RNLI Grace Darling Museum, Bamburgh
Discover the inspiring story of Victorian heroine Grace Darling and her daring sea rescue at this intimate museum near Bamburgh Castle.
The RNLI Grace Darling Museum in Bamburgh commemorates the heroic 1838 sea rescue by Grace Darling and her father. Set near Bamburgh Castle, it houses the original coble boat used in the rescue, personal artifacts, letters, and exhibits on maritime lifesaving history. Open seasonally with volunteer staff, the museum offers a poignant insight into Victorian bravery and the enduring legacy of Grace Darling’s courage.
A brief summary to RNLI Grace Darling Museum
- Radcliffe Rd, Bamburgh, NE69 7AE, GB
- +441668214910
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring to autumn season for full opening hours and family events.
- Pre-book group or school visits due to limited space and popularity.
- Explore the surrounding Bamburgh Castle gardens to enhance your visit.
- Take time to view the original coble boat and the detailed Longstone Lighthouse model.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Arriva North East bus service from Alnwick to Bamburgh, which runs regularly with a journey time of approximately 45-60 minutes. From the Bamburgh bus stop, the museum is a 10-minute walk. Tickets cost around £5-£8 GBP one way. Service frequency may reduce on weekends and holidays.
-
Car
Driving from Alnwick or nearby towns via the B6348 or B6349 roads takes about 20-30 minutes. Parking is available near Bamburgh Castle, but spaces are limited during peak season. There is no dedicated parking at the museum itself. Expect parking fees around £3-£5 GBP per day.
-
Train and Taxi
Take a train to Alnmouth station, approximately 30 minutes from Newcastle. From Alnmouth, a taxi ride to Bamburgh takes about 25 minutes and costs approximately £25-£35 GBP. This option is suitable if you prefer rail travel combined with a short road transfer.
RNLI Grace Darling Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about RNLI Grace Darling Museum
A Heroine's Legacy Preserved
The RNLI Grace Darling Museum is dedicated to the life and remarkable bravery of Grace Darling, a young lighthouse keeper’s daughter who, in 1838, risked her life during a fierce storm to rescue survivors from the wrecked steamship Forfarshire. This act of courage transformed her into a Victorian icon of heroism. The museum was established in 1938, a century after the rescue, to preserve Grace’s story and the original coble boat used in the daring rescue.Historic Setting and Collection
Nestled within the walled garden of Bamburgh Castle, where Grace’s grandfather once worked, the museum occupies a site close to her birthplace. Visitors can explore a rich collection of personal family items, letters, portraits, and manuscripts that shed light on Grace’s life and the maritime heritage of the region. The centerpiece is the actual coble boat, displayed alongside a detailed model of Longstone Lighthouse, which played a crucial role in the rescue.Exhibits Bringing History to Life
The museum’s exhibits vividly recount the events of the rescue, including the perilous journey Grace and her father undertook through stormy seas to save nine survivors stranded on a rock. Multimedia displays and educational materials provide context about the dangers faced by lighthouse keepers and lifeboat crews, as well as the broader history of sea rescue operations. The museum also highlights other female lifesavers, expanding the narrative of courage beyond Grace herself.Visitor Experience and Educational Outreach
Open seasonally from spring through autumn with volunteer staff, the museum offers a welcoming and intimate experience. It runs family-friendly events during school holidays and provides educational resources aligned with the national curriculum for Key Stage 1 and 2. Schools and groups are encouraged to pre-book visits due to the museum’s limited size and popularity. Volunteers play a vital role in delivering talks, education sessions, and maintaining the museum.Commemorating Grace Darling’s Enduring Impact
Grace Darling’s legacy extends beyond the museum walls. She passed away at a young age from tuberculosis, but her bravery inspired a monument near her family grave in Bamburgh’s St Aidan’s Churchyard, close to the museum. The RNLI continues to honor her memory through this museum, which also serves as a testament to the spirit of selflessness and community service embodied by lifeboat crews.Surroundings and Atmosphere
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the North Sea and Bamburgh Castle, the museum’s location enhances the emotional resonance of the story. The gardens surrounding the museum feature classic borders and orchards, providing a tranquil setting for reflection. The proximity to the coast where the rescue took place allows visitors to connect physically and emotionally with this historic maritime event.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
2.1 km
Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.
Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions
2.5 km
Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Beadnell Harbour
8.6 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Berwick Lighthouse
24.2 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Coxon's Tower
25.0 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Berwick Town Walls
25.1 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Town Hall
25.4 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Royal Tweed Bridge
25.5 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Bridge
25.5 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Cumberland Bastion
25.7 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
25.9 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Royal Border Bridge
26.1 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Broad Shiel
27.2 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Warkworth Hermitage
29.7 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Sundial
31.5 km
Explore the Sundial in Amble, a unique tourist attraction blending history, art, and stunning coastal views in a serene setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bamburgh Castle
0.6 km
Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.
Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street
5.0 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Seahouses, open long hours with a great range of essentials and local products.
National Trust - Farne Islands
6.1 km
A breathtaking wildlife sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, famed for puffins, seals, historic lighthouses, and rich cultural heritage.
Farne Islands
6.3 km
A breathtaking archipelago off Northumberland’s coast, home to vibrant seabird colonies, playful seals, and rich maritime history.
North Wames
6.6 km
Discover the rugged beauty and vibrant wildlife of North Wames, a pristine sanctuary in the Farne Islands off England’s Northumberland coast.
Longstone Lighthouse
7.9 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse on the Farne Islands, famed for Grace Darling’s heroic 1838 rescue and stunning coastal wildlife cruises.
Lindisfarne Castle
8.0 km
A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.
Beadnell Bay Beach
8.4 km
Discover Beadnell Bay Beach’s golden sands, unique west-facing harbor, and tranquil wildlife haven on the stunning Northumberland coast.
Lindisfarne Heritage Centre
8.8 km
Explore Holy Island’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits on history, nature, and culture at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre.
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
8.9 km
A wild, tidal landscape of mudflats, dunes and saltmarsh, home to wintering birds, seals and rare orchids on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
9.5 km
Discover Preston Tower, a medieval pele tower set in scenic Northumberland gardens, perfect for history lovers and unforgettable weddings.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
9.5 km
Explore the wild beauty and rich heritage of England’s dramatic Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
Holy Island
9.7 km
Discover Holy Island’s rich spiritual heritage, dramatic tidal landscapes, and vibrant wildlife sanctuary off England’s Northumberland coast.
National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave
11.9 km
Discover the tranquil sandstone refuge where Saint Cuthbert’s legacy and Northumberland’s spiritual history converge amidst stunning countryside.
Heritage Walks Northumberland
12.3 km
Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.
Essential places to dine
The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh
0.1 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed, elegant setting with stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast.
Insieme Seahouses
4.9 km
Experience generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Seahouses.
The Craster Arms
7.6 km
Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.
The Landing, Beadnell Bay
8.3 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.
The Ship Inn
12.1 km
Historic seaside gastropub with home-brewed ales and fresh seafood, offering rustic charm and stunning Northumberland coast views.
Percy Arms Hotel
13.8 km
Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.
The Jolly Fisherman Inn
17.0 km
A charming coastal inn in Craster serving fresh, traditional seafood with stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Bull Inn
17.2 km
A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.
Milan Restaurant
19.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.
The Dirty Bottles
21.4 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Treehouse Restaurant
21.5 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
21.6 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Adam and Eve
21.6 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Sonnet Restaurant
21.7 km
A 14-course poetic journey through Northumberland’s finest produce, served in an intimate, literary-inspired Alnwick dining room.
The Bosk
22.8 km
Rustic British cuisine and cozy charm in Alnwick’s tranquil countryside, perfect for relaxed dining and special gatherings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Country House Gifts & Gallery
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and high-quality treasures in the heart of historic Bamburgh at Country House Gifts & Gallery.
Farne Gifts
4.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
North Shore Gifts
5.0 km
Discover handmade jewellery and unique coastal gifts at North Shore Gifts, a welcoming boutique celebrating Northumberland’s artisanal spirit.
Drift
5.0 km
Discover Drift, a family-run coastal gift shop in Seahouses offering unique yarns and craft goodies inspired by Northumberland’s seaside charm.
National Trust Shop
5.0 km
Discover charming puffin souvenirs and local crafts at the National Trust Shop in Seahouses, supporting conservation of the Farne Islands.
Raggy Dolls
5.0 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a friendly boutique at the heart of charming Seahouses village.
The National Trust Shop
8.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
21.4 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
A World Of Difference
21.5 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Marilyn & Melrose
21.5 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Robinson's
21.6 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)
21.6 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Notes of Northumberland
22.6 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Willowburn Retail Park
22.9 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Granny's Keepsakes
25.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Schooner Inn
5.1 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Joiners Arms
11.2 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Lindisfarne Inn
14.4 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
Black Swan Alnwick
21.4 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
Harry's Bar
21.4 km
A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.
The Queens Head
21.6 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
21.7 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
The Radio Rooms
25.1 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Sun Inn
25.2 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
The Red Lion Inn
25.2 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 Curfew Micropub
25.4 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Barrels
25.4 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
Leaping Salmon
25.6 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Thatch
25.7 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
The Lounge Bar
31.6 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BedRocks
25.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
25.6 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
36.6 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
The Royal British Legion
45.1 km
Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.
Dance Delicious
48.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
Knightrider Discos
50.7 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
Nothing
60.0 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
62.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
68.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
68.4 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Border Club
70.0 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Base Nightclub
70.2 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
70.6 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Cosmic Ballroom
70.8 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.
World HQ
70.9 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
