Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh
Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.
The Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker near Bamburgh, Northumberland, is a historic WWII fortification uniquely shaped as an elongated hexagon. Built to defend the vulnerable northeast coast of England, this concrete pillbox offers a glimpse into Britain’s wartime defensive strategy and spectacular views of the North Sea coastline. Its distinctive lozenge shape allowed for multiple firing positions, designed to house infantry armed with rifles and light machine guns.
A brief summary to Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
- J827+59, Bamburgh, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the bunker is located on uneven coastal terrain near dunes and beach paths.
- Visit during low tide to explore the surrounding beach and see nearby WWII anti-tank obstacles.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced views of the North Sea and Bamburgh Castle from the bunker’s vantage point.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Northumberland Coast Path for a broader historical and scenic experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the local bus service from Alnwick to Bamburgh, which takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies seasonally. From Bamburgh village, a 20-minute walk along coastal paths leads to the bunker site.
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Car
Driving from Alnwick to the Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker takes about 20 minutes via the A1 and local roads. Parking is limited near Bamburgh village; use designated parking areas and prepare for a 15 to 20-minute walk over uneven terrain to reach the bunker.
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Walking
For active travelers, a coastal walk from Bamburgh Castle to the bunker takes roughly 40 minutes. The path is uneven and may be slippery near dunes, so suitable footwear is essential. This route offers scenic views of the coastline and nearby historic sites.
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
Distinctive Design and Military Purpose
The Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker is a polygonal pillbox unique to the northeast of England, characterized by an elongated hexagonal plan. Its front and rear walls are significantly longer than the others, allowing for four forward-facing embrasures, while the rear wall contains two embrasures and the entrance. The shorter angled walls each have a single embrasure. Inside, a longitudinal anti-ricochet wall runs through the structure to protect occupants from bullet deflections. This design was intended to accommodate infantry armed with rifles and light machine guns, providing a robust defensive position against potential coastal invasions during World War II.Historical Context and Strategic Importance
Constructed in response to the threat of Nazi invasion after the fall of France in 1940, the bunker formed part of a multilayered coastal defense system along the Northumberland coast. The British military fortified vulnerable beaches with pillboxes, anti-tank obstacles, and barbed wire entanglements to delay enemy landings and protect key inland areas. The Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker near Bamburgh was strategically placed to command views of the coastline and approaches, complementing other defensive lines and stop lines inland. This network aimed to buy time for mobile reserves to counter any invading forces.Coastal Setting and Preservation
Situated near Bamburgh, the bunker overlooks the North Sea and the iconic Bamburgh Castle area, blending military history with stunning natural scenery. The structure's concrete walls have withstood decades of coastal weathering, offering a tangible link to the region’s wartime past. While many similar defenses have been lost or obscured, the Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker remains a well-preserved example of British hardened field defenses. Its location near shifting dunes and the shoreline highlights the ongoing interaction between natural forces and historic military architecture.Architectural Features and Interior Layout
The bunker’s irregular hexagonal shape is both functional and distinctive. The four longer walls at the front allowed for multiple firing positions to cover a broad field of fire along the beach and coastal approaches. The internal anti-ricochet wall reduced the risk of bullets bouncing inside, enhancing crew safety. The entrance at the rear was protected by an L-shaped blast wall, designed to shield against direct attacks. Constructed from reinforced concrete approximately 15 inches thick, the bunker was built to withstand small arms fire and shell fragments.Role in Northumberland’s Defensive Network
This bunker was part of the broader Northumberland stop lines, a series of pillboxes and anti-tank obstacles that stretched across the county. These defenses linked key roads, railways, and natural barriers, creating a layered system to slow enemy advances. The Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker’s placement near Bamburgh was crucial to controlling the coastal approaches and supporting inland defenses. Though the threat of invasion diminished as the war progressed, these structures remain important historical markers of Britain’s wartime resilience.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Environment
Today, visitors to the Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker can explore the rugged coastline and imagine the tense wartime atmosphere that once prevailed. The site offers panoramic views of the sea and nearby landmarks, including Bamburgh Castle. The bunker’s austere concrete form contrasts with the natural beauty of the surrounding dunes and beaches, providing a poignant reminder of the region’s strategic significance during WWII. Interpretation boards and local guides often highlight the bunker’s role within the network of coastal defenses, enriching the visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
0.0 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
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Beadnell Harbour
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Berwick Lighthouse
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Berwick Town Walls
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Town Hall
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Royal Tweed Bridge
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Royal Border Bridge
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Warkworth Hermitage
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Broad Shiel
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Lamberton Skerrs
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Unmissable attractions to see
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
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Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street
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National Trust - Farne Islands
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Farne Islands
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North Wames
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Beadnell Bay Beach
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Longstone Lighthouse
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Northumberland Coast National Landscape
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Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
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Lindisfarne Castle
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Lindisfarne Heritage Centre
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Holy Island
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Essential places to dine
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Insieme Seahouses
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The Craster Arms
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The Landing, Beadnell Bay
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The Ship Inn
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Percy Arms Hotel
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The Jolly Fisherman Inn
15.4 km
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The Black Bull Inn
19.4 km
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The Dirty Bottles
20.7 km
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The Treehouse Restaurant
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The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
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Adam and Eve
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Sonnet Restaurant
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Milan Restaurant
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The Bosk
23.5 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
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Farne Gifts
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National Trust Shop
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Drift
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Raggy Dolls
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North Shore Gifts
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The National Trust Shop
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Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
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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
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Marilyn & Melrose
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Robinson's
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The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
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Notes of Northumberland
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Willowburn Retail Park
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Jane & Harry
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Schooner Inn
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The Joiners Arms
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The Lindisfarne Inn
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Black Swan Alnwick
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Harry's Bar
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The Queens Head
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Tanners Arms Alnwick
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The Sun Inn
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The Red Lion Inn
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The Radio Rooms
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The Curfew Micropub
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The Thatch
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The Lounge Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
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The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
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Dance Delicious
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The Royal British Legion
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Knightrider Discos
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Morven
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Cosmic Ballroom
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Popworld - Newcastle
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Greys Club
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SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
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Flares - Newcastle
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
