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ncient castles, pristine coastline and jaw-dropping views across the moors… Yes the Northumbrians don’t do too badly for beautiful scenery.

One of our favourite spots is the stretch of shoreline that runs from Alnmouth to Craster, a nine-mile marked trail that takes you past sandy coves where you can throw down a blanket and whip out the picnic (provided the tide’s out enough of course).

Once you get to Craster, look out for the wisp of smoke from the chimney at the Jolly Fisherman, and the next thing you know you’ll be settling in with a pint and a bowl of homemade crab soup.

Further on along the coast you’ve got the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle (post-lunch walk anyone?), and if you keep going you’ll end up in Bamburgh where – yep, you guessed it – there’s another gorgeous castle.

The wildlife around here’s pretty marvellous, too. Look to your right as you’re heading north and just before you get to Bamburgh you’ll see the Farne Islands – how about a boat trip out to see the puffins, seals and other residents?

By the time you get back it’ll be fish-and-chips o’clock.