From the beauty of Bamburgh to the shores of Seaburn, these are some of the best cafes, pubs and restaurants along the North East coastline to indulge in local produce and soak up the charm of coastal dining.
The Fish Shack - Amble
The Fish Shack is a snug, shabby-chic style restaurant in Amble. Purpose-built from an old boat, it overlooks the River Coquet and Warkworth Castle in the distance. I’ve been multiple times and its seafood dishes are always spot on, especially the fish and chips. It’s a popular eatery that’s previously welcomed the Hairy Bikers and Harrison Ford through its doors, so pre-book if you can – we’ve learnt our lesson the hard way!
The Beach House - Whitley Bay
Laidback, beachy decor? Check. Golden sand across the road? Check. Outdoor terrace adorned with festoon lighting? Check. The Beach House is a fabulous cafe in Whitley Bay serving a wide variety of brunch dishes. We went along one Saturday morning and it was packed with diners of all ages. I went for the brioche French toast with berries, a dollop of Greek yoghurt and runny honey, while my boyfriend tucked into a full English washed down with a Dubai-inspired pistachio hot chocolate. Delish!
The Jolly Fisherman - Craster
Have you even been to Craster if you haven’t been to this pub and restaurant?! The Jolly Fisherman is renowned for it crab sandwiches – and they really are worth the jaunt to this charming Northumberland fishing village. It’s such a lovely spot, with tables directly overlooking the sea waves crashing below, and the place to go if you love fresh locally-sourced fish and seafood. Don’t forget to pair your visit with a windswept walk to Dunstanburgh Castle.
The Joiners Arms - Newton-by-the-Sea
The Joiners Arms is a gastro pub and inn located in Newton-by-the-Sea and it’s a sister venue to boutique hotel, Newton Hall. Exuding those rustic and familiar village pub vibes, it serves everything from hearty pies, burgers and steak frites to Sunday lunch and a chippy tea. It’s also a top choice for a tipple or bite to eat before or after visiting Low Newton beach, which is just a short drive away.
Blacks Corner - Seaburn
Blacks Corner recently unveiled a new wine and cheese bar in Fenwick department store, but if you want to visit one of its OG eateries, you’ll need to head to Seaburn. Housed inside a beautifully restored tram shelter, Blacks Corner is brimming with elegant touches. When we visited, I couldn’t resist a stack of fluffy pancakes with berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s also perfectly placed for a lovely walk along Roker beach afterwards.
Bamburgh Walled Garden - Bamburgh
Bamburgh Walled Garden is a cute garden cafe, outdoor playground and garden situated in the heart of Bamburgh – regularly voted as one of the best places to live in the UK. Tuck into its breakfast menu until 10.30am or wait for lunch, served from midday. On my visit, we arrived during this ‘in-betweeny’ bit so decided to just warm up with a latte and hot choc. There’s also a scrumptious selection of sweet treats and cakes, available all day.
The Landing - Beadnell
Beadnell Bay is one of my favourite beaches in Northumberland, especially at sunset. And The Landing, just a few minutes’ walk from this beautiful stretch of sand, is one of my favourite coastal eateries. I’ve been here for breakfast, lunch, a hot chocolate pitstop and an evening meal – and around the clock, this bar and kitchen never disappoints! I love its fluffy, puffy, doughy crusted pizzas. And for a cosier laidback vibe, check out its tipi.
Like this post? You might be interested in reading my article on where to find the dreamiest hot chocolates in the region and the best coastal brunch spots within half an hour of Newcastle.
For more inspiration on places to eat and drink locally, follow me on Instagram at @nclsparkles.
