Bamburgh’s golden beach - framed against the town’s majestic castle - has seen off fierce competition to be ranked third best in the world’s ‘one of a kind’ beaches.

The accolade from TripAdvisor's 2026 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards is based on millions of reviews rating Bamburgh’s stunning sands over renowned destinations in the US, Chile, Puerto Rico and New Zealand.

Clinching a prestigious third place after Boulders Beach Penguin Colony in South Africa and Isola Bella (Beautiful Island) in Bambu, Sicily, visitors were bowled over by Bamburgh’s captivating shores.

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1958, the beach is part of Northumberland’s 62-mile Coastal Path which stretches from near our home in Cresswell, North of Newcastle, to Berwick-upon-Tweed on the Scottish border.

For me personally, the magic of sandy coastal walks to Bamburgh and its quaint town, never wears off. I particularly love the tranquil three-mile stroll from Seahouses, a gritty working harbour and gateway to the Farne Islands.

For many travellers, the beach is the main event… based on millions of trips, reviews, and opinions, these awards highlight the very best beaches in the world - making it easier to decide where to go and how to spend your time once you're there.

Wealth of Unique Features

The only UK beach to make the top ten in TripAdvisor's travellers’ ratings, Bamburgh beach boasts a raft of unique features including diverse wildlife and birdlife including waders, wildfowl, and raptors.

The nearby Farne islands are also home to over 200,000 breeding seabirds of twenty-three different species including Atlantic Puffins, Arctic terns, guillemots and razorbills.

A vital coastal ecosystem and home for rare plant species and insects, Bamburgh’s extensive sand dunes enhance their dramatic, wind-swept landscape. A five-year conservation project costing £5.8 million pounds is currently underway to protect the natural habitat from invasive species.

Historical Significance

Reigning over Bamburgh beach for over 1,600 years with breathtaking views is the magnificent Grade 1 listed Bamburgh castle.

A former royal seat of Northumbrian Kings, its strategic role as a powerhouse in the region - coupled with its rich and colourful legacy - is internationally renowned.

Invaded by Viking raiders and under threat when William the Conqueror seized the English Crown in 1066, Bamburgh was the first English castle to capitulate to cannon fire during the Wars of the Roses four centuries later – and has survived to tell the tale.

Exploring its stately grandeur and eye-catching architecture is highly recommended for travellers exploring the area, and an experience to linger over.

The splendour of the fourteen exquisite State Rooms with over three thousand objects including paintings by past masters, gorgeous furniture, weapons and porcelain – is jaw-dropping.

The opulence of the King’s Hall, a 19th Century masterpiece, reflects the high quality and standards of Victorian craftsmanship and materials.

Standout features include an intricate teak ceiling ceiling, walls produced from Siamese teak, and a stunning stained-glass window. The hall is also decorated with heraldry dating back to Henry V and Henry V1.

A backdrop for a host of films and TV series, the castle hosts regular events. A current exhibition of the props and costumes from the hit Netflix series The Last Kingdom runs until November the first this year.

With spring around the corner, the allure of Bamburgh awaits visitors at this coastal gem where seals and dolphins may be spotted in the water.

Although biased because this county is my home, Bamburgh's sun dappled beach is a precious seaside jewel in Northumberland’s wonderland.

Key Facts
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