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A Perfect Day on the Northumberland Coast with Tyne To Summit: 25 Hikers, Sunshine, and Guinness Cake!

This past weekend, Tyne To Summit delivered yet another unforgettable experience, and we couldn’t have asked for a better day. With an impressive turnout of 25 enthusiastic hikers and a bunch of new fresh faces, we set off from Craster, ready to embark on a magical 6-mile loop that had us taking in some of the most stunning scenery Northumberland has to offer.

We kicked things off in the charming village of Craster, a place steeped in history and coastal beauty. From there, the path led us along the rugged coastline, with breath-taking views of the North Sea on one side and lush, rolling fields on the other. The sun shone brightly, bathing the trail in warmth and proving once again that the Tyne To Summit crew must have some secret deal with the weatherman—seriously, how do we keep getting these perfect days?

Community, all heading towards the iconic Dunstanburgh Castle

Our first stop was none other than the iconic Dunstanburgh Castle, a 700-year-old ruin that looms proudly over the coastline. As we approached, we couldn’t help but reflect on who else might have walked these steps centuries before us. With each stride, it felt like we were part of a story much bigger than our Saturday hike. The castle’s dramatic silhouette against the clear blue sky was the perfect reminder of Northumberland’s rich history, and we paused to take it all in (and, of course, capture some epic group photos).

Dunstanburgh Castle in all her glory

But the real MVP of the day? Steph and her now-legendary homemade Guinness cake. Halfway through the hike, just when we needed a boost, she pulled out that rich, decadent masterpiece that she’d spent most of Friday night making whilst Scott sat and watched the football (guilty), and suddenly, it felt like we could all conquer anything. Fuelled by chocolatey Irish goodness and the magic of camaraderie, we continued our journey along the low-level scenic path, arriving at the secluded gem that is Embleton Bay Beach.

Steph dishing out the iconic Guiness Cake!

With golden sands stretching as far as the eye could see and the gentle sound of waves lapping the shore, it was hard to believe such a tranquil spot existed just a short walk from the historic castle. Some of us kicked off our boots and took a moment to rest, playing with the dogs that joined us on the hike while others couldn’t resist dipping their toes in the sea. This was the kind of hike that leaves you feeling connected not only to nature but to each other.

As the day came to a close, the hike had been such a success that many of the gang weren’t ready to leave. A spontaneous gathering formed back in Craster, where a bunch of the lovely lasses that joined us gathered to share food, drinks, and stories of the day’s adventures. It’s moments like this that remind us what Tyne To Summit is all about. People come as strangers but leave as friends, bonded by a shared love for the outdoors and the simple joy of exploring together.

We’re building something really special here at Tyne To Summit, and we’re so grateful for the incredible community that’s growing around us. The messages of support keep pouring in, and it’s truly humbling to see how much these events mean to everyone who takes part.

For those who missed out this time, don’t worry—October is shaping up to be an even bigger month with two exciting events (that’s right, not one but TWO) on the horizon! Keep an eye on our socials for updates, because if the past few hikes are anything to go by, tickets are going to fly.

Until next time, keep your boots laced and your spirit adventurous – it’s almost Tyne To Summit!

The North East Coastline