For divers, the Berwickshire and North Northumberland coast is home to some of the most spectacular marine habitats and species in the UK and has earned special recognition status as a European Marine Site (EMS).

It’s 71-mile stretch from Alnmouth to Fast Head Castle takes in the Farne Islands, Holy Island, St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve.

Shore dives and boat dives, for the novice through to advanced level, are well catered for through centres at St Abbs, Eyemouth, Amble and Blyth.

And boat operators also provide an excellent programme of marine and wreck dives. The same high quality facilities can be tapped for those who prefer to stay above the waterline and go fishing.

At award winning Coldingham Bay, just north of Eyemouth, the waters are enjoying a growing reputation with the surfing community.

For walkers there are dedicated routes along the entire length of the coastline notably the 30-mile Berwickshire Coastal Path from Cocksburn Path to Berwick-upon-Tweed and the charmingly named Castles and Kippers Walk, a gentle eight mile trail that heads south from Embleton Bay via Dunstanburgh Castle to Craster - famous for its kippers.

In our Coastlines section we’ll be featuring information and first hand experiences of the marine menu on offer to the visitor, as well as providing links that will help you plan ahead for the trip of lifetime.