AMBLE

On the way from Newbiggin-By-The-Sea to Amble we come to the magnificent sandy sweep of Druridge Bay, home to a Country Park where, as well as the seven miles of beach there is a lake for boating and nature reserves with a variety of birds. Anti-tank blocks and pill boxes act as a reminder that during World War II this area was thought of as a possible location for a German invasion.

The town of Amble lies at the mouth of the River Coquet. There was once a Roman presence here, and after the Romans left the area was subjected to attacks by Germanic tribes and Vikings who had got wind of the fertile land in the area and the rich stocks of fish in the sea off this coast. Later on in the 19th century, Amble became an important centre for coal distribution until the decline of the mining industry. Today it is a popular centre for tourists visiting Northumberland, with attractions including a Marina and a Yacht Club. Just offshore is Coquet Island run by the RSPB, less well known than its more famous rivals up the coast, the Farne Islands, but with a similar range of inhabitants such as puffins and other nesting seabirds as well as eiders and seals. Unlike the Farnes, visitors are not allowed to set foot on the island, but boat trips are normally available which take visitors around the island. The island also has the base of a lighthouse tower which was built by monks.


Map of the area.

Amble Harbour Panorama - Northumberland (31135351171). Photo by alsimages1, via Wikimedia Commons.