in Low Newton-by-the-Sea. Plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss any of the hidden gems along this stunning stretch of the Northumberland coast.
Plan your stay in Low Newton-by-the-Sea
After a day of exploring scenic walks, visiting historic ruins, and enjoying local flavours, retreat to one of our self-catering holiday cottages in Low Newton-by-the-Sea. Our cottages offer the perfect base for your coastal adventure, providing all the comforts of home with stunning views right at your doorstep. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly stay, find your ideal cottage and make the most of this beautiful part of Northumberland.
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.