The Aln Estuary
The River Aln enters the sea at the picturesque coastal village of Alnmouth. The estuary , mudflats and associated habitats are a superb birdwatching location, especially in the autumn and winter months. Large numbers of waders frequent the muddy areas whilst the dunes and saltmarsh can often attract snow bunting and shorelark.
Winter birding
Alnmouth is situated about 4 miles south-east of Alnwick. There are several locations to explore with the best areas situated around the estuary. Allow 4 -5 hours. A good starting point is to drive to and park at Buston Links Dunes on the south side of the estuary. This is a rough track east off the A1068. This is best at low tide . Look for stonechat, parties of twite and possibly snow bunting and occasional shorelark. On returning to Alnmouth, park at the car park next to the cricket club and head along a footpath adjacent to the road towards the bridge crossing the river Aln. The rough vegetation, reeds and standing water attracts reed bunting, warblers in summer and regular barn owl. Geese may be present in the opposite wet fields and flooded gullys.
From the bridge it is possible to scan the entire wetland area and the estuary on it's north side. Once over the bridge, cross the road and take the footpath that skirts the river leading into the village. Good numbers of wintering waders will be present along with wildfowl and grebes. The rock pools can sometimes produce hovering kingfisher. There are several restaurants, pubs, a gifts shop, tea room and an art gallery.
Birds you may hear at Alnmouth
Alnmouth is best visited in the winter months and autumn migration.Large numbers of wading birds are present on the estuary, along with wildfowl, finch flocks and grebes.
