Seahouses in Northumberland is a working fishing village that offers a unique and local experience for those looking to escape the well-trodden tourist paths and is a lovely autumn break
While summer holidaymakers descend upon the coastline, the chillier months offer an opportunity to discover seaside destinations in a more tranquil atmosphere.
The North East of England boasts a coastal treasure that delivers a genuine and refreshing winter getaway, far from the beaten track of popular tourist routes.
Whilst the spectacular Bamburgh Castle, just a brief journey away, frequently captures attention for its enchanting Christmas festivities, its more modest neighbouring town, Seahouses, has been championed by travel specialists.
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Situated approximately 20km north of Alnwick in Northumberland, Seahouses emerged as one of Airbnb’s most popular trending staycation hotspots of 2024.
This active fishing community, with its distinctive character and wild appeal, proves that some of Britain’s finest staycations aren’t necessarily the most renowned, but instead those delivering a distinctive, authentic local adventure, reports the Express.
Seahouses remains home to a functioning smokehouse to this very day. Swallow Fish has been smoking their haul on site since 1843. The historic location is even thought to be the birthplace of the modern kipper, with the company preserving the traditional smoking methods.
Visitors can still purchase conventionally smoked fish here, or venture to the harbour where they might detect a peculiar “cooing” noise – this is the characteristic sound of the Eider duck, a regular resident of the harbour and Britain’s weightiest duck. Seahouses acts as an ideal base for holidaymakers eager to explore the stunning Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on foot.
The coastal footpath passes directly through Seahouses, allowing visitors to trek north towards Bamburgh Castle (roughly a three-mile, fairly level stroll) or head south to Beadnell.
The winter months prove excellent for bird enthusiasts, as migrating species from the Arctic Circle descend upon the coastline. Maritime excursions to the Farne Islands operate throughout the year, conditions permitting, with autumn or winter visits potentially rewarding travellers with glimpses of grey seal pups.
Even without joining any guided tours, Seahouses offers numerous scenic vantage points where visitors can witness the spectacular low sunrises and sunsets that transform the sky into magnificent displays of colour.
Airbnb reviewers have described it as a “lovely town” and “unappreciated spot in northeast England”, with one visitor commenting: “This is a fabulous place for a hike, to take photos or just hang out.”
Seahouses possesses a fascinating heritage, and no trip would be complete without learning about its most courageous former inhabitant, Grace Darling, who ventured out from the town in her rowing boat to rescue survivors from the wrecked Forfarshire fishing vessel.
The community continues to celebrate its legendary heroine, with an RNLI lifeboat stationed in Seahouses proudly carrying her name. There’s nothing quite like cosying up in a traditional Northumberland pub with a roaring fire.
The village boasts a fantastic selection, including the Olde Ship Inn, renowned for its snug, nautical-themed rooms. Naturally, no visit to Seahouses is complete without savouring some classic fish and chips whilst taking in the harbour views.
Neptune Fish Restaurant, the top-rated chippy in the area with 4.4 out of five stars on Google Reviews, is conveniently located near the harbour. If you’re more drawn to a city escape, Norwich has an abundance to offer, from quaint pubs and festive events to scenic riverside strolls.
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