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The story of Amble goes back to the very early days of Northumberland's history.
There is evidence of prehistoric burial grounds on the links, and at Gloster Hill there are signs that the Romans once lived there.
Picturesquely sited at the mouth of the river Coquet, Amble was little more than a hamlet before the construction of its harbour (originally known as
Warkworth
Harbour) between 1838 and 1839, although a harbour has probably existed
as far back as the 14th century.
The town owes its growth and prosperity to the 19th century coalfields from which it used to ship coal to southern England and the Continent, but as this declined so did the fortunes of the town.
The development of an award-winning marina on the site of the former staithes has brought new life to the town, and it is once again a busy harbour town.
Today, Amble is Northumberland's most important fishing centre north of the Tyne, and leisure sailing has also become important,
the town has many good shops, pubs and ideal fast food and restaurants.
There are walks along the River Coquet to Warkworth and south past the harbour and Little Shore following the coastline to Hauxley with views of Coquet Island.
There are nature reserves at Hauxley and Druridge Bay. Wide open spaces on
The Braid adjacent to the marina and at Druridge Country Park with its lake, visitor centre, picnic areas and access to quiet sandy beaches.
Lying a mile offshore are Coquet Island and its 80 ft high lighthouse, which is built on the top of the ruin of a medieval tower. It is an RSPB reserve for thousands of puffins, terns, eider ducks and the roseate tern, one of Britain's rare seabirds.
Puffin Cruises (01665 711975) operate regular boat trips around Coquet Island from Amble harbour throughout the summer season (subject to weather and tides),
however landing on the island is not possible.
Amble has a variety of holiday accommodation available, including...
Guesthouses, bed and breakfast, and a variety of self-catering facilities are available within and also close by Amble. A caravan and camping site is located at Amble Links, adjacent to coast and harbour. A few miles to the south is Cresswell Towers Holiday Park, offering fun and relaxation for all the family.
Useful Links...
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