A North East village that boasts houses with a “Mediterranean zing” and a standout beach has been revealed among the greatest in Britain, according to The Telegraph.

Alnmouth in Northumberland was praised for being the coastal village that “catches the eye” too – from its small cobbled streets, pubs and plenty of seafood dishes to try.

The publisher commented on its latest guide: “Britain has no shortage of eye-catching villages, but a combination of good looks, convenience for day trippers and a few influential endorsements can be enough to turn what was once a peaceful retreat into an overtourism battleground inundated with selfie stick-wielding tourists from April till October.

“For the Cotswolds, think Castle Combe and Bourton-on-the-Water; for Cornwall, there’s Polperro and Mousehole – all now exist largely to serve tourists, not residents.

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“Fortunately, there are still plenty of beautiful but uncrowded British villages that do retain their authentic character, where medieval pubs and churches remain the beating heart of the community, and where welcoming shopkeepers stock treats from local producers. Here are 30 of the best, chosen by experts from across the country.”

You can see all the 30 greatest villages in Britain here.

Why is Alnmouth one of Britain’s greatest villages?

The Telegraph explained: “Travel on the east coast train line and Alnmouth is the coastal village that catches the eye; its terrace of sorbet-coloured houses gives it a Mediterranean zing.

“Wander down its neat main street, off which dart cobbled lanes, and it’s hard to believe the village was once a busy grain port until a storm, in 1806, altered the course of the River Aln.”


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It added: “Today, it hums with four pubs, a handful of cafes and small restaurants – seafood a speciality – and a smart deli. The village store also includes the Post Office, while the Old School Gallery offers affordable art.

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“And Alnmouth surely has one of the grandest village halls, a former granary converted into a church by the Victorian architect Anthony Salvin (he was working nearby on the Duke of Northumberland’s Alnwick Castle).

“Today, it’s busy with yoga, line dancing and Scouts meetings as well as music gigs and film nights. But the real joy is the beach, which stretches for two sandy miles.”

You can find more information about what Alnmouth has to offer including the best places to stay and eat on The Telegraph’s website.