What to Do in Berwick and Holy Island for a Fun Coastal Weekend
Don't underestimate this short stretch of the north Northumberland coast. You'll find white-sand beaches, fabulous fresh seafood and a whole lot of history
In Berwick, it’s not all about the river – you’ll find the coastal offering is more extensive than most people might expect. There’s a pleasant sandy stretch to the north of the mouth of the Tweed, while the long stretches of Spittal, Cocklawburn and Cheswick beaches, just to the south, are connected by a cycle path making it easy to fit in all three in one day. A little further south, past Goswick and its links golf course, you’ll reach Beal and the entrance to the tidal causeway which leads to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, and the ruins of its 12th-century priory.
Base Camp
In Berwick itself, The Walls Bed & Breakfast is an elegant five-star townhouse perched on the town’s Edwardian walls, with stunning views over the River Tweed and a cosy guest lounge with a well-stocked honesty bar. If you’re looking for your own space, Lions House is a magnificently restored Grade II-listed Georgian house in the heart of Berwick. Perfect for large family getaways, the fully-enclosed garden and patio is great for summer evenings, or cosy up by the fire and overlook the sandy beaches and Tweed Estuary from the comfort of the living room. South Berrington’s super-stylish shepherd’s huts are the place for a cool glamping getaway, whilst The Mill House overlooking Lindisfarne Bay is a generously-sized modern home sleeping up to eight people.
Perfect Weekend
See Berwick from a new perspective by taking a ride on Berwick Boat Trips’ river cruise. Enjoy views of the town and sail past several historic sites, before you finish by exploring the imposing town walls by foot. The walk around them offers great views and only takes about 45 minutes. Among the town’s food offering, we’d recommend you check out Mavi Turkish restaurant for authentic kofta and seafood dishes, Audela for contemporary British food made with fresh, seasonal produce, or Atelier where late night charcuterie and cheese can be enjoyed alongside fine wines.
While you’re around the town make sure to call in to Puddles for gorgeous artisan gifts, Whin for unique homeware and Loop Emporium for sustainable fashion. Slightly Foxed second-hand bookshop is worth a look (for the books and the mural on the ceilng), whilst Dockside Gallery features ever-changing exhibtions throughout the year. The gallery stands between two points of the Lowry Trail, so put on your walking boots and enjoy the three-hour walking route as you follow in the footsteps of the great painter. Set off towards Spittal where you’ll find a long beach, a promenade and a play park. From there, head to Cocklawburn to search the rock-pools for fossils, shells and stones, and then continue south to the idyllic Cheswick, where you’ll find a beautiful, quiet white-sand beach.
Cross the tidal causeway to Holy Island (making sure to check the safe crossing times first) and you’ll find yourself in another world. Historic Lindisfarne is ripe for exploration. The now-ruined Priory was the centre of the Christian world in Anglo Saxon times, and the birthplace of the Lindisfarne Gospels. The castle was built as an Edwardian holiday home and has a Gertrude Jekyll-designed garden which is worth exploring. The island is at the end of the St Cuthbert’s Way walking route, and is home to plenty of fascinating wildlife and rare plants. In the village, St Aidan’s Winery is a great place to sample the famous Lindisfarne Mead. Make a pit stop at Pilgrims Coffee House to enjoy coffee roasted on-site, and on a sunny day the beer garden at The Crown & Anchor, with its great views over the harbour, castle and priory, is unbeatable.
