North East coastal village in ‘nation’s best-kept secret’ among top UK spots

Warkworth, listed as an exception among the 12 best towns by the sea was also praised by The Express for having the “same idyllic beaches” as Devon and Cornwall but without the crowds.

The publisher commented on its latest coastal guide: “Britain’s seaside towns are rich and diverse and with summer’s becoming hotter more and more people are visiting with 179 million taking day trips to the coast each year.

“But we all have our own favourites and for very different reasons.”

@nefamilyfun This is Warkworth Beach in Northumberland – less than 1 mile from Warkworth castle and with its own free car park and toilets (NE65 0SW). Dog friendly all year round. Yes, our beaches really are this quiet in Northumberland 🙌 Even in summer ☀️ #northumberland #warkworth #warkworthbeach #northumberlandcoast #northumberlandcoastalpath #dogfriendlybeach #northumberlandtiktok #visitnorthumberland ♬ Beach – Ramol

From Bude in Cornwall to Blackpool in Lancashire, you can see the full list here.

Why is Warkworth among the UK’s top seaside spots?

The Express shared: “Ok, so we may have cheated with this one. Warkworth, complete with a charming and incredibly well-preserved medieval castle, is technically a village nestled between the Northumbrian towns of Amble and Alnwick.  

“North East England’s rugged coastline might be the nation’s best-kept secret.

“You will not encounter the same crowds here as in staycation favourites Devon and Cornwall. But you will be treated to the same idyllic beaches with miles of golden sand stretching as far as the eye can see.

Warkworth Beach seems the place to be to admire a peaceful sunset (Image: Tripadvisor)

“Warkworth Beach is one such delight. The village has a solid selection of local pubs (the Mason’s Arms has a spacious outdoor area and does homemade pizzas). Artisan shops line the streets and boutique cafes offer delicious locally made ice cream all year round.”

It seems visitors also think Warkworth Beach is a “delight” as it’s received a 5/5 rating from 450 reviews on Tripadvisor.

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Someone who recently visited posted: “Beautiful beach walked to the very end towards Amble so you can overlook the harbour at Amble. Then walked up the other side (estuary) back to the beach. Chilled for a while then walked the other way towards Alunmouth. Really lovely afternoon.”

Another commented: “Gorgeous, untouched beach that seems to go on for miles. The dog loved running about and we enjoyed a walk…..perfect and quiet too, plenty of room for all.

“Nothing commercial, so take all you need with you!”