Alnwick Restaurant Guide

This “very traditional” early Victorian seaside pub specialises in “wonderful local seafood” – and is “very welcoming on a cold day”, when its “warm fire and a bowl of chowder” are just the ticket. Former pro rugby player David Whitehead had his first job here, and returned as owner 11 years ago.

“A lovely setting on the Coquet estuary” makes Martin & Ruth Charlton’s 12-year-old quayside spot a popular choice for eating seafood (“their nearby Fish Shack is also great”). But one or two regulars are beginning to wonder if “it’s getting a bit too big” for comfort.

“Great fish and shellfish” – in particular, locally caught lobsters – are the lure at chef Richard Sim’s unpretentious spot, “with dishes paying tribute to the quality of their produce”. It can be “tricky to get into these days in summertime, which reflects the restaurant’s excellent (and well deserved) reputation”.

2022 Review: FKA ‘Sea Salt’, this relative newbie on the growing local scene, in a “welcoming environment near Amble harbour”, is run by couple Julie Lunn-Bird (FOH) and Jonny Bird (who trained under Albert Roux). The “interesting” bistro-style menu often features fresh fish alongside the regular menu of burgers, steaks, salads etc.