It’s a new year which means new beginnings. Have you made any New Year’s resolutions? Perhaps a promise to get out of the house more? For our first blog post of 2020, we’ve created a list of beaches up and down the East coast to help get you out exploring.
A walk with a bit of sea air does you a world of good!
Bamburgh Castle to Seahouses
Bamburgh is a lovely coastal village in Northumberland and features a vast stretch of coastline set against Bamburgh Castle. The Castle is over 1000 years old and was home to a long line of English kings. This notable landmark can be spotted as the backdrop in many films such as MacBeth and Steven Spielberg’s The BFG!
Whether you fancy warming up with some hot chocolate or tucking into a Sunday roast, Bamburgh has some great spots for eating. In the summer months pop into Wyndenwell‘s and treat yourself to their award-winning ice cream!
You can follow the beach for 3 miles along to Seahouses. Once there, why not go for a game of mini golf at The Bunker? Or chance your luck in the arcade? Grab a poke of chips from Neptune’s but watch out for the local seagulls!
Cheswick Sands
One of the biggest beaches on the Northumbrian coastline is Cheswick Sands. Climb the dunes and emerge onto the 3 mile long beach. To the north, the coastline merges with Cocklawburn beach and to the south, joining with Goswick beach.
On a clear day, there are panoramic views of Holy Island, Lindisfarne Castle, and Bamburgh Castle.
Coldingham Bay to St Abbs
Over the border into Scotland you’ll find Coldingham Bay, lined with colourful beach huts and rockpools for exploring. It’s a popular spot for surfers all year round. Why not hire a wetsuit and board from St Vedas Surf Shop and get into the water?
The beach is sheltered by Homeli Knoll to the south – climb to the top for stunning surrounding views. Or take the coastal path over to the small fishing village, St Abbs in the north. Pop into Ebb Carrs Cafe while you’re there for something eat and drink. You might struggle to find a seat outside as it gets pretty busy with dog walkers when the sun is shining.
Seacliff to Tantallon Castle
Just 5 miles east of North Berwick is Seacliff beach with surrounding views of Tantallon Castle, the Bass Rock, and the remains of Seacliff House. There is also a harbour carved into the red sandstone cliffs which claims to be the smallest in Scotland! This beach attracts surfers, canoers and horse riders all throughout the year.
Warm up afterwards with something to eat and drink at Drift. This proves to be a very popular spot so if it’s busy, head into North Berwick. Grab an ice cream at Alandas Gelateria or treat yourself at Bostock Bakery – the vanilla doughnuts are delicious!
Yellowcraigs Beach
A few miles north of Dirleton, lies Yellowcraigs a small beach with views over to the lighthouse on Fidra Island – the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
There are several paths running through the surrounding grasslands and forest, which is very popular with dog walkers and horse riders. There is also a BBQ site for those warm, summer nights and a pirate themed play area for the kids. A little something for everyone!
Portobello Beach
Further up the eastern coast, just 3 miles from Edinburgh you’ll find Portobello beach! This 2 mile long strip of sand is home to the annual Big Beach Busk, and believe it or not, international volleyball competitions!
Has all that sea air got you feeling peckish? Have a wander down the Victorian promenade filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants. I would recommend visiting Bross Bagels for authentic NY bagels filled with delicious deli fillings. Yum!
Porty’s bustling high street is home to many independent shops such as 239 The High Street, one of our Wonky stockists! Make sure to pop in and pay John Paul a visit. As well as a range of our hats, the shop also has a fabulous collection of Harris Tweed clothing and accessories!
Beside the seaside
This is just a small selection of our favourite beaches on the east coast! Hopefully we’ve inspired you to pull on your hat and boots and get outside! If you’ve got your Wonky on, make sure you a snap a picture and tag us! @wonkywoolies #wonkywoolies
