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Dunstanburgh Castle

36m Elevation
30m Prominence
England Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Dunstanburgh Castle from Craster

4.3 km ~2h Easy

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Embleton to Craster Walk via Dunstanburgh Castle

10.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Howick Hall to the Coast Walk

5.8 km ~2h Easy

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Howick Hall Gardens and Rumbling Kern

7.8 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle Circular Route

This popular walk starts in the quaint fishing village of Craster. From the car park, head north along the coastal path, enjoying stunning sea views and dramatic cliffs. The route takes you directly to the atmospheric ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. After exploring the castle, continue along the coast to Embleton Bay before looping back inland through farmland and quiet lanes to return to Craster.

11 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle Linear Route

Ideal for those wanting a shorter walk, this linear route begins in Craster and follows the scenic coastal path to Dunstanburgh Castle. The path is generally flat and well-maintained, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea and opportunities to spot seabirds. After visiting the castle, return to Craster along the same path.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Embleton Bay and Dunstanburgh Castle Circular Walk

Starting from the car park at Embleton Bay, this route combines a beautiful beach walk with a visit to Dunstanburgh Castle. Head south along the sandy beach, with the castle always in view. After exploring the ruins, follow the coastal path north before looping back through the dunes to Embleton Bay.

7 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Low Newton-by-the-Sea to Dunstanburgh Castle

This route starts from the picturesque village of Low Newton-by-the-Sea. Follow the coastal path south past Embleton Bay, soaking in the stunning scenery and the iconic silhouette of Dunstanburgh Castle in the distance. After exploring the castle, either retrace your steps or take a slightly inland route through fields back to Low Newton.

8 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Boulmer to Dunstanburgh Castle Coastal Walk

A longer and more challenging coastal walk, this route starts in the village of Boulmer. Head north along the rugged coastline, passing sandy coves, rocky outcrops, and eventually reaching Dunstanburgh Castle. After exploring the ruins, return along the same path or arrange transport back from Craster for a one-way journey.

16 km ~5.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill

Elevation

36m

119 ft

Prominence

30m

Coordinates

55.4905, -1.5962

NU256219

OS Map

75

Explorer: 332

At the Summit

The castle ruins and the surrounding rugged coastline offer stunning views.

Terrain & Geology

Coastal sandy paths gravel paths leading to the castle.

Primarily composed of volcanic rock, Dunstanburgh Castle features striking cliffs and coastal erosion, showcasing the rugged beauty of Northumberland.

Views & Scenery

Northumberland's coastline, the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, and the Farne Islands on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Dunstanburgh is derived from the Old English for 'Dunstan's fort', named after St Dunstan.

Historical Significance

The castle was built in the 14th century and played a key role in Northumberland's medieval history, reflecting the power struggles of the period.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Craster car park (paid parking), located in the village of Craster, just a short walk to the castle.

Public Transport

Local bus service from Alnwick to Craster operates regularly.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby Craster offers a pub, cafes, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Slippery paths near the coast, loose rocks, and potential high tides.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Dunstanburgh Castle?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Dunstanburgh Castle through the maps

Are there other walkers around Dunstanburgh Castle?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Dunstanburgh Castle search or of course create your own walk for Dunstanburgh Castle

Can I organise a walk to Dunstanburgh Castle?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Dunstanburgh Castle.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Dunstanburgh Castle?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Dunstanburgh Castle here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

Dunstanburgh Castle location map

Grid reference: NU256219

View on OpenStreetMap

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