Northumberland is a haven for picturesque towns and villages ideal for UK staycations, from Kielder to Corbridge.

And another must-visit destination in the north east is Bamburgh, a charming coastal village renowned for boasting the nation’s finest beach.

Situated in the heart of Northumberland, approximately an hour’s drive from Newcastle, Bamburgh attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Its iconic castle, stunning coastlines, and scenic walking trails make it a hotspot for tourists nationwide.

However, Bamburgh’s crowning glory is its beach, which has garnered significant attention after being crowned the UK’s best by Which? for the fourth consecutive year.

The consumer champion website surveyed over 4,700 individuals about their experiences in UK seaside towns within the past year to determine the winner.

Participants were asked to share their opinions on various criteria, including beach quality, food and drink options, value for money, and tourist attractions.

Bamburgh emerged victorious, surpassing popular destinations like Portmeirion, Gwynedd, and St Andrews, Fife, reports the Mirror.

Which? explained: “Beloved by visitors for its ‘wild’ and ‘beautiful’ beach backed by its imposing castle, Bamburgh took first place in the consumer champion’s survey for the fourth consecutive year, achieving an impressive destination score of 86%.”

Visitors have been left awestruck by Bamburgh’s “magnificent” and “totally unspoiled” beach, with some hailing it as “probably the most impressive in the British Isles” and giving the village top marks for its pristine beach, scenic seafront, and tranquil atmosphere.

Aside from its stunning shoreline, Bamburgh Castle is a crowd-puller, perched atop a formidable 180-foot basalt crag offering sweeping views of the coastline and rural landscapes, not to mention serving as an iconic photo backdrop.

The castle isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a hub of activity, hosting everything from spooky ghost tours and thrilling dragon hunts to al fresco cinema experiences.

Plus, thanks to the Armstrong family, who own Bamburgh Castle and are avid dog enthusiasts, the grounds are welcoming to four-legged visitors, ensuring that every family member can enjoy this historic site.

For those with a thirst for history, the RNLI Grace Darling Museum pays homage to Victorian Britain’s celebrated heroine, Grace Horsley Darling, who bravely saved nine lives from a tragic shipwreck.

Moreover, history buffs can explore the Bamburgh Ossuary on guided tours, where the ancient bones from the 6th and 7th centuries lie in a crypt beneath St Aidan’s church.

For those feeling a bit peckish while strolling around Bamburgh, the village boasts a selection of cosy cafes and seafood restaurants.

Golf enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Bamburgh Castle Golf Club, often hailed as one of Britain’s most picturesque courses, offers stunning views across the Farne Islands, Lindisfarne and the Cheviots.