Northumberland boasts some of Britain's most stunning beaches, yet they're frequently overshadowed by neighbouring coastal destinations.

Embleton Bay is undoubtedly one of those locations that nestles quietly within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and provides a tranquil retreat throughout the year. Considerably less commercialised, it delivers a sense of serenity for those seeking peaceful strolls, gentle swims and, naturally, a glimpse of the magnificent castle from the shore below.

The extensive expanse of golden sand remains largely untouched and framed by stunning dunes, with minimal evidence of human presence. Indeed, it's so cherished by guests it was crowned the finest beach in the UK back in 2017, and visitors consistently describe it as a "hidden gem".

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There's a wealth of wildlifeinhabiting the bay and its surroundings, from species like bloody cranesbill and eyebright to wild flora such as thyme and vetch.

Moreover, the cliffs perched above the bay serve as a nesting site for numerous seabirds, making it the perfect location for birdwatching.

Embleton Bay is dominated by the striking Dunstanburgh Castle, which stands in weathered ruins with a heritage stretching back to 1313.

The remains can be accessed on foot from Craster, a nearby village within walking distance, taking you on a peaceful 1.3-mile gentle ramble.

Visitors can explore the site as it's safeguarded and managed by the National Trust, together with English Heritage, who assist in preserving its heritage.

The entire ruins can be explored, from its soaring walls to its panoramic sea views, where it plunges down on the northern side.

For those keen to venture slightly beyond the bay, the far northern tip of the shore leads into the delightful village of Low Newton, which houses a handful of pubs, shops and its own stretch of sand.

Peacefully cut off from the outside world, it provides an ideal respite during your stroll, with a rich heritage of its own, including a beloved pub that has stood since the 18th century.

A beachgoer said on TripAdvisor: "What a little beauty this turned out to be. Yes, parking is difficult, so if you have mobility issues, it's not the easiest to get to, but the view, the clear sea and golden sand made this place a must-visit and a multiple-area visit. We went back of an evening and watched some locals surfing, enjoying life and nature's gifts."

Another noted: "Probably one of the most beautiful bays anywhere in the world. A visit to Northumberland is not complete without a walk here. From Dunstan Stead's walk towards Dunstanburgh Castle, turn back to face the bay and follow the path down onto the beach, where you get a view of the little beach houses in the dunes."

Ideal for families, the bay is also welcoming to dogs, meaning your four-legged companions can tag along for your Northumberland escapades. During their visit, many visitors opt to enjoy various pursuits that the expansive beach accommodates, such as kitesurfing, exploring rock pools and windsurfing.