Warkworth

Warkworth is dominated by its castle on the hill, the former residence of the Dukes of Northumberland before they moved more specious accommodation at Alnwick. It is also almost completely encircled by the River Coquet and so it is easy to see why the site was chosen to defend against marauding border tribes. It is well worth stopping off if you have to pass through Warkworth on the coast road between Alnmouth and Amble.  The charming village has some quaint shops, cafes pubs, an ancient church and shop selling wonderful ice-cream!  It is walking distance (about half mile) from one of the best beaches in Northumberland, if not the UK.  In Spring Warkworth Castle's ramparts are covered in daffodils (as pictured below).  By summer visitors can hire rowing boats to explore the river behind the town.

Warkworth is about 4 miles from The Summerhouse cottage at Alnmouth and it is possible to walk there, along a coastal path, or the beach.