The Forgotten Past of Rumbling Kern

A closely guarded secret amongst Northumberland coast connoisseurs, Rumbling Kern is a small sandy beach found in a rocky cove south of Cullernose Point near Howick. Sheltered behind small cliffs that face inland from the sea, the secluded location was once a favoured drop-off point for whisky smugglers bootlegging contraband up and down the coastline. The name “Rumbling Kern” aptly captures one of the beach’s most distinctive auditory features. In rough weather, pummelling north sea waves surge into the steep-sided chasms carved out of the rock face, bellowing a deep thunderous noise as loud as the name suggests. 

The location also enjoys impressive views of the picturesque Bathing House, an early 19th century abode built by former British Prime Minister, Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey. The nearby Howick Hall was the Earl’s ancestral home and Rumbling Kern was a favoured recreation jaunt for his large family, so much so that he built a house here for them all to enjoy the outdoors together. Two rock-cut pools were created on instruction from the Earl to extend the tidal swimming space and supply the pools with fresh seawater. The house was even designed with an upstairs sitting room so Lady Grey could check on her 15 children swimming in the pools below.

The surrounding landscapes are some of the most rugged and geologically interesting you will find on the Northumberland Coast. The extensive network of pools, gullies and steep cliffs make the area a popular location for adventure activities such as bouldering and coasteering.

Read more about Northumberland’s hidden beaches in This Is Northumberland 2025