• Taking a trip to Seahouses? We’re not surprised – from world-class fish and chips and Farne Islands boat trips to its charming harbour and sweeping beaches, there’s plenty to see and do in this Northumberland coast village.

    It’s also one of the best bases for exploring the wider Northumberland coast, including Bamburgh, Beadnell and Holy Island.

    In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Seahouses, plus a free itinerary to help you plan the perfect coastal getaway.

    FREE SEAHOUSES ITINERARY

Discover Seahouses

Table of contents

Best beaches near Seahouses

Take a boat trip to the Farne Islands

The top attractions to visit

Outdoor activities on Northumberland coast

Enjoy a traditional Northumberland pub

Enjoy the local cuisine

Shopping and amenities

Getting to Seahouses

Best beaches near Seahouses

  • 1. Seahouses North Beach

    Seahouses North Beach (or St. Aidans) is a huge stretch of golden sand that stretches towards Bamburgh, with views of the Farne Islands, as well as amazing bird spotting and rock pools. You can take the three-mile walk up to Bamburgh Beach, staying on the sand the whole time.

    It’s dog friendly year round, too.

  • 2. Annstead Dunes Nature Reserve

    Just a short distance from Seahouses Beach, Annstead Dunes Nature Reserve is a peaceful retreat with rolling sand dunes and rich wildlife. This protected area is great for nature lovers, offering scenic walking trails where you might spot local birds and other wildlife. It’s an excellent spot to escape the village’s hustle and enjoy a serene walk amidst natural beauty.

    Dogs are welcome year round on leads.

  • 3. Bamburgh Beach

    A three-mile walk from Seahouses, Bamburgh Beach is renowned for its striking beauty – named the third most unique beach in the world by TripAdvisor. It features sweeping golden sands, dunes, rockpools and spectacular views of Bamburgh Castle, perched above the sea. This is one of the best sunrise spots on the Northumberland coast.

  • 4. Beadnell Bay

    A short, 10-minute drive from Seahouses, Beadnell Bay stands out for its huge, horseshoe-shaped beach and historic harbour tucked into the northern corner. Take in the rolling dunes, rock pools and southward views of Dunstanburgh Castle.

    It’s dog-friendly year round, but dogs should kept on leads during nesting season (April to August).

5. Take a boat trip to the Farne Islands

  • Booking your boat trip

    Seahouses is the launch point for Farne Islands boat tours. These tours provide unforgettable wildlife watching, for nature lovers and photographers alike. Pre-book a boat ride with companies like Billy Shiel or Serenity Boat Trips, or simply book on the day from the harbour.

    Dogs are often allowed on the boat, but not on land. Golden Gate Boat Trips allow you to bring your dog onto Longstone Island only.

  • When to see the wildlife

    Atlantic grey seals: June to October (pups from September to October)
    Dolphins and whales: May to September (dolphins are more common, with occasional minke whales)
    Puffins: Late April to early August (best from mid-June to early July)
    Terns: May to August (peak in June and July)
    Razorbills: April to August (best in summer)

  • Best time of year to see the wildlife:

    • Atlantic grey seals: June to October (pups from September to October)
    • Dolphins and whales: May to September (dolphins are more common, with occasional minke whales)
    • Puffins: Late April to early August (best from mid-June to early July)
    • Terns: May to August (peak in June and July)
    • Razorbills: April to August (best in summer)

The top attractions to visit near Seahouses

  • 6. Grace Darling Museum

    Discover the famous story of Grace Darling at the Grace Darling Museum in Bamburgh.

    The museum showcases the dramatic 1838 rescue she’s famous for and is a moving tribute that offers a chance to connect with this inspiring local legacy.

    Dogs are not allowed inside the museum.

  • 7. Seahouses Harbour

    Seahouses Harbour is still a lively, working hub for the fishing community. Watch the boats coming and going for a taste of local life, and see if you can spot dolphins from spring to autumn.

    If the weather is nice, get some takeaway fish and chips and enjoy them at the harbour, watching the world go by.

  • 8. Bamburgh Castle

    Just a short drive from Seahouses, Bamburgh Castle stands proudly on a rocky, coastal perch, commanding views of the surrounding beach and landscape.

    This 1,400-year-old castle is one of the most impressive in the UK, with endless history to explore within its ancient walls.

    There are dog-friendly areas both in and outside the castle. Dogs are not allowed inside the State Rooms or Clock Tower Café.

  • 9. Swallow Fish Smokehouse

    Swallow Fish Smokehouse is more than just an eatery – it’s a piece of Northumberland heritage.

    Smoked herring (or kippers) are a staple of Northumberland culinary history, and it’s believed they were invented at Swallow Fish. They even still use the original smokehouses that were installed in 1843.

    Named one of Rick Stein’s Food Heroes, Swallow Fish Smokehouse is where you’ll find the truest taste of Northumberland coast cuisine, making it a must-visit on your trip to Seahouses.

  • 10. Holy Island

    A 30–40 minute drive from Seahouses, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne offers one of the most unique day trips on the Northumberland coast.

    Drive or walk over at low tide (be sure to check the tide times) and you’ll be following in the footsteps of those who have been making the pilgrimage for over 1,000 years.

    From the ancient priory and castle, full of the area’s religious and Viking history, to the National Nature Reserve that envelops the island, a day out here is unlike any other.

Outdoor activities on the Northumberland coast

  • 11. Go coastal walking

    Seahouses offers a range of delightful walks for outdoor enthusiasts, as it’s based on Northumberland’s 62-mile coastal path. Embark on the Beadnell Village to Seahouses Coastal Walk, easy to pick up from our holiday cottages in Beadnell, for a 2.6-mile stroll along Northumberland's coastline. You can also walk this route in reverse, from Seahouses to Beadnell, if you so wish.

  • 12. See Seahouses by cycling

    The Seahouses coastline is ideal for cycling enthusiasts, with plenty of cycle-friendly routes that give you sweeping coastal views and picturesque landscapes.

    For dedicated cycling routes, the Northumberland Coast Path is a popular choice. It extends from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, passing through Seahouses, Bamburgh and more.

    If you're an avid cyclist, we recommend visiting Seahouses during the August Bank Holiday weekend. This is when the annual Great North Bike Ride sets off which runs along the coast and shows you so much of the surrounding area. It’s a great excuse to visit Seahouses during the summer!

  • 13. Go golfing

    Seahouses Golf Course on Beadnell Road is a gorgeous, 18-hole course well-known for its impressive par 3 holes. The course is right by the beach, so you get incredible views of the cliffs and coastline.

    There’s a great club and restaurant onsite, too. The club and golf course are leads-on dog-friendly.

14. Enjoy a traditional Northumberland pub

  • The Olde Ship Inn (Dog-friendly)

    Steeped in history, The Olde Ship Inn combines rustic charm with a great selection of local beers and classic pub grub. You’ll find it nestled near Seahouses' Main Street with a charming, cosy atmosphere and beer garden.

  • The Schooner Inn (Dog-friendly)

    A traditional seaside pub with a lively atmosphere, The Schooner Inn is perfect for those who enjoy good beers and good company. With big-screen TVs, music, and a popular weekly quiz, it’s a great spot to relax and have fun by the coast.

  • Black Swan Inn (Dog-friendly)

    For a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of ales in Seahouses, visit Black Swan Inn. The menu features fresh seafood and classic pub dishes, including a standout seafood platter with oysters, prawns, and more. Enjoy friendly service, and a charming beer garden, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day by the coast.

15. Enjoy the local cuisine

  • Lewis's Fish Restaurant

    Named as one of the UK’s best fish and chip shops, Lewis's Fish Restaurant on Main Street is the place to go. From beef dripping chips to lobster bites, this menu of fresh, locally-caught Northumberland seafood is all you need after a day at the beach.

  • Insieme

    Craving Italian in Seahouses? Insieme is the place to go. Named after the Italian word for ‘together,’ this cosy restaurant serves up a delicious range of dishes, from pasta and pizza to hearty meat options. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeaway, you can enjoy homemade desserts, ice creams, and a variety of coffees and aperitifs.

  • The Bamburgh Castle Inn (Dog-friendly)

    For a dining experience with a view, visit The Bamburgh Castle Inn. Located along Seahouses' rugged coastline, this inn offers delicious locally-sourced dishes and stunning views of the North Sea. It's a fantastic spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, blending historic charm with excellent food.

Shopping and amenities

  • Day-to-day shopping

    Seahouses high street is brimming with delightful local shops. Stroll along Main Street to discover a string of gift shops including North Shore Gifts, a lovely spot for local souvenirs and unique gifts. Beach Hut is perfect for picking up stylish, beachy apparel, accessories and gifts. If you fancy a spot of thrifting, the Sue Ryder Charity Shop has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be snapped up.

  • For the big shop

    When it’s time for a grocery run, head to Co-op Food or Sainsbury’s Local, both conveniently located for all your essential supplies. Don’t miss Seahouses Fruit & Veg for a variety of local goods while Scotty’s butchers provides a selection of premium meat and artisanal products.

Getting to Seahouses

Seahouses is easily reachable by car via the scenic Northumberland Coastal Route, or you can take the A1. For a more scenic journey, we recommend the former.
If you prefer public transport, you can take the Arriva X18 bus to Seahouses which runs from Newcastle to Berwick and stops at Morpeth, Amble, and Alnwick.

Where to park

The Harbour Car Park is ideal if you’re exploring the village and harbour or taking a boat trip. It costs £2 per hour or £8 for the day.

Seafield Car Park and Station Yard are also located in the village centre.

How to spend a day in Seahouses

Morning

  • Sunrise at Seahouses Harbour: Begin your day early by watching the sunrise over Seahouses Harbour. With its very northerly location, summertime sunrises can be as early as 4:20am in Seahouses - so be sure to set your alarm early if you want to catch it!
  • Breakfast at a local café: After enjoying the sunrise, head to a local café like Seahouses Café or The Ocean Club Coffee Shop for a hearty breakfast to fuel your day ahead.
  • Visit the Farne Islands: Book a morning boat tour from Seahouses Harbour to the Farne Islands to enjoy Northumberland’s rugged landscape as well as the local fauna. Remember - the wildlife you’ll spot on the Farne Islands will vary depending on the season. For Atlantic grey seal pups, take a trip between October and December. Make sure to check the tour times and book in advance, especially during the peak season.

Afternoon

  • Lunch at the Bamburgh Castle Inn: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch with views of the coast at The Bamburgh Castle Inn. Their menu often features locally caught fish and classic British dishes.
  • Explore Seahouses beach: Walk off lunch by spending your early afternoon strolling along the expansive Seahouses Beach.
  • Heritage trail: From the beach, head into town to explore local heritage sites like the RNLI Grace Darling Museum, a must-see for learning about the local heroine and the area's maritime history.

Evening

  • Dine at a local seafood restaurant: For dinner, head to The Black Swan Inn. Boasting a four-part dining experience, you can have whatever evening you fancy here - from the relaxed bar, to the more formal orangery, to the alfresco garden. Renowned for its fresh seafood and charming ambiance, it's a perfect spot to enjoy the culinary delights of Northumberland, such as Lindisfarne oyster, haddock chowder and locally-caught lobster.
  • Sunset and Evening Stroll: Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk along the harbour to digest your meal and enjoy the sunset over the North Sea.
  • Nightcap at The Olde Ship Inn: End your day with a nightcap at The Olde Ship Inn, where you can enjoy a selection of local ales in a traditional pub setting filled with maritime memorabilia.

FAQs

Does Seahouses have a beach?

Yes, Seahouses has two beautiful beaches. Seahouses North Beach, also known as St. Aidans, connects to Bamburgh Beach and offers stunning views of the Farne Islands. Seahouses South Beach (also known as Annstead) is a smaller beach that stretches from Seahouses Golf Course to Beadnell Village. These beaches are popular with both tourists and locals. They offer great spots for family outings, picnics, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Visitors can also see diverse bird species and large colonies of seals, including the distinctive Puffin.

Yes, both beaches are dog-friendly year-round. North Beach boasts a gorgeous stretch of golden sand with gently sloping terrain and grassy dunes. It extends about three miles. Dogs can freely explore the area, even during the summer when early morning strolls are perfect before the sand heats up. South Beach is a smaller sandy stretch with rocky outcrops and rock pools. It is backed by Annstead Dunes Nature Reserve. This creates an inviting atmosphere for a leash-friendly morning stroll.

Yes, you can embark on a scenic coastal walk from Seahouses to Bamburgh along the beach. The breathtaking views of the Northumberland coastline make this journey a favourite among nature enthusiasts. The walk is approximately three miles so you can catch a bus back or make a day of it!

Driving to Seahouses is a breeze, with some convenient parking options. The most convenient parking spaces are available at The Harbour Car Park, but this fills up quickly. Its location is especially handy for those looking to enjoy a boat trip. It’s just £6 for the day, making it a great option for anyone heading to the town for the whole day. Additional options include Station Yard, with rates from free to £9.50 for the day. And Seafield Car Park which is located behind the Tourist Information Centre in town.

While the Seahouses arcade is a popular attraction, it is advisable to check with each establishment directly regarding their pet policy as some arcades may have restrictions. Checking online or calling to confirm in advance will help to ensure a smooth visiting experience.

You can see Puffins on the Farne Islands between April and July, and the best way to reach the Farne Islands is on a boat trip from Seahouses.

There is no longer a train station in Seahouses itself. The most convenient railway stations on the East Coast Main Line are Alnmouth or Berwick-upon-Tweed. From there, you can complete your journey to Seahouses by taking a bus or taxi. While Chathill is the nearest station, located 5 miles away, it has a limited service.

The Farne Islands are positioned midway between Seahouses and Bamburgh, along the Northumberland coastline. They are accessible by boat tours from Seahouses Harbour. These iconic islands are situated at the most easterly point of the ‘Great Whin Sill,’ a volcanic rock formation stretching from Cumbria. They are famous for their diverse wildlife, featuring puffins and seals. To plan a visit, it’s advisable to check with tour operators for the latest tour costs.

Seahouses is famous for its proximity to the Farne Islands, a natural reserve teeming with diverse birdlife and seals. The village also serves as a gateway to the stunning Bamburgh Castle. It offers a quintessential coastal experience with its vibrant atmosphere, seafood restaurants, and captivating views.

A great base to explore Seahouses

Experience the charm of Seahouses from the comfort of our inviting self-catering cottages in Beadnell. These cosy retreats offer a home away from home, providing the ideal starting point for your Northumberland adventure. With the historic village of Bamburgh just a 10-minute drive away, you’re perfectly situated to explore all the beauty and attractions the area has to offer.

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