For the most dramatic views, it's best to approach Bamburgh from Budle Bay which is over the hill to the north. The village is small but attractive and, despite its popularity, is largely unspoilt.

The castle sits on a rocky outcrop at the end of the main street. Behind it there are dunes and a sandy beach. Quieter spots can be found by walking north past the golf club.

An RNLI museum in Bamburgh records the life of lifeboat heroine Grace Darling. In 1838, she and her father rescued survivors from the shipwrecked SS Forfarshire. One of the exhibits is the boat used in the rescue.

Grace Darling is buried in an elaborate grave in St. Aidan's churchyard, opposite the museum.