Three Castles Challenge
Take on the Three Castles Challenge, a spectacular 30 mile coastal adventure along the Northumberland Coast Path from the iconic Bamburgh Castle to historic Warkworth. Along the way, you’ll pass three magnificent Northumberland castles, combining incredible coastal scenery with a journey through centuries of history. The predominantly flat route winds along sweeping beaches, sandy dunes, nature reserves and beautiful coastal paths. While the terrain is relatively accessible, the distance and sections of soft sand make this a rewarding endurance challenge – and every mile comes with a purpose. As part of Adventures for Animals, every step you take will help raise vital funds for animals in need around the world. So while you take on three castles, breathtaking coastline and 26.5 miles of adventure, you’ll be helping give animals in need the chance of a better future. Your challenge. Their future. Photo credit: Jeff Brown (https://thephotographersmentor.com/)
Your Itinerary
LEG 1 CASTLE 1
Meet at 6am in the oval shaped car park situated between Bamburgh Castle and Bamburgh Lighthouse on The Wynding Road. What3Words: ///harsh.budget.loopholes After a quick brief, you'll start your stunning challenge as the sun rises over the sea. Bamburgh Lighthouse → Bamburgh Castle → Seahouses → Beadnell → Newton-by-the-Sea → Craster Distance: 14 miles Walking time: 4.5–5.5 hours Refreshments: Beadnell Village / The Ship Inn, Newton-by-the-Sea Begin at Bamburgh Lighthouse, below Stag Rock, before heading along the beach towards the magnificent Bamburgh Castle. From here, follow the Northumberland Coastal Path south through Seahouses and Beadnell, before continuing towards Newton-by-the-Sea. The route then heads onto the beach, where Dunstanburgh Castle can be seen dramatically rising in the distance. Continue along the coastline towards Craster, the end point of Leg 1 and a great place to stop for refreshments.
LEG 2 CASTLE 2
Craster → Dunstanburgh Castle → Boulmer → Alnmouth Distance: 8 miles Walking time: 2–2.5 hours Refreshments: Craster / The Fishing Boat Inn, Boulmer From Craster, continue along the rugged Northumberland coastline, enjoying views back towards Dunstanburgh Castle before heading south through secluded bays and past the historic Earl Grey Bathing House. Continue through Boulmer, before following the coast towards the picturesque village of Alnmouth, where you can take a well-earned break and replenish water supplies.
LEG 3 CASTLE 3
Alnmouth → River Aln → Warkworth → Warkworth Castle → Amble Distance: 7 miles Walking time: 2–2.5 hours Refreshments: Warkworth Village / Amble The final leg begins in the beautiful coastal village of Alnmouth, following the route around the estuary and across the River Aln before continuing towards Warkworth. Take a short detour into the historic village to visit Warkworth Castle, the third and final castle of the challenge. After exploring the village and castle, rejoin the coastal path for the final stretch towards Amble, known as the “friendliest port in England.” Finish at Amble Harbour, where you can celebrate completing the 30-mile Three Castle Challenge with its colourful harbour, independent shops, restaurants and seaside atmosphere. CHALLENGE TOTAL 30 miles | Approx. 9–10.5 hours walking | 3 castles | 1 incredible Northumberland coastline LOGISTICS Upon completing the challenge and arriving in Alnmouth there'll be a minibus waiting to take you back to Bamburgh where you left your cars.
What's Included
- Minibus shuttle from Finish back to Start
- Experienced local guide
- Medal upon completion