Natural monuments around Newbiggin offer a diverse range of natural features, from expansive sandy beaches to significant coastal headlands. The area is characterized by its rich coastal environment, providing opportunities for observing marine wildlife and engaging in outdoor activities. These natural attractions showcase the region's connection to the sea and its successful ecological restoration efforts. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, including bays, parks, and reclaimed natural areas.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
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Great Whernside is a cracking peak to do. The walk up from the picturesque village of Kettlewell is scenic and not that long a journey, about four and a half kilometres each way. Don't expect a jagged peak of any kind, this is a nice rolling hill, topped with the obligatory good old-fashioned trig point. At 704 metres, it is easily a UK-designated Nuttall.
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One of the best mountains in the Dales and so much quieter than the big 3 (Y3P).
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Semer Water is the second largest natural lake in England, the first being Malham Tarn. It is half a mile long. Beside walkers like yourself, it attracts people who like canoeing and fishing or anyone who loves beautiful natural places in beautiful settings. On the northern bank, there is a car park, which is a good starting point. Spot the massive boulder nearby - these are called erratics, not native to this area, and carried over during the last Ice Age by the glacier. The same glacier carved the entire valley and, indeed, the lake.
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A gorgeous and stunning hill, at 704m (don't confuse it with Whernside, which is in a completely different location 27km away!). The name Whernside (from Querneside in Old English), first recorded in 1214, means "hillside where millstones are found". The word "Great" was added in the 18th century to distinguish it from Little Whernside. Fantastic views from the summit and the rocks and the trig point offer a nice place to lean against.
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Beautiful waterfalls which were used in the Kevin Costner version of Robin Hood for the river fight with Little John.
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Though not the highest waterfalls they are definitely worth a visit.
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Visitors to Newbiggin-by-the-Sea often enjoy its expansive sandy beach and bay, which are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and observing marine wildlife. Other popular natural features include the rugged coastal views from Church Point and Beacon Point, and the diverse landscapes of Druridge Bay Country Park, located a short distance away.
Yes, several natural areas around Newbiggin are great for families. Newbiggin Bay and Beach offer a safe and enjoyable environment for children. Druridge Bay Country Park provides ample space for cycling, walking, and wildlife observation, with lakes and meadows. For a unique experience, Semer Water, England's second-largest natural lake, is also family-friendly and offers opportunities for canoeing and fishing.
The coastal areas around Newbiggin, particularly Newbiggin Bay, are teeming with marine wildlife. You might spot dolphins, whales, porpoises, seals, and otters. Druridge Bay Country Park, with its diverse habitats of lakes, meadows, and woods, is a vital home for various bird species and other wildlife.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy leisurely walks along Newbiggin Bay and its iconic wooden breakwater, or explore the extensive trails at Druridge Bay Country Park for cycling and walking. For more challenging hikes, consider routes like the 'Addlebrough and Stake Fell loop' or those around the Aysgarth Falls area. Find more hiking options in the Hiking around Newbiggin guide.
While Newbiggin-by-the-Sea itself offers coastal walks, for dedicated hiking trails to natural monuments, you can explore routes that incorporate features like the Aysgarth Falls. For example, there are moderate routes like the 'Aysgarth Middle Falls – Aysgarth Lower Falls loop from Newbiggin'. You can find more details and other routes in the Hiking around Newbiggin guide.
The natural monuments around Newbiggin can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal walks and wildlife spotting, especially for marine life. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, and even winter can be dramatic for experiencing the rugged Northumberland coast, though some trails might be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Yes, Aysgarth Middle Falls offers a dedicated disabled viewpoint, making it accessible for wheelchair users to admire the powerful display of water. For coastal experiences, parts of Newbiggin Bay and Beach may offer accessible sections, though specific accessibility details should be checked locally.
Church Point and Beacon Point offer rugged coastal views of the North Sea, providing a sense of Newbiggin's connection to the sea. For panoramic vistas, Great Whernside Summit, though further afield, provides fantastic views from its 704m peak.
Church Point is notable as the location of the historic 13th-century Parish Church of St Bartholomew, dramatically set against the North Sea backdrop. While the church is a historical monument, its setting on the point offers a blend of natural beauty and history. For more general information about the area, you can visit Visit Northumberland.
Newbiggin-by-the-Sea has local cafes and pubs where visitors can refresh themselves after exploring the natural sites. These establishments are typically found within the town center, conveniently located near the bay and beach areas.
Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake is a large artificial lake within a nature reserve near Newbiggin. It's a remarkable example of land reclamation, transformed from a former coal mine spoil tip into a popular destination for walks and wildlife observation. It's definitely worth visiting for its ecological restoration success and tranquil environment.
Visitors frequently appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of Newbiggin Bay, especially its glowing sunrises and fiery sunsets. The dramatic coastal views from points like Church Point are also highly valued. The opportunity to observe diverse marine wildlife and the successful ecological transformation seen at places like Queen Elizabeth II Country Park Lake are also highlights for many.


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