There are so many great places to eat in Northumberland and I should know as I have tried many of them, well someone has to! What better than after an invigorating coastal walk or a visit to a historical site to work up an appetite whilst exploring. Northumberland is a spectacular place to visit and you really are spoilt for great locally sourced food in the area. There are so many local producers and independent retailers you will find here whether coast or country. From traditional tearooms to seaside cafes, or even some top nosh from many of the catering vans dotted along the coastal path serving amazing local seafood and baked goods. Here are some of my favourite places to eat . Be great to hear if you have visited any of them too or maybe you have a recommendation of your own.
SALTWATER CAFE, BEADNELL
So you've just finished an epic walk along the coastal path and ready for a refuel in Beadnell. Then you need to head for the Saltwater Cafe. If you are an early bird like me you will enjoy a good breakfast and you are certain to get one here. Whether it's a full Northumbrian or my own favourite Eggs Benedict there is something for everyone, vegan and gluten free options available. Note breakfast is served until 11am. If its lunch or dinner you're looking for they have that covered too (note dog friendly until 5pm). Lunches include ploughmans, crab sandwiches and of course the local delicacy of ham & pease pudding served in floury Northumbrian baps. Whilst dinner is a brand new concept where you can enjoy multiple small plates such as smoked haddock fish cakes, monkfish scampi or beef bon bons showcasing some of the best locally caught seafood on the market.
Saltwater Cafe can get very busy during the peak season and summer months so be prepared to wait or book ahead. For opening hours and bookings visit
Saltwater Cafe, The Wynding, Beadnell NE67 5AS
BEADNELL TOWERS BEADNELL
Beadnell Towers also located on The Wynding, Beadnell welcomes you to bring your friends, family and even the dog, whether you've come straight off the beach or meeting friends or family for a catch up make yourself at home at one of the best boutique hotels in Northumberland. The 'Towers' offer breakfast, drop in for lunch, go for dinner or even stay the night. Fantastic food featuring the best of local ingredients whilst blending with food heritage, and rather than a fixed style are led by seasonality and availability of local ingredients, with provenance central to their menus. Whether its the Beadnell Burger with Wooler's triple cooked chips or the Northumbrian Fish Pie, there's something for everyone, and even a four course set menu for the kids for £9.95. My personal favourite meal at Beadnell Towers is their Sunday lunch, slices of thickly cut meat, homemade yorkshire puddings, mash and roast potatoes with the biggest jug of gravy ever which makes me very happy... northern girls love their gravy. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free options are all available too. Booking is advisable especially during summer season.
Beadnell Towers, The Wynding, Beadnell NE67 5AY | 01665 721 211
HOOK FISH & CHIPS SEAHOUSES
Well of course any visit to the coast wouldn't be complete without a chippy tea, and whilst there are many available in the local area I have to say I really enjoy Hook in Seahouses, recently reopened and given a new look (previously Pinnacles now under different ownership) it serves traditional fish and chips with a modern twist, both in their restaurant or to take away to enjoy the harbour views close by. In addition to traditional fish and chips there other options available that include vegan gluten free and a kids menu.
Hook, Main Street, Seahouses | 01665 720 708
COPPER KETTLE TEAROOMS BAMBURGH
Heading out of Seahouses and a short drive or very pleasant walk up the road towards the very pretty village of Bamburgh and of course the home to Bamburgh Castle and the RNLI Grace Darling Museum is one of the finest Tea Rooms in the country, The Copper Kettle Tea Rooms. Annabel and her team are always there with a warm welcome for you and your fur family, and dogs are very welcome with a patio area in the courtyard available. Serving freshly prepared and home-cooked food their cream scones and afternoon teas are legendary and another firm favourite of mine is the apple cake (vegan and gluten free) served with local teas and coffees from Pumphreys. A delicious menu which changes seasonally to reflect local produce and also caters for special dietary requirements. As I say my personal recommendation is the afternoon tea just don't plan to do much afterwards, as they are very filling. maybe grab a deckchair and just head to the beach which is a short stroll away and sleep it off or take in the magnificent views, well you are on holiday! Note the tearooms are very busy during the summer season, so book in advance to avoid disappointment or take out is available too.
Copper Kettle Tea Rooms, 21 Front Street, Bamburgh NE69 7BW | 01668 214 315
THE WHITTLING HOUSE ALNMOUTH
If you're visiting Alnmouth then the Whittling House is a must, whether breakfast, lunch or dinner. A delightful country styled restaurant with comfortable interiors and 10 characterful bedrooms and pet friendly rooms available, the Whittling House provides a relaxed mixture of locally sourced seasonal dishes reflecting its coastal position. Breakfast is served daily and available until 10.00am weekdays and 10.30am weekends where you can treat yourself to local Craster Kippers or a full Northumbrian breakfast. Emphasis here is on local produce from seafood to some of the best Northumberland butchers, the Sunday lunch is a personal recommendation and though more expensive than others the quality of the sirloin is exceptional. Other dishes include Ox Cheek Wellington, Trout Nicoise and a traditional Northumbrian Pan Haggerty. So whether you are feasting with friends or looking for a cosy couples corner the Whittling House has every occasion covered.
The Whittling House, 24-25 Northumberland Street, Alnmouth NE66 2RA | 01665 4630001
Eating out in Northumberland…
Regardless of your budget or taste, you’ll find plentiful options for a delicious meal out in Northumberland. Whether it’s pub grub, a romantic setting, a family-friendly atmosphere or a fine-dining experience that you’re after, Northumberland has got it covered. These are just a few of my recommendations to get you started please feel free to let me know yours too.
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