A Guide To Camping In Bamburgh: Best Campsites, Wild Camping & More!

Bamburgh is a tranquil town situated on the beautiful coast of Northumberland. This region in northern England is actually the least densely populated county in England, and so you can be sure to enjoy peace and quiet along with a sense of serenity when visiting. In fact that’s partly why holidaymakers come back here year after year.

The coastal village of Bamburgh is particularly well-known for its magnificent castle, pristine beach, and sand dunes that make way to beautiful walking trails. Alongside local eateries on idyllic street corners this place is also famous among golfers due to its scenic golf courses.

As Bamburgh is home to some spectacular natural scenery, it’s little surprise camping in Bamburgh has become so popular.

And if you’re planning your own Bamburgh camping holiday you’re in luck! Why? Well, we know this area like the back of our hand, so right here we share with you our favourite campsites in Bamburgh, the rules around wild camping in Bamburgh, and much more.

So read on to begin your Bamburgh camping adventure!

The Four Best Campsites Near Bamburgh For Fun, Views & Adventure!

1. Budle Farm Campsite

Budle Farm is situated just a mile north of the village of Bamburgh, so you get to enjoy the convenience of nearby services while still being situated beside the gorgeous Budle Bay which has some of the country’s most incredible sunsets.

This rustic campsite is situated right on the shoreline and is perfect for those looking for a tranquil atmosphere where you can truly immerse yourself in nature.

The campsite has spaces for touring caravans and motorhomes, and you just pick where you want to camp on the field. While you could stay here with a tent, there are no toilets or showers at this campsite – only taps for drinking water – so this site is best for motorhomes and caravans.

So why recommend a campsite with so few facilities? Well if staying here you have direct access to a private beach, the sunsets and sunrises are unrivalled in the county, and it’s just a short 30-minute walk to Bamburgh. It’s also just £15 per night for your pitch and there’s no extra costs involved – it doesn’t matter if you take your dog, children, or set up an awning. Just turn up, pay, and enjoy!

What’s Close By

Bamburgh is just a short walk away from the campsite and there’s plenty of restaurants, pubs, and activities to enjoy there. Including a museum, castle and a golf course.

Belford Hall is a just short distance from the campsite too and is an 18th-century mansion. For heritage-lovers, it’s a must-visit! The mansion has a rich history to discover and you can immerse yourself in the different styles of architecture there. The mansion itself is situated by a lake and offers a rustic atmosphere and fantastic photo opportunities.

When discovering the nearby village of Belford you might want to visit the family friendly pub, ‘The Salmon Inn’. They have some great local ales on offer as well as homemade lunches prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

There’s also another family pub & restaurant called ’The Witch & Worm’ which has delicious food and drinks from March to October. So, if you’re looking for a quick food stop, this is a great spot.

Address: B1342, Bamburgh NE69 7AL

2. Beadnell Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Beadnell Bay Camping and Caravanning Club is situated by the sand dunes of the North Northumberland Heritage Coast within gorgeous surroundings of sea and countryside.

This is such an ideal location for a getaway as from the campsite you can admire beautiful views across the coast as well as views of the Cheviot Hills! The surrounding dunes are are a haven for birdlife as well, so you will get to enjoy some wildlife spotting if staying here.

There are also a variety of outdoor activities available in the area including walking, cycling, and watersports like windsurfing and kayaking!

There are 43 non electric grass pitches, 60 electric grass pitches, and 40 hardstanding pitches available, so there’s plenty of choices. Facilities are a little limited, although there are toilets, showers, a kids playpark, and a laundry at your disposal. There is also a friendly pub nearby too.

This Bamburgh camping option is definitely a fantastic way to immerse yourself in countryside life. Pets are also allowed, which is an added bonus.

What’s Close By

You must visit and walk the Northumberland Coast AONB (’Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’) as this area is particularly well-known for its beaches, dunes, sea caves, and secluded islands. The environment is important for thousands of plants and animals, and you’ll find lots of birdlife and marine life living in this special part of England.

Some other popular and interesting activities to do in the AONB are horseriding and star gazing. Alongside star gazing, this area is actually one of the best locations in England to spot the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) due to the low light pollution and clear skies you get here.

Take the opportunity to visit the magnificent Dunstanburgh Castle too if visiting. It stands boldly on a far off headland by the sea.

There is also the Dustanburgh Castle Golf Course near to this campsite, where you can tee off with beautiful views and fresh seaside air.

Address: Chathill NE67 5BX

3. Glororum Holiday Park

Glororum Holiday Park is located just a mile from Bamburgh, and is the closest touring and caravan park from the village. This place has beautiful views of the Castle and Cheviot Hills.

What we think is particularly special about this place is the fact you can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, yet are still within a stone’s throw of Bamburgh’s services.

The campsite has spaces for touring caravans and motorhomes, including hard standing pitches, and has electric hook ups too. The pitches come with views towards Bamburgh Castle, or alternatively you can turn to admire the gorgeous sunsets over the Cheviots. Pets are also welcome which is an added bonus, especially as there’s so many good dog walks close by.

The facilities of this campsite are excellent too. There’s upgraded toilet and shower facilities, as well as a central heated laundrette complete with washing machines, tumble dryers and ironing facilities. There is even a dishwashing and a modern food preparation area.

Kids can be adventurous in the on-site play park, and there is even a skateboard park to try out!

What’s Close By

As the campsite is situated next to Bamburgh, you’ll want to make the most of its attractions such as visiting the majestic Bamburgh Castle and the village’s stunning beach.

To immerse yourself even more in the history of Bamburgh, you should visit the Grace Darling Museum. The museum commemorates the life of Victorian Britain’s greatest heroine, Grace Darling, and guides you through the events of the boat rescue and people she saved back on 7 September 1838.

For any golf enthusiasts, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club is a great option as it features some stunning views of Lindisfarne, the Farne Islands, the Cheviots and Bamburgh Castle. This is a must-visit if you want to enjoy some scenic views alongside great golfing.

Address: Glororum, Bamburgh NE69 7AW

4. Springhill Farm Holiday Accommodation

Springhill Farm Holiday Accommodation is a campsite located just 1 mile from Seahouses and 3 miles from Bamburgh.

This Bambugh camping option is especially serene as it’s surrounded in countryside with incredible views towards the Farne Islands, Bamburgh Castle and the Cheviot Hills. You can find empty beaches in the immediate surroundings of the campsite, and scenic routes for cycling and walking. Staying here is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a taste of rural life by the sea.

You can select from a range of accommodation from caravan & motorhome sites to cozy cottages and lodges – there are even glamping wigwams available! Pets are also welcome at this campsite, and there is even a dog walking area within the site so your four-legged friends don’t have to go far to enjoy their daily walk. Unfortunately they don’t accept tents though.

Facilities wise you can find everything you’d need for a comfortable stay, including toilets, showers and a washing-up area. An option for laundry & drying is also at your disposal. Kids will also enjoy the campsite’s play area.

What’s Close By

Visit the nearby colourful fishing village of Seahouses that is famous for its stunning harbour. Roam around the village and immerse yourself in the spectacular beaches and enjoy the many wildlife spotting opportunities. This village has a long history with fishing, so naturally you can expect to finds loads of tasty seafood there, including the obligatory fresh fish and chips!

The campsite is also a good base for visiting the Farne Islands. This is a scenic group of islands off Northumberland’s coast in the North Sea. The islands are a fabulous opportunity to enjoy wildlife as they’re home to many species of birds including puffins! Regular boats run to the islands from March till October from Seahouses harbour.

And if staying at this campsite you should take the opportunity to visit Alnwick Castle too. It’s known for its medieval architecture and tranquil surrounding gardens. It’s a favourite of visitors because the castle is famous for its appearance in Harry Potter as well as in Transformers! So, for any movie enthusiasts, this is a great place to stop by.

Address: Springhill Farm, Seahouses NE68 7UR

The Best Time To Visit Bamburgh

The best time of year to visit Bamburgh for warm-weather activities is from early July to late August. During this time, the temperature varies between an average high of 17-20 Celsius and low of 11 Celsius. Those are perfect temperatures for walking, hiking and exploring – although it can get quite windy.

The winter, on the other hand, can be quite cold and very windy! The temperature varies from November to March between an average low of 2 Celsius and high of 6 Celsius. While the weather conditions can be harsh at times, the rolling countryside, local wildlife and winter scenery are still gorgeous.

However, to avoid getting into trouble it’s best to plan and prepare ahead, especially if hiking or camping during the winter months. Should you get in trouble while in the hills and are able to use your mobile phone, dial ’999’, ask for ’Police’, and then ’Mountain Rescue’.

Bamburgh offers some exciting annual events to combine with your camping holiday as well. And planning your holiday around these events can add a whole new experience to your vacation.

Just a short ride away from Bamburgh is the town of Rothbury, and the town hosts the Rothbury Traditional Music Festival every July. So, if you’re a fan of folk music, this is the place to go!

Another interesting festival happening in Northumberland is The Glendale Show at Wooler. This one-day agricultural event happens in August and involves judging of animals as well as entertainment, live music and games. It’s an important date in the rural calendar in this part of England, and a great place to immerse yourself in Northumberland country life.

Wild Camping In Bamburgh: Everything You Need To Know!

DISCLAIMER: Below we give general advice, but we always recommend staying in an official campsite. If you choose to go wild camping/dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where you’re planning on camping for your own safety.

Although wild camping is illegal in Bamburgh, people still do it. It is illegal to camp on privately owned land but if you seek permission from the landowner, then it is legal.

People have been wild camping for years in Northumberland though, and it is sometimes tolerated when campers respect the land, choose a discreet area, and put up their tent at nightfall and take it down at the crack of dawn. It may also be tolerated when campers are hiking a long distance trail and camping at the same time.

Although that said, wild camping on the Northumberland Coast is discouraged because of the fragile ecosystem there.

If you can’t be convinced to stay in a campsite and are determined to wild camp, our advise is to stick to the guidelines below so as to be as

If we can’t convince you to stay in a campsite and are determined to wild camp, then we would advise sticking to the following guidelines in order to be as thoughtful as possible:

• It is advised that you pitch your tent discretely in the same spot for only one night and preferably in a remote area. Campers are advised to not camp in or around settlements, farms or on cultivated land.

• We advise campers to put up their tent at nightfall and take it down at the crack of dawn. Go for a discreet tent that Campers should set up their tent at dusk, and take it down at dawn. A tent that is discreet, blends in with the landscape, and pitches quickly is best. Therefore a lightweight walking and hiking tent like this one would be a great investment for someone planning to wild camp.

• If you are walking a main trail, make sure you choose to camp in a place that won’t be in any other hiker’s or walker’s way.

• When wild camping you must never make a campfire as it can damage the environment and create fires. For cooking, use a storm cooker that are virtually indestructible. Portable solar ovens, like this one by GoSun, are also a good fuel-less option.

• Take any rubbish with you, and leave your camping spot the way you found it.

Bamburgh Camping: Some Of Our Favourite Walks To Try Out

Northumberland Coast Path

If you’re looking for a real challenge then the Northumberland Coast Path passes through Bamburgh and is a mammoth 62 mile route! From Berwick-upon-Tweed to Cresswell, the route follows the Northumberland Coast.

If you don’t want to do the whole walk then walk some of it and then use the bus to get back.

For example, you could walk Bamburgh to Belford via Budle Point and Spindlestone Mill. This walk takes 7 miles, and if you wish to go further, the walk continues to Fenwick via St. Cuthbert’s Cave which is also another 7 miles. You can then catch the bus back from the A1 at Fenwick.

Bamburgh to Newton-by-the-Sea via Seahouses and Beadnell is a 10 mile walk following the Northumberland Coast Path which will take you all the way through the farmlands to Seahouses. It’s also possible to walk along the beach, if the tide is out and you’re careful and quick. A fun way to wrap up the walk is to visit the local micro-brewery at Ship Inn. You can catch the bus 418 back from High Newton.

Another good one (and also a bit shorter) is Craster via Dunstaburgh Castle which is another 3.7 miles south of Newton.

These walks are particularly scenic as they feature magnificent views of the coast and lots of opportunities to admire the local wildlife.

Short Local Walks

If you’re looking for shorter walks, then why not take the circular walk at Bamburgh that has some lovely views along the way.

First make your way towards the beach at the far side of the cricket field down past the corner of the castle. Then, you can walk along the coast and back.

Or, should the tide be out, you could also head north along the beach until you come to a painted animal on the rocks. From there you can go in the direction of the dunes and back along the golf course road at the Wynding.

Four Fun Things To Do In Bamburgh

1. Spend a Day at the Beach

As Bamburgh is situated on the coast of Northumberland, you get to enjoy the best that beach life offers!

Take a walk along the beautiful coastline, or enjoy watersports like surfing. Bamburgh Castle Beach is particularly well-known for surf due to its northerly and easterly swell that creates waves that are up to two feet bigger than other beaches in the county! Luckily it isn’t a steep beach, which is convenient for getting in and out of the water.

There are plenty of other beaches in the area as well.

Seahouses Beach lies approximately mid-way between Bamburgh Castle and Beadnell and is a gorgeous sandy beach stretching north of the harbour and is backed by idyllic dunes. You could also take a boat ride from the harbour at Seahouses to spot dolphins, porpoises and even whales!

2. Visit the Castles

Alongside the castles of Alnwick and Bamburgh, the country of Northumberland actually has more castles than any other county within England! There are over 70 castle sites to explore, so why not see how many you can find.

3. Go Walking

Bamburgh offers some great trails for different abilities – be it countryside walks to forest hikes, as well as to more challenging mountainous hikes or the huge Northumberland Coastal Path that we mentioned above.

Given that Bamburgh is ideally situated on the coast, you’ll also get to enjoy some of the best sea scenery in England as you walk.

4. Go Golfing

Bamburgh and Northumberland have a lot to offer for golf lovers. You’ll be golfing on world class courses with stunning sea views and castles.

And with over 30 golf courses in the region of Northumberland, there’s definitely plenty to choose from!

Camping In Bamburgh: Free Scavenger Hunt Game

If you’re looking to keep children happy while camping in Bamburgh – or you fancy having some fun for yourself – then we’ve created a printable scavenger hunt game!

Save the image and print it out, then tick off what you find and achieve during your camping holiday.

The game encourages our fellow campers to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities. Have fun!