The tiny UK seaside village with a gorgeous harbour and Britain's 'best' kippers
The remote settlement had a population of just 305 in the 2011 census, and is known for its dramatic, rugged beauty, and serene surroundings
A remote fishing village in the North East of England boasts a beautiful harbour - and is said to be the best place in the country for kippers. Craster is a tiny settlement on the Northumberland Coast, located some 13km from Alnwick.
Located within the Northumberland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the village had a population of just 305 in the 2011 census, and is known for its dramatic, rugged beauty, and serene surroundings. The area is perhaps best known for its Craster Kippers which use a traditional smoking process.
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L Robson and Sons, a family enterprise which dates back to 1865, is synonymous with the classic local dish.
The local firm has been mastering its distinctive herring-curing method in original smokehouses for 170 years, and it remains a major pull for visitors, as reported by ChronicleLive.
One person who came to the village in 2023 wrote on TripAdvisor that it was "well worth a visit to Robsons to buy smoked fish."
"The quality and taste of their fish is second to none," they added. "We went there to buy some hot smoked salmon which is phenomenal. However we ended up buying smoked mackerel and smoked cod and haddock, spending nearly £100.
"The service is excellent, friendly and welcoming. If you like smoked fish this is the place to go, none of that awful dyed fish, just traditionally smoked and delicious."
Another said the shop has the "Best kippers in the world".
"Nothing beats Craster kippers. To be honest that is all this review needs to say but I have to keep inputting.........done it," they added.
A third said: "Surely the best smokery in the North East. I had distant memories of coming here with my Grandpa years ago. The visit brought it all back and I took home breakfast!"
The village's pictureseque harbour is still an active port, with stone breakwaters protecting fishing vessels from the waves.
You'll also find pretty grey stone cottages, and plenty to explore, including local galleries and small cafes.
Many visitors come for the the 1.3-mile coastal walk that begins close to the habour and leads to the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, a spectacular 14th-century fortification which is visible throughout.
The path follows the shoreline with views the North Sea on one side and rolling farmland on the other. The route flat is "a great choice for a gentle stroll", according to Visit Northumberland. However, it can be exposed during windy conditions.
