Alnwick, Craster & Dunstanburgh
This route features some of the best coastline, castles and cycling that Northumberland has to offer! As well as the iconic castles at Dunstanburgh and Alnwick, you will ride past beautiful quiet beaches and the cute harbour villages of Craster, Alnmouth and Boulmer. Taking approx. 3 hours to complete, it also includes great local pubs, eateries and coffee spots along the way.
This route benefits from multiple long sections on well-maintained, easy off-road cycle paths. Much of the route is on quiet country roads. There is a short section with busier traffic between Rennington & Alnwick (approx 15 mins of the ride) and through Alnwick town.
Check out our interactive route guide, must-see highlights, and on-route food & drink recommendations below!
Craster harbour & village, which is mid-way through the route. Famous for Craster Kippers and home to the Jolly Fisherman pub.
Key info for this ride: ~27 miles/ 43 km round trip. Start at any point of the route (we recommend Alnwick, Alnmouth, or Embleton).
Approx. 3 hours ride round trip, at a medium pace.
Quiet country roads and multiple long sections on well-maintained, easy off-road cycle paths. One section with busier traffic from Rennington to Alnwick (approx 15 mins of the route), which is not recommended for smaller kids.
So many great food & drink stops to enjoy along the way on this route! We’ve mentioned our favourites below.
We’re happy to deliver your bikes for this route. Just add ‘delivery & pick-up’ when you book.
ROUTE MAP: 
Click to check out our interactive route map here(we also provide free easy-to-use printed route maps with your bike)
Top Highlights on the route:Dunstanburgh Castle: Iconic 14th century castle on the coast with breath-taking views.
Alnmouth Harbour: One of the most picture-postcard places in Northumberland. Beautiful small harbour with colourful houses along the estuary and a sweet high street with local shops. Plus a tiny museum in the old fisherman’s hut.
Boulmer Village: Traditional fishing village that has kept its old-fashioned charm. Quiet sandy beach.
Sugar Sands Beach: Deserted ‘hidden’ beaches and peaceful coves all along the quiet cycle path from Boulmer to Howick .
Craster Tower Gateway: Built in the 1700s, the gateway provides a dramatic entrance to Craster - and an excellent photo stop!
Craster Harbour: Sweet fishing harbour and village with real Northumbrian charm. Famous for smoked Craster Kippers.
Alnwick Castle & Gardens: Two of the must-see Northumberland attractions in the centre of Alnwick. Our favourite views of the castle are from the old Lion’s Bridge on The Peth (just past Walkergate).
Where to eat & drink along the route:Jolly Fisherman, Craster: Friendly, bustling pub by the sea with good food, beer garden and a warm log fire. Award winning seafood.
The Arch, near Craster: Cute coffee shop with local cakes & goodies. Located at Craster Gateway with lovely outdoor seating.
Fishing Boat Inn, Boulmer: A proper pub in the heart of Boulmer village with views out to sea.
Orangery at The Tempus: Beautiful country estate with a stunning stylish restaurant and great food. The estate’s quiet back entrance road connects to this route directly (no A1 crossing). During the summer the Tempus Tipi also offers wood-fired pizzas, live music and a relaxed spot for outdoor drinks (Fridays & Saturdays only, check opening hours here)
We hope you have a lovely day exploring Alnwick, Craster and the Northumbrian coastline on the bikes! Any questions please get in touch.
Alnwick Castle, from the Lion’s Bridge. Home of Harry Potter - and the Duke & Duchess of Northumberland!
