Northumberland-Embleton Tower: My cousin's amazing project

We had been told Northumberland was a county that we just had to visit (also as instructed by the actor Robson Green on his TV tours around the county with his acting mates - although we have since been informed that he doesn't actually spend much time there now!).

We also had an additional large incentive - my cousin Jenny had bought an amazing, historic property in Embleton - close to the coast. So we set off for the far North of England..

Embleton Tower, also known as the Old Vicarage Tower, is a three-story pele tower built in 1395. Originally part of the vicarage, the tower was designed to provide defence against potential attacks, particularly during the period of frequent border conflicts between England and Scotland. It was later incorporated into a larger vicarage, which was extended and modified throughout the centuries, including additions in the 18th and 19th centuries

Neither Sara nor I had visited North East England (sad really) so it was all new for us. We knew we were well north when we passed the 'Angel of the North' (passing it slowly, as for a change, there was an accident on the motorway, slowing things down....).

Note the lack of traffic in the other carriageway. An accident closed the other side and gave us about 30 minutes to enjoy looking at the Angel.....

Embleton and Embleton Tower

Tucked quietly along Northumberland’s rugged Heritage Coast, Embleton is a postcard-perfect village where time seems to move with the tide. It’s the kind of place where you can hear seabirds before you see the sea—and what a sight it is.

We arrived at Embleton Tower - my cousin's little property and parked up (reducing the tone of the place for sure!!)

What a stunning property!

Embleton Bay

My cousin lives in a fantastic location. Just a short walk from the 'Tower' through the village and down the hill to the golf club lies Embleton Bay, one of the most stunning and unspoilt stretches of sand in the UK! Wide dunes roll down to a sweep of golden beach.

Archie ready for the beach!

Archie en route to his favourite place!

Expansive sands at Embleton Bay

Perched up on the dunes, you have a fantastic set of beach huts, which must make for a wonderful escape from the day-job!

Towering in the distance are the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, an awe-inspiring backdrop to morning strolls, picnics, and sunset photography. The beach is rarely crowded, making it ideal for peaceful walks, wild swimming, or simply soaking up the raw beauty of the North Sea.

Looking across Embleton Bay, with Dunstanburgh Castle in the background

Close up view of the castle ruins

Embleton’s charm lies in its simplicity: traditional stone cottages, a welcoming pub or two, and the kind of views that make you pause mid-sentence. It's an ideal base for those seeking tranquillity, natural beauty, and coastal heritage without the tourist throngs.

Alnwick: A Historic Heart of Northumberland with Storybook Charm

A short drive from Embleton and set amidst the rolling countryside of Northumberland, Alnwick (pronounced Ann-ick) is a town where centuries of history meet creative, contemporary flair. At its heart lies the magnificent Alnwick Castle, one of the largest inhabited castles in England and famously featured in the Harry Potter films. But Alnwick’s appeal goes far beyond the castle walls. The town is home to the spellbinding Alnwick Garden, with its cascading Grand Fountain, Poison Garden, and treetop walkway that feels more like a fantasy film set than a public garden.

Alnwick blends heritage, culture, and warm community spirit, making it a perfect base for exploring the wider wonders of Northumberland, from castles and coasts to moors and dark skies. Whether you're here for the history, the gardens, or simply a slice of Northumbrian life, Alnwick offers a rich and memorable experience.

Wander the cobbled streets and you’ll find independent shops, characterful cafés, and the iconic Barter Books—one of Britain’s best-loved second-hand bookshops, set in a restored Victorian railway station complete with open fires and model trains. It also has a fantastic cafe that, of course, we had to visit!

The iconic Barter Book, Alnwick

You could spend days in here!

Holy Island of Lindisfarne: A Sacred Isle Steeped in Serenity and Legend

Cut off from the mainland twice daily by the tide, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is one of Northumberland’s most evocative and atmospheric destinations. Accessible only via a causeway revealed by the ebbing sea, the journey to Holy Island feels like entering another world—one shaped by ancient faith, windswept beauty, and timeless rhythms. This tiny island played a pivotal role in early Christianity, as the 7th-century home of Saint Aidan and the birthplace of the beautifully illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels.

Today, you can explore the peaceful ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, walk along wildflower-dotted paths with views over the North Sea, and climb up to the fairytale-like Lindisfarne Castle, perched dramatically on a volcanic outcrop (thankfully run by the National Trust).

Having checked the tide times we set off across the causeway!

My cousin is ahead, walking across the expansive sands at Lindisfarne. This was an other worldly experience as the sands were so flat and the patterns generated by the wind were amazing!

Pathway up to the castle

The castle in all it's glory!

Popping down the hall to the lounge!

Setup ready for dinner, however someone has had too much wine!

Looking out from the castle to the Farne Islands

Bamber Bangers (and the Castle!)

One of the best sausages we have ever tasted! From R. Carter and Son butchers (Bamburgh) they are full of flavour.

Of course, whilst you are there, you can also visit the impressive Bamburgh Castle which is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring castles in the UK. With its commanding position on the Northumberland coast, this mighty fortress has watched over the North Sea for over 1,400 years. Once the royal seat of the Kings of Northumbria, Bamburgh has evolved from an Anglo-Saxon stronghold to a Norman keep and finally into the stately, privately owned castle we see today. The castle grounds also hold tales of fierce battles, Victorian restoration, and pioneering medicine—thanks to Lord Armstrong, the 19th-century industrialist who made Bamburgh his legacy project.

Leaving Embleton

We had a great time with my cousin and her family, who ensured we saw many of the sights and visited numerous local cake and coffee shops. We agreed to return later in the year and spend more time there.

For now, we must move on to our next location - Scotland and North Berwick!

After another busy day, Ted and Esme taking advantage of the real fire :-)