Northern Lights at Budle Bay
On a clear night, the Northern Lights can put on a dramatic display in the night sky. Here’s what our guests have been able to see.
Filmed from Budle Bay on 10 October 2026.
Where to see the Northern Lights in Northumberland
The northern lights aren’t just for Iceland and Norway. On the right night, the aurora borealis can be seen from right here at Budle Bay, one of the best spots on the Northumberland coast to watch them.
Dark skies, a wide view north across the water and very little between you and the horizon make Budle Bay a natural viewing spot for this spectacular sight. Pull on a jumper, grab a flask and step outside your cottage or lodge to enjoy the dramatic night sky.
When is it best to see the Northern Lights in Northumberland?
The darker months, from roughly September to March, give you the best chance to see the northern lights in Northumberland. Long nights mean more hours of darkness to watch in. Displays are often strongest between about 10pm and 2am, but they can appear any time after dark.
The aurora is never guaranteed. It depends on activity on the sun and on clear skies, and it can come and go within minutes. That’s part of the magic, and why a few nights on the coast give you a better chance than one.
Why Budle Bay?
A clear northern view
The aurora appears low on the northern horizon, and Budle Bay gives you an uninterrupted view across the sea.
DARK SKIES
Away from town lights, the stars, Milky Way and the aurora all stand out without interruption.
YOUR OWN FRONT-ROW SEATS
Our guests have use of a privately owned sandy beach, so the best seat in the house is only steps away from your front door.
How to catch the Northern Lights in Northumberland
Live From Budle Bay
Wondering what the sky’s doing right now? Our <b>LIVE</b> web cam shares the views over Budle Bay throughout the day and night, so we’d highly recommend bookmarking this before you head out, or, you can simply enjoy the view from home.
Please note that the aurora is never guaranteed. Its visibility depends on activity on the sun and on clear skies, and it can come and go within minutes, but that’s all part of the magic, and why a few nights on the coast will give you a better chance to see them than one.
Want to see how the northern lights unfolded on 10 October 2026?
Stay for the Views
Watch the sky from the beach, then head back to a warm cottage. Better still, watch the northern lights from your hot tub!
All our cottages are dog friendly, and Budle Bay is just a short drive from our resort in Lucker. This is where you’ll find our award-winning pub, The Apple Inn, where a log burner crackles whilst you’re enjoying traditional pub food – and of course, dogs are always welcome!
FAQs
Can you really see the northern lights in Northumberland?
Yes! Northumberland’s dark skies and northerly position make it one of the best places in England to see the aurora, and our video shows it lighting up the sky over Budle Bay. Take a look at our video below for proof!
When is the best time to see the northern lights at Budle Bay?
On clear, dark nights between about September and March, usually between 10pm and 2am. Sign up for AuroraWatch UK alerts to know when activity is high.
Can I see the aurora from my cottage?
The best views are from the beach or anywhere facing north across the bay, a short walk from our Budle Bay cottages and lodges.
Do I need a special camera?
No. Most modern phones capture the aurora well in night mode. Keep the phone still and give it a few seconds.
Are the northern lights guaranteed?
Sadly not. The aurora depends on solar activity and clear skies. Staying a few nights gives you the best chance.
Northern Lights in Budle Bay
As seen on 10 October 2026