Travel writer Tom Chesshyre visited Bamburgh after it topped the annual Which? survey for a sixth consecutive year, describing its expansive sandy shore, serene ambience and striking castle setting as a combination that's difficult to match.
Why Bamburgh Stands Out
Writing in the Daily Mail, Chesshyre said: "The sand is soft and tan-coloured. Dunes sprouting wispy grass arise, simultaneously acting as a windbreak and a sun trap - and somehow a bulwark against the hectic modern life beyond." He added: "It is quiet. There are neither amusement arcades nor pleasure rides in Bamburgh village (population 414). There is no graffiti, not a scrap of litter. This is no gaudy Blackpool or Brighton."
The shore extends for approximately 1.5 miles and is flanked by dunes, while rock pools near Bamburgh Lighthouse provide a habitat for starfish and hermit crabs. Apart from a modest beach hut offering sandwiches and bacon rolls, there is minimal commercial development, adding to the location's peaceful character.
Local Business Thrives
Monty, who operates Bait at Bamburgh, told the Daily Mail: "We've been open seven years. Every year the business grows. It's always bouncing here."
Commanding the skyline stands Bamburgh Castle, whose heritage dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. The stronghold, which subsequently belonged to Victorian industrialist William Armstrong, has also featured in the Netflix series The Last Kingdom.
Claire Watson-Armstrong, whose family owns the castle, said she frequently takes advantage of the coastline herself. "I love it. I go paddle boarding and swimming," she said, adding that dolphins sometimes appear offshore.
Visitors Prefer Northumberland to Cornwall
Yet it was remarks from fellow tourists that revealed why certain visitors now prefer the North East to Cornwall. A retired couple from West Yorkshire, whom Chesshyre encountered while dining at seafood restaurant The Potted Lobster, disclosed they had abandoned holidaying in Cornwall entirely. "It's just too busy," they said, explaining why they now favour Bamburgh instead.
Their opinion was mirrored by Julie, proprietor of The Pantry, who previously lived in Cornwall before moving to Northumberland. "The beaches here are superior [to Cornwall's]," she said.
Which? Survey Results
The accolade follows Bamburgh being crowned the UK's best seaside destination in the latest Which? survey of over 5,000 holidaymakers. The village secured an overall destination score of 84%, placing it above Tynemouth and St Andrews. In contrast, well-known seaside destinations such as Newquay and Margate achieved scores of 55% and 53% respectively.
Despite its increasing popularity, Bamburgh has maintained its tranquil charm, featuring independent shops, a small selection of pubs and spectacular views across one of Britain's most acclaimed beaches - helping it retain the top spot for the sixth consecutive year.
