What You Need to Know about Visiting Warkworth and Amble
Two neighbouring coastal hotspots, both with lots to see and do and well worth a day out
Eat
In Warkworth, Bertram’s has a brand new look and menu but don’t worry, you can still expect the same warm welcome and rustic charm as before, whether you’re stopping in for a delicious breakfast or lunch from the tempting all-day menu, or enjoying their delicious seasonal bistro menu in the evening. Dog-and muddy boots-friendly pub The Masons Arms is a must for classic pub grub and a great selection of real ales. Amble has an exciting foodie scene and for locally-sourced seafood head to The Old Boathouse on the harbour for everything from Lindisfarne oysters to North Shields dressed crab. The popular and intimate Jasper’s Bistro also serve fabulous fresh fish cooked to order from their open kitchen. Rossini is a friendly neighbourhood Italian but when you’re in Amble you need to try a scoop (or two) of Spurreli’s award-winning ice cream from their parlour on Coquet Street.
Sleep
A handful of homely B&Bs can be found in the area – including five boutique-style rooms at the aforementioned Bertram’s in Warkworth. Opposite Warkworth Castle, The Sun Hotel is a 17th century coaching inn complete with a steakhouse, while Fairfield House is traditional guesthouse with Gold Award accommodation. The Amble Inn is a coastal pub with 30 comfortable rooms, and they welcome your four-legged friends and there are plenty of self-catering options in the area from Coquet Cottages, including Roseate House in Amble sleeping six, and 19th century Lane End Cottage in Warkworth perfect for two.
Browse
In Warkworth, Cabosse is an independent confectionery, homeware and gift shop – their hot chocolate is up there with the best. The Greenhouse is where to go for home accessories and gifts, and head to Gray’s for fashion accessories. Amble Harbour Village is home to 15 small retail pods selling an eclectic variety of art, crafts, accessories and food and drink. Pick up luxury pet accessories at Urban Pooch, handmade jewellery at SeaWaves Jewellery, and browse the clothing and accessories at Beach Hut Amble.
Around the Corner
Between Amble and Cresswell, Druridge Bay is a seven-mile sweep of coast fringed with sand dunes. Within Druridge Bay Country Park is a café and play area, and there’s a freshwater lake, woods and meadows which provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic. Cresswell itself is a popular spot for twitchers hoping to spot their favourite birds. Pop into The Drift Café beside Cresswell Pond for homemade cake and coffee, or try Mykonos at the Drift for authentic Greek cuisine.
DON'T MISS
Spend the afternoon at the historic site of Warkworth Castle. Explore its magnificent cross-shaped keep and take in spectacular views of the River Coquet from the castle walls. Striking sculptures have been installed in the castle grounds to create a series of interactive trails which reveal the lives of people who lived in or near the castle in the early 15th century. Based in Amble, Northside Surf School is a must visit to perfect your surfing and paddleboarding skills. Follow the Amble Bord Waalk, a special trail of 16 bird sculptures by local artists. Download the app and learn about each piece as you find them, or learn more about local wildlife at the RSPB seabird sanctuary of Coquet Island just a mile off the coast, and take a boat trip around the island to see them for yourself.
