Best Coastal Touring Spots

A touring break is a wonderful way to embrace the great outdoors and get up and close with nature, and coastal locations are perfect for that traditional seaside feel. From long strolls along the shore to building sandcastles or even enjoying an afternoon of water sports, there's something for everyone to enjoy on a holiday by the coast, and touring offers a fabulous sense of freedom.

Best beaches in Scotland and Northern England

There are so many breathtaking beaches in Scotland and Northern England that it can be difficult to decide where to go on your coastal touring trip. We've put together a list of our favourites to help you narrow down your choices and book the best holiday for you.

Gullane Bents, East Lothian

As one of the most popular beaches in East Scotland, Gullane Bents is a fantastic beach for families, groups and couples alike. Offering wonderful opportunities for sunbathing, walking, windsurfing, kitesurfing and much more, there's something for everyone to enjoy, surrounded by spectacular views over the bay and the Firth of Forth. 

Thurston Manor Holiday Park is only a 30 minute drive (22 miles) away, making it a great base for the beach. 

Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

Celebrated as one of the world's best beaches, Bamburgh Beach boasts vast white sands, pristine dunes and dramatic views of Bamburgh Castle, all enveloped in a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. It's perfect for wind-swept walks along the coast while enjoying views of the Farne Islands and 6th century castle, and a fabulous choice for surfers, known as one of the most consistent spots on the coast.

Riverside Holiday Park is only a 30 minute drive (16 miles) from Bamburgh Beach, so it's a wonderful place to stay to explore the iconic shores. 

Powfoot Beach, Dumfriesshire

Powfoot Beach sits where the Solway Firth meets the hamlet of Powfoot and offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history and walking opportunities. It's a great choice for those seeking a tranquil stroll accompanied by sensational views, as well as the chance to spot plenty of birds in the area. 

Queensberry Bay Holiday Park is located right on the edge of Powfoot Beach, so there's no better base to explore the vast sands. There are even sea view touring pitches for you to make the most of the glorious location.

Coldingham Bay, Berwickshire

This sandy beach may not be the biggest on the list, but its relaxed rural feel makes it a perfect spot to sunbathe, build sandcastles or explore the historic beach huts. The beach is east-facing, making it great for catching the morning sunshine, and it's a highly popular place for surfers.

Coldingham Bay Holiday Park is just over a mile from the beach and can be reached in 7 minutes by car or 34 minutes on foot. With a peaceful countryside setting, it makes an ideal base for coastal adventures in Berwickshire.

Belhaven Bay, East Lothian

Located within John Muir Country Park, Behaven Bay is excellent for coastal walks, picnics, surfing, and enjoying the views onto the Forth Estuary. The beach is best visited at low tide so you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Bridge to Nowhere and even have a wander across. 

Thurston Manor Holiday Park is a 14 minute drive (6 miles) away from Belhaven Bay and makes a fantastic base to explore the beach and everything else East Lothian has to offer. 

Seahouses, Northumberland

Situated on the edge of a charming harbour town, Seahouses Beach is characterised with gentle slopes, golden sand and grassy dunes. It's ideal for those seeking to sit back and relax with the rolling of the waves and views of the Farne Islands in the distance. You could also hop on a boat tour to the islands to spot puffins, grey seals and even dolphins. 

Riverside Holiday Park is a 34 minute drive (18 miles) from Seahouses and is a wonderful place to explore Northumberland's beaches, history and attractions. 

Pease Bay, Berwickshire

Pease Bay boasts a beautiful sandy beach, with sandstone cliffs, rocky outcrops and fantastic surfing opportunities. There are many walks to enjoy in the area, and Pease Dean Wildlife Reserve is only a short stroll away, offering an abundance of flora and fauna through an ancient woodland. 

Coldingham Bay Holiday Park is a 17 minute (8 miles) drive from Pease Bay, making is a great base to explore the glorious sands. 

Annan Beach, Dumfriesshire

This large salt marsh is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds, and makes a wonderful place for a walk. If you're looking for a great spot for a dog walk, Annan is a fabulous choice, with plenty of space for your pooch to stretch their legs while you enjoy views over the marsh. 

Queensberry Bay Holiday Park is only a 10 minute drive (5 miles) away from Annan and offers a glorious beachside setting, ideal for exploring the beaches of Dumfries & Galloway.

Coastal walks for your touring holiday

A coastal walk is one of the best ways to enjoy the scent of sea air, tranquil surroundings and wonderful wildlife, and there are lots of routes to explore in Scotland and Northern England. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, there are options to suit everyone.

Coastal Walks in North East England

Northumberland Coast Path

Spanning 7000 years of history, the Northumberland coast offers some of the finest walking routes in the country. The Northumberland Coast Path is a 62 mile stretch from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, taking you along sandy beaches, past dramatic castles and through quaint villages.

Seahouses to Bamburgh Castle

This 3 mile walk along the beach is a fabulous way to experience some of the Northumberland coast's most breathtaking scenery. Alongside gorgeous views over the sea, the castle's dramatic presence also makes for a spectacular landscape, and you can take a wander around the grounds to admire the fortresses and even more impressive views. Dogs are welcome in the grounds, so your four-legged friends don't have to be left behind. 

Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle

A short 1.3 mile walk along the coast towards Dunstanburgh Castle, offering fantastic sea views along the way. The ruins of the once-grand fortress can only be reached on foot, and this route is perfect for a family stroll where everyone can get some fresh air and learn more about the region's history.

If you're looking to explore the Northumberland coast, Riverside Holiday Park offers a fabulous base for your touring holiday.

Coastal attractions in Scotland

Scottish Seabird Centre

28 min drive / 16 miles from Thurston Manor Holiday Park

49 min drive / 30 miles from Coldingham Bay Holiday Park

A haven for birdwatchers and lovers of wildlife, the Scottish Seabird Centre is the place to be to explore the wonders of Scotland's seas. With interactive cameras you can control, a VR experience, a beautiful cafe with coastal views and seasonal boat trips to catch a close up of local wildlife, there's plenty to keep everyone busy. 

Eyemouth Museum

11 min drive / 4 miles from Coldingham Bay Holiday Park

30 min drive / 21 miles from Thurston Manor Holiday Park

This independent museum is the perfect spot to learn more about Eyemouth and its past. The award-winning attraction houses a range of exhibits, taking you through the town's fishing, farming and social history, including the Fishing Disaster of 1881, commemorated through a tapestry. 

Coast to Coast Surf School

12 min drive / 5 miles from Thurston Manor Holiday Park

34 min drive / 19 miles from Coldingham Bay Holiday Park

Offering surf lessons, paddleboarding and many more coastal adventures, Coast to Coast Surf School is perfect for those seeking to hit the waves on your holiday. Whether you're trying surfing for the first time or experienced on a board, there's something for every skill level. 

Dunbar Harbour

12 min drive / 5 miles from Thurston Manor Holiday Park

35 min drive / 18 miles from Coldingham Bay Holiday Park

Dunbar is located at the mouth of Firth of Forth and its historic harbour is a wonderful place to explore, offering spectacular sea views and the chance to spot local wildlife. Stroll along and admire the colourful fishing boats, explore the interpretation panels to learn everything about shipwrecks, pirates and more, or simply enjoy a spot of fresh sea air. 

Powfoot Golf Club

6 min drive / 1 mile from Queensberry Bay Holiday Park

Set amongst beautiful scenery, this golf course is a wonderful place to enjoy a game. With a mixture of links and parkland, everyone can have a fabulous time, whether you're a seasoned golfer or a complete beginner. 

Coastal attractions in Northumberland

If you're escaping for a Northumberland touring holiday, there are so many coastal attractions that you'll be spoilt for choice. From castle trips to spotting wildlife, there's something to keep everyone smiling.

Bamburgh Castle

29 min drive / 16 miles from Riverside Holiday Park

Step into over 3000 years of rich history, adventure and glorious views over the Northumberland coast with a visit to this iconic castle. The castle spans nine acres and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country, with centuries of legends, myths and ghostly tales to discover. 

Druidge Bay Country Park

46 min drive / 29 miles from Riverside Holiday Park

Covering seven miles of sand running from Amble to Cresswell, this living landscape is rich in wildlife and a popular area for walks, cycling, paddling and surfing. As well as a beautiful beach, the park is also home to many species of birds, including swans and goldeneye, and you'll also find a cafe, play area, meadows and woods to explore. 

Warkworth Castle

44 min drive / 25 miles from Riverside Holiday Park

Once the residence of the Percy family, this baronial fortress palace has plenty of history to discover. You'll be guided by the castle's medieval inhabitants, learning more about how the castle worked and significant events throughout its life. Be sure not to miss the Hermitage, a tiny rock-cut chapel which can be reached via a charming riverside walk and a ferry. 

Lindisfarne

39 min drive / 18 miles from Riverside Holiday Park

Also known as Holy Island, Lindisfarne is a small island that can only be reached while the tide is out. On the island, you'll find plenty of things to do, from cosy pubs to charming cafes, as well as the fantastic Lindisfarne Castle and Priory. With so much history to uncover and many opportunities to relax, it's a great spot for a day out.