Warkworth

Warkworth in Northumberland

Warkworth, with its long history as a fortified village built on a tight loop of the River Coquet close to the river's mouth is a quaint and picturesque village of roughly 1,500 residents. Taking into account the early needs to provide security, this long-standing village was settled in a defensive position and 4 attractions stand out from the others: The Warkworth Castle, St. Lawrence Church, the Hermitage, and the Norman Bridge. One of the jewels in the Northumberland crown, this scenic village remains today unspoiled by massive tourism and reckless modern developments.

Located just outside of the Northeastern most section of the Northumberland National Park, one of only fifteen National Parks in all of the UK, day trips from Warkworth to this national treasure are commonplace. Offering a wonderful mix of natural bogs, heather and meadows, rolling hills, lakes cut by glaciers from the Ice Age, and rich, dense forest, you will definitely want to spend some time hiking cycling, and fishing this pure place of wondrous beauty.

With a great view of Warkworth's downtown area from the dominating and massive medieval keep of Warkworth Castle, you are sure to enjoy your visit to this historic venue. This view may be enough to inspire you to take a walk down the village's main street upon your return to personally take in some of the superb shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs that Warkworth has to offer.

Warkworth's award winning beach, although a twenty-minute walk from the center of downtown, is easily accessible by car. Parking and picnic areas are available nearby to further entice you to walk this scenic beach. An 18 mile (29 km) cyclist's day ride is nestled into the dramatic scenery surrounding the area. Those that enjoy playing golf can see many of the local sites when playing the 9 hole golf course, designed by "old Tom Harris" and founded in 1891. Golfers, in addition to having the opportunity to play this challenging course, will also be exposed to the distracting beauty of Warkworth Castle, Coquet Island, and a wonderful section of the Northumberland coastline. There are two different levels on this golf course to provide everyone with a challenge.

Located on the north banks of the river about 1/2 mile upstream from the castle, one will discover the Hermitage. By following a path leading you to a boat landing, one can hire a small boat to cross the Hermitage. Hidden by trees and carved into the rock, one will find a dormitory, confessional, and a chapel.

If one is also feeling adventurous, they can plan a hike along the Northumberland Coast Path - Stage II - Warkworth to Craster. This path, going for 13 miles begins at the historic village of Warkworth and will lead you through to Burling Links, north to Buston Links, then lead you to the Alnmouth Bay estuary and the village of Alnmouth. Upon departing Alnmouth, one will proceed to the fishing village of Boulmer and then it is on to Craster, famous for its kippers and oak smoked salmon. Expect peace, serenity, and lots of wildlife while on this journey from Warkworth