Boulmer is a coastal village whose character is shaped by its beach, rocky coastline and fishing history. Boulmer Haven is one of the fine sandy beaches that interrupt the rocky coast in the surrounding area. A gap in the sandstone reef provides shelter for boats. This brings fine sand and a sandstone reef together along the same stretch of coast.
The village is defined by a cluster of single-storey houses where Boulmer’s fishermen lived. The fishermen’s houses stand on dunes just above sea level. The historic village centre has changed little over the past hundred years. The location of the houses connects the village layout directly with the coastal landscape.
Beach, walks and trails
National Cycle Route 1 passes through Boulmer, as does the long-distance St Oswald’s Way. This offers various ways to combine your trip with a cycling or walking tour. Check the current route markers before setting out. The beach and dunes are also used for walking dogs. Conditions and access may vary seasonally—something to bear in mind when planning a walk.
Tidal flats, geology and coastal landscape
The tidal flats at Boulmer Haven are especially rich in species relative to their size and support high biodiversity. The geology also appears in varied forms: light yellow sandstone with folded strata and slump structures is exposed in the coastal foreland. A small Whin Sill intrusion near the lifeboat station becomes visible at low tide. If you want to see this particular geological feature, be sure to consider the tide level when planning your visit.
The coast at Boulmer lies in an area formerly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); its current designation is National Landscape. Together with the sandy beach, dunes and tidal flats, this coastal landscape shapes the character of the village.
Traces of wartime and village history
Boulmer airfield was established as a dummy airfield in 1940 to divert enemy aircraft from RAF Acklington. The anti-tank blocks at Boulmer Haven also date from the Second World War. Together with other defensive installations, they were intended to impede or prevent enemy landings. At least ten of these blocks stand at the upper edge of the beach below the dunes, where they now help protect the coast.
The village’s history also includes less visible maritime traditions. Local coble boats are still used to catch crabs, lobsters and sea trout; fishing remains subject to local conditions. The Boulmer Voluntary Rescue Service continues the village’s maritime rescue tradition. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Boulmer was known for smuggling: traders came here to collect illegal goods such as gin and spirits. The village hall adds to these historical traces as a First World War hut.
Discover more destinations: Blanchland, Wylam, Seahouses, Glanton, Bardon Mill, Kirknewton, Belford, Hepple.
For the regional travel overview: Northumberland.
