Dunstanburgh Castle ghost walk
If you fancy a spooky ghost walk in an isolated setting, look no further than this stretch of Northumberland coastline, dominated by the magnificent ruin of Dunstanburgh Castle.
Ghostly goings-on
Some believe that the ghost of a 16th-century knight still haunts the castle ruins... (Our spooky story is taken from 'Ghosts: Mysterious Tales from the National Trust' by Sian Evans).
Total steps: 5
Total steps: 5
Start point
Craster, grid ref: NU258201
Step 1
Walk towards Dunstanburgh Castle, passing Craster harbour. The path takes you through farmland with the rocky shoreline to your right. It's worth looking in the sheltered rock pools for eider duck.
Step 2
National Trust members can visit the castle for free. In summer, roosting swallows swirl overhead and amongst the ruined chambers and staircases.
Step 3
Pass a golf course on your left and descend onto the beach. Stroll to the far end of Embleton Bay. Cross Embleton Burn as it trickles into the sea. If you haven't already, and it's warm enough to do so, you may want to take your shoes and socks off.
Step 4
Return from the beach and head back on the same path towards the castle. Once past the castle, climb up to your right on a higher level track back to Craster.
Step 5
After edging around the base of the castle, note the peculiar cliff formation to your right: the Greymare Rock was formed by volcanic pressure that folded the limestone. From April to August it is a breeding spot for kittiwake and fulmar.
End point
Craster, grid ref: NU258201
Trail map
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