Bamburgh Castle is situated atop a basalt crag overlooking a long stretch of pristine beach. The castle was once a ruin, having suffered extensively during the Wars of the Roses and was subsequently allowed to slowly deteriorate. However, work begun in the 18th century restored the castle to its former glory. It is now one of the most recognisable castles in the UK. Low-tide exposes rock ledges that make the shore a fascinating but hazardous place to wander.