Seahouses, a coastal village in Northumberland near the Scottish border, is a popular destination for its natural beauty, seafront fish and chips, traditional kippers, and access to the Farne Islands. The village lies within the Northumberland Coast National Landscape, a designated area protected for its natural splendour and wildlife.
Beaches and Scenery
The village offers panoramic views stretching for miles and attracts visitors from throughout the Northeast, as well as tourists from across the globe who make brief stops during their travels. With Northumberland National Park and the Farne Islands within easy reach, many are enticed to the locale, with the village serving as an ideal base for exploring the attractions.
The area provides picturesque vistas, walking trails, and pursuits that enable visitors to embrace the great outdoors. One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: "The beaches are so spacious, sandy and peaceful – even in peak season you can find space to enjoy the tranquillity. Head out for an early morning walk and you can have the whole beach to yourself. Stunning sunrises and sunsets."
Seafront Fish and Chips and Kippers
Many travel to the village to savour fresh fish and chips while overlooking the coast, as the area maintains an operational fishing port. This helps cater to the tourist industry and deliver an authentic taste of British cuisine, complemented by breathtaking views.
Renowned for its kippers, the village boasts a rich heritage deeply rooted in fishing and the production of this distinctive fish using time-honoured methods dating back to 1843. As such, Seahouses is credited as the birthplace of the modern kipper, widely believed to have been invented there.
A standout destination for food lovers in the area is the celebrated Swallowfish, an absolute must for any foodie visiting the region. One visitor wrote: "This is the real thing with regard to smoked fish; can't be compared to supermarket kippers with artificial colouring and flavours."
Farne Islands and Lighthouse
Just a stone's throw from Seahouses lie the Farne Islands, a popular draw for tourists who regularly board boats from the village to explore up to 20 of these charming small islands. Many visitors make a point of seeking out the Longstone Lighthouse during their trip, a striking structure dating back to 1926, as they venture out towards the islands.
One reviewer noted: "We saw this lighthouse en route to the Farne Islands, and it was given the wow factor. It's not every day you see a traditional lighthouse in this condition."
Another visitor added: "Caught an organised boat trip from Seahouses. Golden Gate that includes landing and a visit inside the Lighthouse. Taking dogs is no problem. Some breathtaking views, seals, birds, and waves. Perhaps not for the faint-hearted in October, but well worth it."
Whether visitors arrive for the stunning views, the delicious cuisine or as a convenient stopover between Northumberland's islands, Seahouses offers far more than initially apparent. Situated merely 12 miles north of Alnwick and just over an hour's drive from Newcastle city centre, its location proves ideal for discovering its distinctive character.
