Ross Back Sands is a glorious expanse of unspoilt beach, generally deserted because access to it is on foot rather than by car.

To get to the beach, park your car at Ross Farm and then follow the road on foot past the farm buildings and cottages, follow the path through the fields, and then finally across the dunes to the beach. The walk from Ross Farm to the beach is approximately 1.5 miles.

You can then walk for miles along the beach, with cracking views of Lindisfarne to the north, and Bamburgh Castle to the south. If you get as far as the point to the north, you’ll get an excellent view across the water to Lindisfarne Castle, and may also get a closer look at the many seals that regularly haul out on the deserted sands.

It’s worth bearing in mind that dogs should be kept under control on the beach, as it’s a common nesting site for sea birds and also popular with seals. Dogs also need to be kept under control on the walk to the beach itself, as the path crosses through fields of grazing cattle.

Finding Ross Farm can be tricky so check a map before you leave. Basically head north from Budle and keep right. You’ll see a very subtle sign pointing you in the direction of Ross Farm.