Druridge Bay Country Park: A Coastal Haven of Nature and History
Explore Druridge Bay Country Park’s stunning lake, beach, and woodlands, rich in wildlife and history, perfect for family fun and outdoor adventures.
Druridge Bay Country Park in Northumberland is a scenic coastal park featuring a large freshwater lake, woodlands, and three miles of sandy beach and dunes. It offers diverse wildlife, watersports, family-friendly amenities including a visitor centre, café, and play area, plus historical remnants from WWII. Ideal for walking, birdwatching, and water activities, it blends natural beauty with rich heritage in a tranquil setting.
A brief summary to Druridge Bay Country Park
- A1068, Morpeth, Red Row, NE61 5BX, GB
- +441670760968
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching to spot rare species like the Common Goldeneye and Kingfisher.
- Visit on weekends or school holidays to enjoy the café and visitor centre fully open.
- Wear sturdy footwear for woodland trails and beach walks, especially in wet weather.
- Check local event schedules for seasonal activities like the Mighty Dub Fest and Halloween Pumpkin Trail.
- Dogs are welcome off-lead around the lake and on the beach, making it ideal for pet owners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Druridge Bay Country Park from Morpeth takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A1068. The park offers several car parks with charges up to £4.50 for over two hours. Blue Badge holders park free. Note that parking is limited during peak events.
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Bus
Public buses X20 from Newcastle or Alnwick and X18 from Morpeth stop at nearby Hadston village. From Hadston, it is a 10-minute walk to the park. Bus service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance. Tickets typically cost £3-£6.
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Cycling
Druridge Bay Country Park lies on the Northumberland Coast and Castles Cycle Route, accessible by bike with scenic coastal views. Cycle paths connect from nearby towns, suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Druridge Bay Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Druridge Bay Country Park
A Living Landscape of Coastal and Woodland Beauty
Druridge Bay Country Park stretches across a diverse landscape of a large freshwater lake, regenerating woodlands, meadows, and a pristine three-mile stretch of sandy beach backed by dunes. The park’s lake was reclaimed from a former opencast coal mine and now provides a serene setting for walking, running, and water sports such as paddleboarding and sailing. The surrounding woodlands and meadows are interlaced with a network of paths, inviting visitors to explore the rich natural environment and enjoy peaceful picnics amid the evolving greenery.Rich Wildlife and Birdwatching Opportunities
The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. It supports a resident herd of swans and attracts a variety of rare and common birds including the Common Goldeneye, Kingfisher, Willow Tit, and Long-tailed Duck. The pine and larch plantations around the lake also draw species like Eurasian Siskin and Common Crossbill. Along the dunes and coastline, seabirds such as gannets, auks, and terns can be spotted, especially during migration seasons. This diversity makes Druridge Bay a nationally significant site for wildfowl and coastal birdlife.Historical Echoes Along the Coast
Druridge Bay’s coastline holds a fascinating history. In the 19th century, coal mining shaped the area, and during World War II, the bay was fortified against possible German invasion. Visitors can still see anti-tank blocks and pillboxes scattered along the shore, remnants of the wartime defenses. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance adds a unique depth to the park’s character, connecting visitors with both the environment and the past.Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities
The park is well-equipped for visitors of all ages. The visitor centre features a café, toilets, a gift shop, and an information hub. Nearby, a children’s wooden adventure playground offers engaging play opportunities, while picnic benches are scattered throughout the park for family meals in nature. Watersports enthusiasts can launch boats on the lake or enjoy surfing and kitesurfing on the beach. Seasonal events such as the Mighty Dub Fest and Halloween Pumpkin Trail add lively community spirit and entertainment.Access and Visitor Experience
Located just off the A1068 near Morpeth, Druridge Bay Country Park is easily accessible by car with ample parking (charges apply). Public transport options include buses connecting from Newcastle, Alnwick, and Morpeth with a short walk from nearby Hadston village. The park is open year-round during daylight hours, with the visitor centre and café operating mainly on weekends and school holidays. The well-maintained paths and facilities make it suitable for casual walkers, families, and nature lovers seeking a tranquil coastal escape.Commitment to Conservation and Future Vision
Druridge Bay is part of a partnership aiming to enhance its status as a nationally renowned wildlife tourism destination. Efforts focus on habitat restoration, visitor education, and sustainable management to protect its diverse ecosystems. This commitment ensures that the park remains a vibrant sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished recreational space for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warkworth Hermitage
6.8 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Search Northumberland, Things to do in Northumberland
11.6 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture of Northumberland, the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
Hunkleton stone
12.8 km
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Morpeth Clock Tower
15.7 km
Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
Hole in The Wall
20.3 km
Historic coastal landmark in Blyth featuring a unique hole framing stunning beach views and easy beach access.
Westmorland Way
23.0 km
Explore Cramlington from Westmorland Way, your convenient bus stop for seamless access to local attractions and amenities.
Beadnell Harbour
28.9 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Lady's Well
32.0 km
Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
Collingwood Monument
32.3 km
A commanding tribute to Admiral Collingwood overlooking the River Tyne, celebrating a naval hero’s legacy at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Jesmond Dene Mill
32.6 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
Saint Mary's Well
33.3 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
Town Moor
33.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Town Moor, a vast urban park in Newcastle upon Tyne offering lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife for every traveler to enjoy.
Salisbury House
33.8 km
Historic Salisbury House in Wallsend stands on ancient Roman fort grounds, bridging centuries of military and industrial heritage.
King John's Palace
34.1 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Adam of Jesmond's House
34.1 km
Explore the historic charm of Adam of Jesmond's House, an architectural gem in Newcastle upon Tyne that showcases the elegance of Georgian design and rich local heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hauxley Nature Reserve
2.7 km
Explore a vibrant coastal wildlife haven with accessible trails, eco-friendly facilities, and rich biodiversity at Hauxley Nature Reserve.
Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre
2.8 km
Discover Northumberland’s eco-friendly wildlife sanctuary with accessible trails, diverse birdlife, and a welcoming café in a unique straw-bale centre.
Sundial
4.8 km
Discover Amble’s iconic 7-metre Sundial—Europe’s largest gnomon—where precision meets coastal charm in a vibrant harbour town.
Amble Harbour Village
4.9 km
Discover Amble Harbour Village, a charming Northumberland coastal gem where fresh seafood, vibrant markets, and maritime heritage come alive.
Amble Beach Huts On Little Shore
5.0 km
Charming beach huts and a peaceful sandy shore combine with fresh seafood and coastal walks on Northumberland’s scenic Amble coast.
Coquet Island
5.2 km
A vital seabird sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, home to rare Roseate Terns, puffins, and a thriving seal colony.
Warkworth Castle
6.4 km
Explore the majestic ruins and rich history of Warkworth Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning river and coastal views in Northumberland.
Warkworth Beach
6.8 km
Discover the tranquil sands and scenic dunes of Warkworth Beach, a peaceful Northumberland coastal escape with free parking and natural beauty.
Northumberland coastal path
7.9 km
Explore 100 kilometers of stunning coastline, historic castles, and vibrant wildlife on the iconic Northumberland Coast Path.
Northumberland Zoo
8.3 km
Discover Northumberland Zoo’s family-run wildlife sanctuary with rare species, immersive keeper talks, and scenic rural charm near Morpeth.
Beaches
11.0 km
A serene sandy beach and charming coastal village in Northumberland, perfect for tranquil walks, wildlife, and rich maritime heritage.
Woodhorn Museum
11.5 km
Explore Northumberland’s mining heritage and vibrant art scene at Woodhorn Museum, set in a historic colliery within QEII Country Park.
Asda Ashington Superstore
11.9 km
A comprehensive retail destination in Ashington offering groceries, pharmacy, cafe, clothing, and petrol services with extended daily hours.
Co-op Food - Newbiggin Central - Front Street
12.5 km
Your friendly local Co-op Food on Front Street, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, open daily for all your convenience shopping needs.
Northumbrian Gifts
13.8 km
Discover Northumberland’s finest artisan spirits, craft beers, and unique gift hampers in the heart of Ashington.
Essential places to dine
The Old Storehouse
4.4 km
Cozy British dining and lively bar atmosphere in Amble’s charming coastal setting, offering hearty meals and warm local hospitality.
JASPERS BISTRO
4.7 km
A cozy seafood haven in Amble delivering exquisite, locally sourced dishes with personal service and refined charm.
Lilly’s Landing
4.9 km
Savor fresh seafood and stunning harbor views at Lilly’s Landing, Amble’s charming coastal restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Boathouse
5.0 km
Fresh Northumberland seafood served with stunning coastal views in a charming maritime setting.
The Fish Shack
5.0 km
Rustic seafood dining on Amble’s harbour, serving fresh local catch with stunning views and cozy charm.
Bistro 23
11.0 km
Intimate family-run bistro in scenic Alnmouth serving fresh, local seafood and Northumberland specialties with warm hospitality.
The Whittling House
11.1 km
A cosy boutique hotel and acclaimed seafood restaurant in Alnmouth, blending rustic charm with coastal elegance and warm hospitality.
Restaurant Italia
11.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Alnmouth’s charming seaside village, nestled within the welcoming Hope & Anchor Hotel.
The Hope & Anchor Hotel
11.1 km
Cozy coastal retreat with modern rooms, Italian dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Alnmouth village.
The Cook & Barker Inn
11.4 km
A warm, stylish country pub near Morpeth, serving excellent food and offering comfortable rooms in the heart of Northumberland.
Dobson Restaurant
12.2 km
Experience refined British dining in a grand Georgian setting at Dobson Restaurant, Macdonald Linden Hall, nestled in scenic Northumberland.
Sonnet Restaurant
15.7 km
Experience a poetic 14-course tasting menu inspired by Shakespearean sonnets, blending local Northumberland flavors with refined culinary artistry.
The Treehouse Restaurant
15.7 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
Adam and Eve
15.9 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
16.0 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Raggy Dolls Limited
4.7 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
Glamble Gifts & Accessories
4.9 km
Discover exquisite cosmetics and charming accessories in the scenic setting of Amble Harbour Village’s boutique gem.
A Touch of Love
4.9 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt souvenirs at 'A Touch of Love' in Amble, a charming gift shop celebrating local craftsmanship.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
6.7 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
Aln Gift Shop
10.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Aln Gift Shop, a cozy boutique nestled in the scenic village of Alnmouth, Northumberland.
Jane & Harry
11.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Sports Direct
12.1 km
Explore a vast range of affordable sportswear, bicycles, and outdoor gear at Sports Direct in Ashington, the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts.
Willowburn Retail Park
14.4 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Notes of Northumberland
14.7 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Sanderson Arcade
15.6 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Morpeth blending popular brands with unique local boutiques and a welcoming atmosphere.
White Stuff Morpeth
15.7 km
Discover stylish, quality clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Morpeth, where fashion meets friendly service in a charming market town setting.
Robinson's
15.9 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
16.0 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Marilyn & Melrose
16.1 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
16.1 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lounge Bar
4.7 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Foxes Den
8.7 km
A cozy, dog-friendly micro pub in Felton’s riverside basement, famed for real ales and friendly local charm.
The Northumberland Arms
8.7 km
Charming country pub and boutique hotel in Felton offering fresh local cuisine, luxury rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
9.2 km
A lively Wild West-themed bar and grill in Morpeth offering casual dining, sports entertainment, and a pet-friendly atmosphere within Felmoor Holiday Park.
The Red Lion Inn
11.0 km
Charming coastal pub and cozy B&B in Alnmouth, famed for wood-fired pizzas, local ales, and warm hospitality just steps from the beach.
The Sun Inn
11.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
Coast & Country
11.5 km
A tranquil bar and shop nestled in Northumberland’s Percy Wood Golf and Country Club, perfect for relaxing with a drink after outdoor adventures.
R. A. O. B Club
12.1 km
A vibrant social club in Ashington offering great drinks, lively karaoke, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
White House Unique Social Club
12.1 km
A vibrant social club in Ashington with live music, DJ nights, and a welcoming atmosphere on a permanent wooden dancefloor.
Anglers Arms
13.5 km
A charming four-star country inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
The Granby Inn
14.1 km
A welcoming historic village inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and classic pub charm in a tranquil countryside setting.
Tap & Spile
15.5 km
A cozy traditional pub in Morpeth with a welcoming fire, six real ales, and a lively community atmosphere.
The Black & Grey Morpeth
15.5 km
A lively, dog-friendly bar and pub in Morpeth’s historic centre offering vibrant atmosphere, hearty meals, and welcoming service.
Barluga Morpeth
15.6 km
Modern British dining and vibrant bar in Morpeth’s Sanderson Arcade, offering imaginative cuisine, fine wines, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Bull Morpeth
15.6 km
Historic 19th-century pub in Morpeth with classic British fare, riverside views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
2.0 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Dance Delicious
12.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
Knightrider Discos
17.3 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
World HQ
35.5 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
35.6 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
35.7 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Popworld - Newcastle
35.7 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
35.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
35.8 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
35.8 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
35.8 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
35.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
35.9 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
35.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
35.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly