Captains Lodge

The salt wind off the North Sea reaches you before you see the waves — Newbiggin's beach stretches long and wild just beyond, with that particular Northumberland light that turns everything silver and gold at once.

This is a proper seaside base for couples or small families wanting the coast without the fuss — a guest house with camping pods for those after something a bit different. You're in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, a working coastal town that's kept its character, with the promenade, the UK's first offshore sculpture, and miles of sand when the tide pulls back. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth asking when you book if you've got one in tow.

The facilities aren't spelled out in detail, so best to ask what's provided in the pods versus the guest house rooms. Campfires need checking on arrival — they'll let you know what's allowed. Open all year, which matters on this coast when winter storms are half the drama and spring mornings are pin-sharp and perfect.