The pretty town with 'beautiful beach' just 40 minutes from major UK city

If you're looking for a stunning autumn destination, you can't miss out on a trip to this town.

Located on the north east coast of England, this town is a quiet coastal spot - and it's just 40 minutes away from Newcastle - a thriving city.

Alnwick is home to a popular beach, a huge castle and the famous Alnwick Gardens.

You won't find its beach crowded with tourists either. Instead, this rugged stretch of coastline remains a spot largely undiscovered by visitors.

One person on Tripadvisor said: "Beautiful beach with stunning views next to the lovely Alnmouth.

"Great for dogs and well located for many other sights including Alnwick castle, Craster and Dunstanburgh, Bamburgh, Seahouses and the unmissable Farne Islands. Highly recommended!"

Alnwick is home to charming cobbled streets and independent shops, which make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day of exploring Northumberland's heritage.

World Wide Schooling says: "Alnwick is one of the best places to stay and enjoy Northumberland's greatest delights, where you'll find the 11th-century Alnwick castle and postcard-perfect scenery.

"Better yet, Alnwick isn't far from Northumberland's pristine coastline. It might also be worth noting that Alnwick Castle is featured in Harry Potter."

If you plan to visit the castle, it has a fascinating history. Its legacy spans nearly 1,000 years, with the first written document of the site being recorded in the year 1138.

Alnwick is just a short drive from Newcastle, making it easy to enjoy both a peaceful market town and a vibrant city in the same trip.

In Newcastle, you can visit well-known landmarks such as the Tyne Bridge and the Quayside, along with exploring its shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Next time you're looking for an exciting destination, Alnwick is not to be overlooked.