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A coast-path out-and-back linking Craster with the dark crags of Cullernose Point and the contrasting rocks around Howick Bay. This is a shorter northern approach to the geological coast, returning the same way rather than continuing to Boulmer.
Start at the public footpath junction east of the toilets near Craster Quarry car park. Follow the mapped village paths and streets towards the harbour, then take the coastal footpath south. Stay on the signed path past Cullernose Point, continuing beside Howick Bay to the mapped turnaround on the cliff-top path. Retrace your steps to Craster. The turn is an ordinary point on the path, not a marked viewing platform; do not leave the path to reach a geological grid reference.
Cullernose is part of the Whin Sill, a sheet of dolerite formed when magma cooled underground. Its jointed rock makes a striking contrast with the layered sedimentary rocks farther south. Around Howick Bay the path passes the vicinity of a major fault, where movement brought different parts of the Carboniferous succession together. Look across the bay from the path, but expect the detail visible in the shore exposures to vary with tide and conditions. This route does not descend onto the foreshore.
Allow around 2½ hours for the 5.5 km walk and short stops; this is an estimate. There are village roads, uneven coastal paths and gates, with exposed, sometimes unfenced edges. Wear suitable footwear, keep dogs under close control and avoid the coast in dangerous winds or storms. Follow any temporary notices and turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Paid parking is available at Craster Quarry; check current charges and arrangements. Toilets are near the start, subject to availability. This walk does not enter Howick Hall gardens or Dunstanburgh Castle, and no admission ticket is required for the mapped public route.
Geological background: Geological Society: coast around Craster and Geological Conservation Review: Cullernose Point. Check current Northumberland public rights of way information and local signs before walking. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0.
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