Our pick of favourite places toEat locally

Northumberland offers exceptional seafood dining thanks to its 64-mile North Sea coastline and active fishing communities in towns like Seahouses, Craster, and Amble, which provide restaurants with freshly landed catches. The region boasts culinary heritage exemplified by Craster’s famous kippers, with L Robson’s family business producing some of the finest smoked kippers, salmon, haddock and cod for almost 100 years.

The diverse North Sea waters yield everything from succulent sand dab and lemon sole to gorgeous gurnard alongside traditional catches like crab and lobster. Atmospheric restaurants such as The Jolly Fisherman in Craster with its sea views and famous crab, and The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh, create dining experiences that combine stunning coastal settings with the freshest possible seafood.

 

 

Inland, vast pastoral landscapes produce exceptional beef and lamb, while artisan producers like the Northumberland Cheese Company and Doddington Dairy craft award-winning cheeses and ice cream from local herds.

Northumberland’s dining scene reflects this wealth of ingredients, from Michelin-starred establishments to charming country pubs and innovative bistros. Whether seeking refined fine dining or the warm hospitality of traditional inns, the county’s restaurants offer an authentic taste of Northumberland’s rich culinary heritage – an exploration of landscape through flavour, where every meal tells the story of ancient traditions and passionate local producers.

 

The Fish Shack, Amble
A harbour-front restaurant in Amble built inside the old Sea Quest boat. Serves fresh seafood including oysters and smoked fish, with outdoor seating and water views. Dog friendly.
www.boathousefoodgroup.co.uk/fish-shack

The Old Boathouse, Amble
Located in a former lifeboat station overlooking Amble Harbour. Twice-awarded Coastal Fish Restaurant of the Year, serving sustainably-caught local seafood including lobster, hake, and sea bass. Dining inside and out. Dog friendly.
www.boathousefoodgroup.co.uk/old-boat-house-amble

Northumberland Arms, Felton
A popular and friendly gastro pub housed in a 1820 coaching inn that serves locally sourced meat and fish alongside hand crafted pies and Northumbrian cheese with sophisticated seasonal dishes. Dining inside the historic inn or outside on a picturesque terrace overlooking the River Coquet. Dog Friendly.
www.northumberlandarms-felton.co.uk

Sonnet Restaurant, Alnwick
A new award-winning restaurant concept created by Gary McDermott and Claudia Mazareanu offering a 14 course tasting menu focused on the best British ingredients, from small farmers to the best locally sourced rare breed meats and fine food specialists. The food they cook has lots of big flavours, some over fire, some playful, but always the finest the land and sea have to offer. The table is yours for the entire evening to relax and enjoy the dining. Dog friendly.
www.sonnet.restaurant

The Jolly Fisherman Craster
A traditional low-beamed pub in Craster with an open fire and sea views from the dining area. Popular with locals for good food and drink, though it gets busy due to its reputation. Dining inside and out. Dogs welcome in the bar but not the restaurant.
www.thejollyfishermancraster.co.uk

The Landing at Beadnell Bay
A beach bar and kitchen located just 100 meters from the beach. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, small or large plates, this place has got you covered throughout the day. Walk-ins only during the day. Bookings taken after 5pm. Dining inside and out. Dog’s welcome outdoors.
www.thelanding.uk

The Black Swan Inn, Seahouses
Recently refurbished this elegant gastropub serves the finest dishes with ingredients sourced locally from the fisherman and butchers complemented with an extensive drinks menu. Located on this sandy bay popular for watersports. Dining inside and out. Dogs welcome in bar but not the restaurant.
www.northcoastcollective.co.uk/black-swan-inn

The Potted Lobster
A Bamburgh bistro specialising in seasonal seafood from local suppliers, including lobster, squid, and oysters. Michelin Guide-recognised with a rustic interior and dishes prepared by head chef Richard Sim. Dining inside and out. Dog friendly area.
www.thepottedlobster.co.uk

Creel & Reel Seafood Trailer
A lovely, fresh takeout restaurant with delicious seafood. The menu changes regularly so you’re always in for something new and exciting. It’s only open from 12pm – 3pm from Wednesday to Sunday, but don’t let that stop you from dropping by!
Links Rd, Bamburgh  Tel 07595 981399