Bamburgh in Northumberland has been named one of Britain's best weekend getaways, according to Hazel Rickett, CEO of small tour operator Rabbies. The seaside town, roughly an hour's drive from Newcastle, is known for its historic castle, golden sandy beach and range of shops, restaurants and cafes.
Why Bamburgh stands out
Rickett previously revealed seven of the best UK destinations for making the most of a short break, with Bamburgh making the cut. She said: "For travellers looking to escape the crowds without compromising on scenery or history, Bamburgh is one of Northumberland's standout destinations. Dominated by its magnificent castle overlooking miles of golden sand, the village combines dramatic coastal landscapes with a peaceful atmosphere."
Visitors can explore the historic castle, stroll along the beach, take in panoramic sea views and enjoy the village's independent cafes and local shops. Rickett added: "Offering a quieter alternative to many of the UK's more popular seaside destinations, Bamburgh is an ideal choice for a relaxing coastal staycation."
Seasonal appeal and accommodation
The beach is popular in summer, but in autumn it can be a beautiful spot for a leisurely Sunday walk before heading to one of the area's pubs for a roast. During colder months, the area has been known to offer ideal locations for spotting the Northern Lights from the UK.
For places to stay, Booking.com has a guide to some of the best cheap hotels in Bamburgh, while TripAdvisor lists the 10 best hotels based on reviews, with prices from £127 a night. Sykes Holiday Cottages offers pet-friendly cottages, holidaycottages.co.uk has homes with seven-night stays from £509, and Independent Cottages provides properties including romantic boltholes that sleep two.