The Joiners Arms, High Newton-by-the-Sea, Northumberland

We love that the hotel is well-placed for a choice of beaches, some of which you can reach combined with a breezy walk.

The hotel is in sleepy High Newton-by-the-sea, a short stroll from the beach at Low Newton and The Ship Inn, a pub and brewery offering open fires and live music.
By car: around 1 hour 10 mins from Newcastle, 2 hours from Edinburgh and 6 hours 30 mins from London. There is free parking available nearby.
By train: there are direct train to Alnmouth from Newcastle (25 minutes), Edinburgh (1 hour) and London Kings Cross (3 hours 40 minutes). The hotel is a 25-minute drive from the station. thetrainline.com

Although children are welcome, the hotel is probably best-suited to couples wanting a romantic getaway but with a good pub meal rather than fancy fine dining. A table in the one of the windows of the bar area, with its wood-burning stove, is the cosiest spot.

After a long walk, we love relaxing by the wood-burning stove in the bar with a drink and book or newspaper. Several bedrooms allow dogs, as do both inside and outside bar areas. Bowls are offered plus treats and dog beers - beef or chicken!

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Free Wi-Fi
• Pet-friendly

The Shepherd's Hut is undeniably warm and romantic with pretty painted furniture, a wood-burning stove and hot tub. Each of the 10 rooms is different in furnishings and colours so they feel private and personal.

The Joiner's Arms Rooms, The Joiners Den Rooms, The Rede Shepherd's Hut, Castle View Cottage
Facilities include: king-size bed, ensuite bathroom with shower or bath, luxury toiletries, free Wi-Fi

It's worth considering a starter and dessert (and skipping the massive main courses), as the dessert options include homemade sticky toffee pud. Nobody minds if you ask for a doggy-bag when portion size defeats though!

The Joiners Arms: hearty modern British cuisine, locally sourced produce. Open for lunch and dinner. Mains from £9.95.