Alnmouth is a picturesque seaside village with pastel-painted cottages, a vast sandy beach and a history as a busy port
If you’ve ever taken a drive along the Northumberland coast en route to Alnwick or Bamburgh, chances are you’ve whizzed past one of the county’s most delightful hidden treasures.
Nestled at the mouth of the River Aln, just four miles from Alnwick, lies the picturesque seaside village of Alnmouth. With its vibrant pastel cottages lining the estuary, fishing boats gently bobbing on the water, and a sprawling beach that reaches out into the North Sea, it’s a sight to behold.
Yet, it often gets overshadowed by its more renowned neighbours.
Once a bustling grain port with global trade connections, Alnmouth underwent a transformation into a resort town with the arrival of the railway in the 19th century. Today, it’s nestled within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, drawing in walkers, birdwatchers, history enthusiasts and families seeking a tranquil slice of coastal life.
The village’s main attraction is undoubtedly its expansive golden sandy beach, where the River Aln kisses the sea. Divided into three bays, it’s a popular spot for family picnics, leisurely dog walks, or simply kicking back with fish and chips while watching the tide ebb and flow, reports the Express.
Even in winter, the beach retains its wild charm, as crashing waves and windswept dunes lend it a rugged, filmic quality. Horse riding is a favourite pastime here, and those up for a longer trek can join the Northumberland Coast Path and St Oswald’s Way for extended coastal adventures.
Nestled within the harbour sits a peculiarity you won’t discover elsewhere in the county – Northumberland’s tiniest museum.
The Ferryman’s Hut is a single-room building formerly utilised by boatmen who ferried locals across the estuary.
The service ceased in the 1960s, yet the hut remains packed with photographs and tales of the men who maintained its operation.
Beyond, Alnmouth’s pastel-coloured houses have secured it the moniker “the Tobermory of Northumberland.”
Wander down Northumberland Street, the principal route, and you’ll discover independent coffee houses, galleries, pubs and gift shops.
The Old School Gallery stands out, merging a contemporary art venue with a café.
Don’t overlook the opportunity to climb Church Hill for panoramic views across the estuary.
For adventure-seeking visitors, the dunes surrounding Alnmouth serve as a prime location for birdwatching, with waders and wildfowl regularly visiting the estuary.
The region holds designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, so anticipate spotting everything from curlews to oystercatchers depending on the season.
Cycling paths also traverse this area, including the Coast and Castles trail. While Alnmouth may appear to be a tranquil holiday destination now, its history is far from quiet.
Once a bustling port, Alnmouth was known for exporting grain and importing timber, slate and even guano from Peru. By the mid-18th century, up to 18 ships could be seen in its harbour.
However, a violent storm in 1806 altered the course of the river, leading to a decline in trade. The arrival of the railway coincided with this downturn, transforming Alnmouth into a seaside retreat.
Echoes of its tumultuous past can be found throughout the village – from granary buildings converted into homes, to World War II defences still visible among the dunes.
Despite its secluded feel, Alnmouth is surprisingly easy to reach. Hipsburn railway station, just over a mile from the village, provides connections to Newcastle, Edinburgh and Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Regular bus services run along the coast, and there’s ample parking available at a large public car park by the seafront.