Kayaking – Dunstanburgh Castle
A peaceful, gentle sea kayaking trip from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle, giving you the rare chance to see this iconic Northumberland landmark from the sea. If conditions allow, we may also land and head up to the castle itself.
A scenic paddle with proper Northumberland character
This is one of our most peaceful kayaking trips — a gentle paddle from Craster to see Dunstanburgh Castle from the sea, with the added bonus of seasonal seabirds around Castle Point and one of our best chances of spotting seals.
It is ideal for adults who want a relaxed coastal experience with scenery, wildlife and the simple pleasure of travelling along the shoreline at an easy pace.
Not sure if this is the right trip?
This is a calm, scenic paddle with one of the best castle views on the coast. If you want more kayaking options, browse all kayaking options.
What to expect from the trip
Castle from the sea
Practical details
Usually 10:00 or 13:30, around 3 hours. We choose the best route for the day’s wind, swell and tide.
This is an adults-only trip, designed for people who want a peaceful coastal paddle with time for photos, wildlife moments and the experience of seeing Dunstanburgh from the sea.
£50 adults. Private groups from £140. Final price is shown when you choose your booking option.
We mainly run May to October. Certain times of year can bring nesting seabirds around Castle Point, and this is also one of our most regular areas for spotting seals.
Kayak, paddle, wetsuit and buoyancy aid, plus briefing and coaching as needed, with time for stops when conditions allow.
If conditions are suitable we may land and head up to the castle. If not, the trip still offers a memorable paddle and one of the best sea-level views on the coast.
Available Monday to Friday from May to 10 July. For other dates or times, please contact us to discuss options.
Meet at our base near Craster NE66 3SS, adjacent to HM Coastguard Station. Changing rooms and toilets are available. Please do not confuse this with the lifeboat station. Full directions are sent after booking.
Why choose the Dunstanburgh Castle paddle?
This trip offers one of the most distinctive viewpoints on the Northumberland coast: Dunstanburgh Castle seen from the sea. The combination of open water, cliffs, castle ruins and wildlife makes it feel quietly special without needing to be high adrenaline.
It is a great choice for adults who want a calmer experience with strong scenery, a little wildlife luck and the feeling of being properly out on the coast at sea level.
A taste of the trip
Castle views, gentle paddling and some of the richest wildlife moments on the coast.
Iconic view
Gentle coastal paddle
Seal spotting
Kayaking – Dunstanburgh Castle FAQs
Is this a gentle kayaking trip?
Yes. This is one of our calmer, more scenic paddles, designed to feel relaxed and enjoyable rather than rushed or overly technical.
Can you land and go up to the castle?
Sometimes. If tides, swell and landing conditions are suitable, we may be able to land and head up to the castle. This is never guaranteed and always depends on the day’s conditions.
Will we see wildlife?
We often see seals in this area, and at certain times of year Castle Point can be rich with nesting seabirds. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but this is one of our best routes for it.
Who is this trip suitable for?
This is an adults-only trip and works especially well for people wanting a peaceful coastal paddle with scenery, wildlife and a memorable castle view from the sea.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear for under your wetsuit, a towel and any personal medication. We provide the kayak, paddle, wetsuit and buoyancy aid.
What happens if conditions are unsuitable?
Safety comes first. If sea or weather conditions are not suitable, we will offer a reschedule or suitable alternative wherever possible, with refunds handled in line with our terms.
Check dates & book
Booking basics
Select Book now to view live availability and continue to the booking page. If you’re unsure which option to choose or need a private group instead, send us an enquiry and we’ll help.
Season & wildlife: We mainly run May to October. This trip is especially rewarding during the seabird nesting season around Castle Point, and it is also one of our best areas for regular seal sightings.
Private groups: available Monday to Friday from May to 10 July. If you are interested in private groups at other times, please use the enquiry link and we’ll be happy to discuss options.
Single ticket bookings: if only one place is booked, the session will not run unless additional participants also book onto it. We will be in touch as soon as possible to discuss options.
Conditions-led: landing options, route and wildlife opportunities depend on wind, swell and tide on the day.
Safety first: If conditions mean we can’t run your session, we’ll offer a reschedule or suitable alternatives. If we can’t accommodate changes, we’ll refund in line with our terms.