#23 Go on holiday

In the spirit of post-Covid abandon I went on two holidays! Both were to Northumberland, an area of the country that I feel so drawn to, that I am considering retiring there. Perhaps that goal will make it onto the 60 list.

My first trip was at Christmas, to a static caravan with stunning sea views at Newbiggin-By-The-Sea. The caravan was cosy and comfortable, just big enough for me, the dog and the excessive amount of festive food and drink that I had transported up with us.

I had found the accommodation on Airbnb and our host had thought of everything: a Christmas tree all lit up for our arrival, extra blankets, dog treats, a hamper of Prosecco and sweet and savoury treats, everything needed for breakfast and even binoculars for a closer look at the sea life
right outside our window.

As it turned out these luxuries were needed as the weather did not cooperate. It was wet and stormy for most of the week and besides the daily, blustery dog walk on the beach I spent the majority of the time watching the seascape change through the window.

However there is something special about watching waves crash against the rocks just metres away, while the wind and rain batter against the glass. Nothing could have been more welcome than those seven days of rest and peace: reading, knitting and sipping a glass of something delicious while enjoying all the beauty and drama of the North Sea coast from my sofa.

I returned to Northumberland at Easter, my visit perfectly timed to catch the improved weather but be early enough to allow unrestricted beach walking with the dog. This time I stayed at a small cottage inland, near the village of Cramlington.

Our favourite place was Cambois Beach. A beautiful expanse of soft, deep golden
sand with free parking alongside and a café that sold the very best fish and chips. The beach became a daily pleasure, as did chatting to the other dog walkers. 

Travelling without human company can be a very quiet affair but the locals here were so friendly, many recommending dog friendly cafés, restaurants and attractions for the rest of our holiday. Our best recommendation was a boat trip around the Farne Islands, and Missy had her first experience of boat travel.

It is fair to say that she is not a natural sailor, although the noisy, swaying boat packed with humans must have been confusing for a little dog. However I had the chance to see puffins and grey seals in the wild for the first time and the experience was breathtaking.

I am already planning my next trip to Northumberland, perhaps this time I might get the opportunity to cross over to Holy Island or see Hadrian's Wall. I may even see the dolphins that are spotted daily around this part of the coast but which have evaded me so far!