One of the prettiest Northumberland villages lies just north of Amble on the coastal route, Warkworth has been a long standing favourite of mine. Steeped in history sitting on a loop of the River Coquet, the village is looked over by the magnificent ruins of the medieval Warkworth Castle.
First documented in the 12th century the castle has a rich history, Warkworth castle played a key role in the log running war between England and Scotland. Throughout the castle you’ll notice the Percy family Lion badge, the castle was granted to the family in 1322, the Percy family held enormous power in the north. They also owned nearby Alnwick castle where Percy family descendants still live today!
The cross shaped keep of the castle is still intact and a climb to the top gives the most immense views across the local area. Once home to the famous ‘Harry Hotspur’, son of the first Earl of Northumberland, and a feared warrior.
You’ll find events here during the year, there is currently an installation of sculptures in the castle grounds but sometimes there are medieval reenactments and items on display it is worth checking out their website to see what is upcoming. Find the castle website here Warkworth Castle
The castle is currently only open at weekends, but will be open for the summer season soon. An adult ticket is £8.50 and a child £4.50 with concessions and family tickets available. There is parking directly at the castle, or there is a car park at the bottom of Castle Street by the church.
At the opposite end of the village you’ll find the 12th century church St Lawrence, just by the river. It served not only as a place of worship but as a safe place for villagers during dangerous times in history. As you walk around the village you’ll hear the church bells ringing with its 100ft spire its a beautiful building and definitely worth a visit if you are in the village.
The main street, Castle Street is home to some lovely independent local businesses to discover. The Greenhouse is an Aladdin’s cave of gifts, homewares and quirky items you won’t find anywhere else I love a browse around here. Grey’s further up the street has some stunning jewellery, scarves and many other items I love how each purchase here is packaged like a five star boutique their items make wonderful gifts. You’ll find Cabosse, the chocolate shop hard to resist!
Bertram’s is a firm favourite of mine to stop for a bite to eat or cake and coffee. With an outdoor courtyard too and dog friendly it is the perfect place to stop when exploring the village. Their cakes are to die for, with a huge selection as well as an extensive breakfast and lunch menu.
You’ll find several pubs in the village, The Hermitage Inn, Mason’s Arms and Sun Inn Hotel. All with lovely food menus and all dog friendly too, always a popular stop with visitors and locals alike.
A wander along. the river here in Warkworth is one of my favourite things to do, especially with a takeaway coffee in hand taking in the peaceful surroundings. Wether it’s watching the ducks in the water, seeing the changing leaves along the riverside (Autumn is simply stunning here!) or watching paddle boarders go past while taking a seat at one of the any benches dotted along I highly recommend a look.
Wander far enough along the river and you’ll fine the Hermitage, hidden in the rocks and only accessible by boat and built to be a dwelling for a priest built into the cliff face. With an altar and rooms built inside it is open during the summer season to take the boat ride across and explore for yourself. Tickets are available to buy when you purchase Castle tickets on the website Hermitage info and tickets
Warkworth also has its own beach, with miles of unspoilt sands a bit of a hidden treasure. The beach car park is just over the bridge and to the right as you climb the hill you’ll not be disappointed by the stunning views here.
Warkworth’s main care park is by the church and is free to park, although spaces are limited and often fill up fast. There is more parking along the riverside if you take the cut right next to the church leading to the river.
A stroll through one of the prettiest villages in our region is high on my list of Northumberland recommendations for sure.
