This quaint National Trust fishing village has been called ‘small but perfectly formed’ thanks to its whitewashed cottages, popular microbrewery and stunning beach
Under the stewardship of the National Trust, this charming fishing hamlet along Northumberland’s coastline provides an abundance of opportunities for those seeking a nature-immersed retreat.
Low Newton boasts a breathtaking shoreline that sweeps around the settlement’s perimeter, punctuated by delightful cream-coloured cottages. Beyond the busy tourist months, visitors can anticipate finding the shoreline relatively deserted, and even throughout summer, it remains a lesser-known destination, providing tranquillity.
For enthusiasts eager to engage in water-based activities, the coastline serves as a perfect location for dedicated windsurfers and an excellent vantage point for spectators. Additionally, there are countless rock pools perfect for crab hunting and shallow-water splashing with youngsters.
Positioned serenely in the backdrop stand the magnificent crumbling remains of Dunstanburgh Castle. Though the 14th-century fortress is located in Alnwick, it gazes across the shoreline and sits ideally positioned along the extensive sandy stretch that sweeps around Embleton Bay.
One TripAdvisor reviewer reflected on their coastal visit, stating: “Stunning beach and usually very quiet. It’s the perfect place to walk your pooch and let them off the lead to run for miles and swim if they brave the cold water.” While clearly a compact settlement in scale, it offers substantial attractions, particularly regarding locally-sourced goods.
Most remarkably, Low Newton features a well-regarded microbrewery situated in the village centre, known as The Ship Inn, where guests can enjoy a drink whilst gazing out at the undulating surf. Situated at the centre of the village, this watering hole is renowned throughout the region for its seaside location and generous servings at “reasonable” rates.
Boasting classic furnishings and a welcoming, intimate atmosphere, it draws both residents and holidaymakers seeking a brief respite during their countryside adventures. One guest said: “Small but perfectly formed! This is a great place. Small menu but all freshly prepared. Good choice of beers from their own microbrewery. The perfect stop before a walk along the beach.”
Another added: “We walked here twice to enjoy the crab sandwiches, cheese and crab ploughman’s, and home-brewed beer. The pub is set in a lovely location and is ideal to walk to along the beautiful Northumberland coast.”
Another attraction luring visitors to the picturesque fishing settlement is its abundance of avian life. Newton Pool Nature Reserve, tucked within the expansive sand dunes and adjacent to the shoreline, offers enthusiastic birdwatchers the chance to observe numerous seabirds, coastal species and waterfowl.
Describing the spot as offering “wildlife galore”, one nature enthusiast noted: “This is a lovely little bird reserve overlooking Newton Pool, a peaceful place to sit awhile and watch the birds and other wildlife and take a moment away from the bustle and noise of the rest of the world.”