Craster to Low Newton coastal walk
Enjoy magnificent views and miles of sandy bay on this circular coastal walk. Embark from the fishing village of Craster, pass by the mighty ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and the long sweep of Embleton Sands, before reaching Low Newton by the Sea.
Seasonal highlights
A wonderful walk all year round, with dune flowers blooming in spring, paddling (or swimming for the brave) in summer, migrating birds in the autumn, and beautiful light and empty paths in winter.
Total steps: 9
Total steps: 9
Start point
Craster Quarry Car Park , grid ref: NU256197
Step 1
Start in Craster Quarry Car Park and walk towards the harbour. Turn left down Dunstanburgh Road towards Dunstanburgh Castle. The path takes you through farmland with the rocky shoreline to your right.
Step 2
Continue along the route past Dunstanburgh Castle, or pop in for a visit. National Trust members visit the castle for free.
Step 3
At the base of the castle, turn left and follow the route around the inland side of the castle, with the cliff on your right.
Step 4
Pass a golf course on your left and descend onto the beach. Stroll to the far end of Embleton Bay and cross Embleton Burn as it trickles into the sea.
Step 5
Continue along the bay towards the harbour at Newton Haven.
Step 6
Climb up from the beach to Low Newton's picturesque three-sided square. Continue inland via a track that starts behind the village square, cottages and boat park.
Step 7
Walk alongside the sand dunes and through a little woodland for 450yd (400m), until you reach two wildlife hides that look out over the waters at Newton Pool nature reserve.
Step 8
Continue on this path towards Dunstan Steads. Dunstanburgh's precipitous cliffs loom large again as you pass the golf course.
Step 9
After the castle, climb up to your right on a higher level track back to Craster.
End point
Craster, grid ref: NU258201
Trail map
More near here
Embleton and Newton Links
Breath-taking stretches of silver sands surrounded by wildlife-rich dunes
Get in touch
Low Newton by the Sea, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 3EW
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Walking in the North East
From a trek through the largest area of ancient woodland in Northumberland to a walk in the footsteps of the Romans along Hadrian's Wall, there are some amazing places to walk in the North East.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Things to do at Embleton and Newton Links
Head to Embleton and Newton Links to discover the 18th-century fishing hamlet of Low Newton, scramble across a natural rock harbour and sandy beach, and spot wildlife at Newton Pool Nature Reserve.
Visiting the Northumberland Coast with your dog
Dogs can really stretch their legs on the long sandy beaches of the Northumberland Coast. Find out what facilities are available, where you can walk your dog and seasonal restrictions.
Top tips for coastal walks
Get safety tips for walking by the coast, including the essential clothing and equipment to take with you and what to do before you set out.