Craster

The Craster and Alnwick Tourist Information Centres have a wide range of information for visitors and the following suggestions represent only a few ideas for visitors new to the area.

The Craster Community Trust web site provides much helpful information about Craster, including a well illustrated section on Craster's attractions.

On foot, in and around Craster

Walks along the coast;

• North to Dunstanburgh Castle managed by English Heritage, but National Trust membership secures entry also, is open to the public as follows:

and round the headland to Embleton Beach; refreshments are available at the Golf Club and at the Ship Inn in Low Newton.

• South to Cullernose Point, home to a kittiwake colony, then on to Howick. The Old Bath House is visible close to the beach.

• The beaches along this section of coast range from small coves to dramatic expanses of sand. Occasionally grey seals can be spotted swimming close to the shore.

Walks inland;

• There is a short walk through the Nature Reserve past the TIC and south to Cullernose Point or Howick Garden.

• The footpath over the road from the TIC leads behind the Heugh, then meets up with the Dunstanburgh Coastal path.

All these walks provide excellent opportunities for bird watching, wild flower spotting and photography.

• Enjoy sea views over lunch at The Jolly Fisherman.

• Examples of the work of local artists Mick Oxley, Emma George and Sylvia Biott can be seen at Harbour Lights.

• Mick has a studio/gallery in the centre of Craster, where he both paints and sells his work. From Easter to the end of October, it is open from 10.00am to 5.00pm Tuesday to Saturday and 11.00am to 5.00pm on Sunday. It is closed on Monday. Shorter opening hours during the winter months.

• Mick and Emma open their studios as part of 'the Art Tour' organised by Nework Artists in Northumberland. Emma's studio is open on 8, 15, 22, 29 June and 6, 12/13, July and Mick's on 29 June and 6, 12/13 July. Just follow the Art Tour signs when you reach Craster.

• If you enjoy sea food, a trip to Robson’s Smokehouse to purchase a taste of Craster to take home with you is a must. They also provide a mail order service if you would rather your kippers had separate travel arrangements! Their Fish Restaurant is open for lunches and dinners and meals may be booked on 01665 576223. Please note, the Restauarant is closed on Sundays.

• Visit the Village Shop and Tearoom , a few minutes walk from Harbour Lights, for newspapers, drinks, ice creams, sweets etc as well as drinks and light refreshments.

• Take a sea fishing trip from the harbour with Douglas Hogg, ring 01665 576514.

• Craster is a great place for bird watching

Or just relax! The ice cream van often parks by the harbour gardens on sunny days. Sit in the harbour and watch the world go by.

By car

Local places of interest include;

Howick Garden and Arboretum , which is within walking distance if you are feeling energetic. Enjoy year round interest in this garden and look out for the red squirrels. Relax in the tea room with a pot of Earl Grey tea. This tea was specially blended for Earl Grey, the Victorian Prime Minister, who lived at Howick Hall. (10min)

Alnwick is a small market town that has retained its character. Market day is on Saturday (also Thursdays in summer) and there is a Farmers’ Market on the last Friday in each month. Early closing day is on Wednesday. Barter Books is located in the old station buildings and houses a huge selection of second hand books. Teas, coffees and ‘Barter Bikkies’ can be bought very reasonably and customers are able to relax in front of open fires in cold weather. Parking is available, but space is limited. (20min)

Alnwick Castle and Garden are open to the public. Meals and snacks are available in the garden and in the Tree House Café.

Find out more about Craster by following these links:

Craster Living History A fascinating account of Craster by the people who live here.

Northumberland Cam Photographs of Craster

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