'Secret' swimming spot in North East coastal village goes 'unnoticed' by visitors
The North East coast has endless serene swimming spots to take a dip in during the summer months.
But did you know there is a 'hidden' rock pool in Northumberland?
Located in the small fishing village of Craster, and along the coastal path on the way to Dunstanburgh Castle, lies a 'crazy' swimming spot that 'goes mostly unnoticed'.
@m.eathaan, who is an outdoors and travel enthusiast content creator on TikTok, detailed: 'These incredible rock pools are one of the North East's hidden gems and are located just an hours drive from Newcastle.
'To get to them you can park up in the small fishing town of Craster and follow the coastal walk up to Dunstanburgh Castle.
'About 10 minutes into the walk, you can drop down onto the rocks and you'll find this crazy swimming spot which goes mostly unnoticed by the tourists walking to the castle up above.
'As a bonus, you can head into Craster to try some of the amazing kippers which the town is famous for and I'd recommend going to a little takeaway spot called Piper's Pitch after you've had a swim in the rock pools for some amazing kippers.'
One TikTok profile responded: 'Geordie here. Walked to the castle many times but never knew about the rock pool!'
Another shared: 'One of my favourite walks, park up breakfast butty, Walk to the castle, get some smoked haddock soup in the cafe.'
A third commented: 'Wow, I did not know about this, thank you for telling us!'
As @m.eathaan mentioned above, Craster is famous for its delicious kippers (and the Royal Family are even fans) as Visit Northumberland explains: 'Follow your nose to L. Robson & Sons kipper smokehouse, and embark on a delicious visit to the Northumberland coast.
'The kippers here are a delicacy which is exported to food lovers across the country, and it is reputedly popular with the British Royal Family.'
The tourism website adds: 'Once you've taken in the charcoal scent of the traditional Craster smokehouse, wander towards the magnificent Dunstanburgh Castle.
'Though there is only a pocket-sized chunk of the castle remaining, it gives such an insight into what was once a grand fortress.
Have you been to see the remains of Dunstanburgh Castle? (Image: Getty) 'Seeing this little gem as it stands today makes it almost impossible to believe that it was originally built to an impractically magnificent scale.'
Visitors can also go bird spotting at the Arnold Memorial Nature Reserve, owned by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, or browse seaside-inspired arts and crafts at The Mick Oxley Gallery.
Plus, you can sit and watch fishing boats peacefully floating near the picturesque Craster harbour with the 'beautiful' Dunstanburgh Castle as the backdrop.
Recommended reading:
Secret North East beach known for 'stunning' scenery among UK's best (and remote)
'Pretty amazing' North East coastal spot crowned England's best hidden gem
North East seaside town with 'treasure' of a beach crowned UK's best for 5 years
It's important to note this 'hidden' rock pool is surrounded by a rocky area, so take extra care when approaching.
You should also visit the RNLI website for wild swimming/open water safety advice before you get into the water and follow these swimming safety tips:
Be prepared. Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, have the right equipment
If in doubt, don't go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn't feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering
Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock
Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float
Stay within your depths
Float to live. If you get into difficulty in the water and are in shock, turn onto your back and tilt your head back in the water, submerging your ears. Relax and try to breathe normally, using your hands to helps you stay afloat. Wait until the shock passes then call for help or swim to safety
Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency
Visit the RNLI website for more information.
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