Saturday 19 June: Bamburgh to Craster

 We are not hopeful as we wait by the bus stop outside the campsite for the 9.41 bus to Bamburgh. However amazingly it does arrive almost on the dot and we have a comfortable albeit chilly (open windows for ventilation) ride north along the coast - we are virtually the only passengers. We start walking below the impressive turrets of Bamburgh Castle where there is a fiercely competitive game of croquet on the lawn. On to the vast expanse of sand which is quite crowded with Saturday morningdog walkers as it is high tide. Today the wind is from the south so it is a little hard going at times. We see a flock of Eider Duck resting on the seaweed covered rocks. 3 miles of beach later we arrive in Seahouses which is a “lively, honky tonk” seaside resort according to Michael’s Mum. There are fish and chip shops everywhere! We opt for a coffee this time before heading on towards Beadnell. One stretch involves a long walk through a static caravan park which Simon finds nearly as intolerable as a slow tour of a castle state rooms! The sun starts to shine and Beadnell Bay is bathed in light as we eat our picnic at the back of the beach. We have to make a detour to avoid a protected area for nesting Terns. Along the sand and acros the headland to Lower Newton where we join the throng on the village green for a pint at The Ship Inn. Beer brewed on site: dark coloured Sea Coal for Simon, and pale Sea Horse for me. Most refreshing. Back through the dunes and along the beach towards Dunstanburgh Castle and back to our campsite. We have neighbours with a tent and a large van and I am feeling somewhat invaded! We are off to The Jolly Fisherman for supper this evening.