Craster combines a long association with fishing and fish processing with coastal walks, archaeological traces and nature. If you are considering the village as a place to stay, it helps to decide first what you are most interested in: would you like to explore the coast on foot, learn about its history, or discover its fish processing and birdlife? The different routes vary in direction and length; their details can help you choose the right focus for your stay.
Coastal Walks of Varying Lengths
From Craster, you can reach Dunstanburgh Castle on foot via a 1.3-mile route along Northumberland’s rugged coastline, which crosses working farmland. Along the way, take account of current guidance on the landscape and land management.
The third stage of the Northumberland Coast Path also begins in Craster. It heads north along rocky cliffs towards Dunstanburgh Castle. The route of this stage may change as a result of future management changes, so check the current route before setting out.
The 14-mile section of the St Oswald’s Way runs from Bamburgh to Craster. This distance refers to the entire section, not the 1.3-mile route from Craster to the Castle. These details describe different stretches of the route and help you avoid confusing the planned length of your walk. The King Charles III England Coast Path also passes through Craster.
Another coastal walk runs from Craster to Howick. It heads towards the basalt cliffs of Cullernose Point, offers views of the North Sea and then reaches the historic village of Howick. A coastal path from Cullernose Point to Craster also crosses the surface of the Whin Sill. If you are interested in geology, this walk offers a direct connection to the landscape, as well as coastal views and Howick as a destination.
Fish Processing and History
Fishing and fish processing have long been associated with Craster. L Robson & Sons continues to make Craster kippers using traditional methods: the herrings are smoked for 16 hours over white wood chips and oak sawdust. This product makes the village’s connection with fish processing especially tangible.
Craster’s archaeological history also has a named site: the “Craster defended settlement” is an Iron Age fortified settlement on Craster Heugh. Craster Tower offers another glimpse into the past. A walk in Craster can end with a view of the tower. It forms part of a country house and includes a medieval tower, probably dating from the 14th century. The tower is considered a fortified refuge that served as a safe haven for local people during border raids.
Birdlife and Practical Information
The Arnold Memorial Nature Reserve is home to diverse vegetation and a rich variety of birdlife. Birds recorded there include the wryneck, icterine warbler and Pallas’s leaf warbler. Species records and seasonal sightings may change. The courtyard of Dunstanburgh Castle offers another perspective on nature: it is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and serves as a nesting site for seabirds. The Reserve focuses on vegetation and birdwatching, while the courtyard is notable for its designated conservation status and its role as a nesting site.
Alnmouth (Alnwick) is the nearest mainline railway station to Dunstanburgh Castle; trains from there connect to Edinburgh and Newcastle. Train services and station arrangements may change, so it is advisable to check the current timetable before travelling.
There is a pay-and-display car park for Dunstanburgh Castle just outside the village of Craster. As parking rules and charges may change, check the latest information before you drive. Together with the distinction between route lengths, this provides a practical basis for planning your walk and journey according to the distance you want to cover.
Discover more destinations: Carham, Seahouses, Alnmouth, Amble, Holburn Village, Newton-on-the-Moor, Newbiggin-By-The-Sea, Corbridge
Back to the main travel overview: Northumberland.
