Northumberland, England

The quiet links of the Northumberland coast.

Castles, empty beaches and links golf at a fraction of the price. Bamburgh, Goswick, Dunstanburgh and Alnmouth Village.

By Paul DeftyFacts checked 4 Nov 2026

The trip in a minute

The Northumberland coast is England's best-kept golf secret. Castles on the skyline, empty beaches and links golf where you'll rarely wait on a tee.

Green fees are a fraction of the big-name links further south, which makes it ideal for a society trip or a long weekend with mates.

The courses

Bamburgh Castle

Par 68 · about 5,600 yards

Short on paper, but the views of the castle and Holy Island are worth the trip on their own. Book ahead.

Goswick Links

Par 72 · about 6,650 to 6,790 yards · founded 1890

The longest and toughest of the four, south of Berwick-upon-Tweed. A proper championship-length links. Visitors should book ahead and hold a handicap.

Dunstanburgh Castle

18 holes at Embleton

A links beside Embleton Bay with the ruined castle as a backdrop. One of the best-value rounds on the coast: around £25 to £40 depending on the day.

Alnmouth Village

9 holes · founded 1869

Said to be the oldest nine-hole links in England. Small, subtle and a lovely way to finish a trip.

Members Paul's plan for the trip

Which course to play on which day, the tees to pick for your handicap, and the holes you'll still be talking about at the bar.

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Members' love-hates

Been? Tell us the one thing you loved and the one thing you'd change. The best go up here with your name and handicap.

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