Published On: Thu, Jan 29th, 2026
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‘Tranquil’ bay where rare birds flock in view of spectacular castle | UK | Travel

Three individuals are standing in an outdoor setting, likely engaged in bird watching. They are each holding binoculars to their

This Northumberland gem is perfect for spotting wildlife (Image: Getty Images)

Tucked away along the splendour of the Northumberland coastline lies this bay, which provides breathtaking views for the perfect stroll and an excellent location for nature fans.

Budle Bay sits within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is regarded as a concealed treasure of the region, as it remains relatively peaceful.

What attracts visitors to the bay is its wealth of marine life and other creatures, forming a diverse ecosystem, as it comprises part of the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve.

Encircling the bay itself is an extensive variety of undulating hills, sand dunes and jagged cliffs, so there’s masses to take in during your seaside rambles. Whether you favour viewing the ocean from on high, along the shore or discovering the wetlands surrounding it, the natural world is central to this location, and there’s abundance of it to appreciate.

As it lies between Bamburgh and Lindisfarne, many opt to take strolls along the bay as they approached the magnificent Bamburgh Castle. The location is entirely dog-friendly, so you can take a detour on a walk and find yourself discovering the fascinating heritage of the area, dating back to the 13th century.

What is now recognised as a peaceful area was once a thriving 13th-century port, previously known as Warenmouth. It’s thought to have been a vital commercial centre in the Northeast for maritime trade before it shut in the early 20th century.

An aerial view of a sandy beach with a vast expanse of blue ocean and a clear blue sky.

The beautiful Budle Bay has castles within walking distance (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

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A recent visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “One of the best beaches we’ve visited. There’s nothing else there, no shops or amusements, etc., so I’ve rarely seen it super busy.

“When the tide is out, it leaves behind big pools which are lovely for children and dogs to play in safely. One of my favourite places in Northumberland.”

Meanwhile, another shared: “Just breathtaking! Even when the tide is out, the mudflats attract feeding rare birds – a nature reserve like no other. Sandy Beach is about two miles out to sea from the observation point but worth the walk.”

The beautiful Budle Bay with Lindisfarne Castle in the background

It acts as a great spot for avid birdwatchers (Image: newcastle chronicle)

Budle Bay proves an excellent spot for birdwatching, with numerous different species making the location their home. From seabirds to wading birds and migratory species, visitors can anticipate spotting plenty, including glimpses of seals, otters and occasionally even dolphins in the distant waters.

Alongside the bay sits a family-operated campsite, known simply as Budle Bay Campsite, which provides a relaxed setting to stay in beside the coastline. The facility accommodates caravans, motorhomes, and campervans as well as tents to erect on grass.

Just beyond the bay lies Bamburgh Beach, which provides a more conventional expansive and white sandy shoreline, perfect for days enjoyed with the family and designed for watersports. It’s a location where you’ll frequently witness considerable surfing and kitesurfing as well as swimming, as the shoreline provides unobstructed views of the Farne Islands.