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Description
In Bamburgh wintering waders and sea ducks are a speciality, best seen from Stag Rocks, a low rocky promontory 1 km northwest of the village. Regular sightings include Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Great Northern Diver, and Slavonian Grebe. A large flock of Purple Sandpiper is also regular there, and single vagrant Black Scoter and Bonaparte's Gull have been returning visitors in late autumn and winter for the last 12 years (the Bonaparte's Gull has returned for its 12th season in October 2024). Sea-watching is also excellent, for ducks, gulls and divers in particular. Another 2 km further on is the tidal Budle Bay, attracting wintering waders and wildfowl. In winter the fields surrounding Budle Bay attract wildfowl, especially Pink-footed Goose, Barnacle Goose, and Whooper Swan. Raptors and owls are seen regularly.
Details
Access
Main car parking at east end of village, with smaller parking available off lane west, towards Bamburgh Golf Club. Parking for Budle Bay is at Waren Mill, on the B1342. Bamburgh is accessible by bus - services X18 (Newcastle to Berwick, via a coastal route) and 418 (Alnwick to Belford). Nearest rail station is at Berwick, 20km north, from where it is possible to cycle, but advisable to avoid using the A1 trunk road.
When using the coastal public footpath north from Stag Rocks, beware of golf balls; keep an eye out for golfers and respect their play.
Terrain and Habitat
Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Sea , Dunes , Beach , Mud flatsConditions
Flat , Open landscape , High water possible , Sandy , RockyCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Winter , Spring migration , AutumnRoute
Narrow trail , Wide path , Paved road , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Bicycle , Car , FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The name Stag Rocks derives from a white painting of a stag on the rocks just above the high water mark, southeast of the lighthouse.