If you’re a fan of locally sourced, top-quality food, you’re going to love Bertram’s in Warkworth, Northumberland. I’ve previously shared how much I love both the Potted Lobster in Bamburgh and the Whittling House in Alnmouth, and the same guys have recently taken over Bertram’s too. 

Disclaimer: I received a complementary meal in exchange for an instagram review which you can view here.

I was invited along to try their menu recently, and it was more than worth the trip up the coast for it. If you’ve been to either of their other restaurants, you’ll know exactly what to expect: a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and hearty dishes that really stand out for quality. 

They’ve definitely brought those qualities with them to Bertram’s in Warkworth, and combined with a modern atmosphere but keeping the features of their unique locations, as well as dog friendly areas of the restaurants that are always popular, we have another Northumberland winner.

Bertram’s is right in the heart of Warkworth, one of the most picturesque towns along the Northumberland coast, and its central location means it’s easy to find. There is parking right next door in front of the church and along by the river. Make a day of it and visit the castle, do the river walk, and visit some of the nearby pubs too for a pre dinner drink. I’d recommend the Masons Arms.

Back to Bertram’s and the restaurant itself is gorgeous, in the stone building with cosy fireplaces, cottage style windows and a dog friendly area that feels just the same as the rest of the restaurant. It would be lovely for a casual meal – they have a daytime courtyard menu, breakfast – many people told me their breakfasts are amazing when I shared my experience on Instagram, and more of an occasion or evening meal.

That’s what I was there for and the menu didn’t disappoint. It had a well-rounded selection, a lot of which is sourced from the best of Northumberland’s local produce, and plenty of choice that means you’ll need time to browse and decide. There were so many tempting options, but to start I went for the oxtail and haggis croquettes with Worcester cream. They were absolutely amazing, really crispy on the outside, strong flavours and a cracking dipping sauce. 

Honestly, I would go back just for those again, but other starter options included North Sea squid, soup of the day with sourdough, pan fried scallops, roast pepper and burrata on a toasted muffin – all of which sounded equally delicious.

For my main, I chose the sirloin beef with proper chips. The steak was cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, served with fat cut chips you get in great restaurants. My only comment would be that it didn’t come with any steak side sauce which I always like, but it was still really tasty. 

Other options on the menu for main course included North Sea cod, crab-crusted hake, buttered chicken and a slow-cooked blade of beef with truffle mash which I was very tempted by. These are just a few, there were nine choices in total with various sides, including some seasonal choices and vegetarian options.

Even though I was pretty full by the end of the main course, I did have dessert because they had raspberry ripple roll so I couldn’t resist. The perfect way to finish the meal after my steak. The wine list at Bertram’s is another highlight, I only had a glass as I was driving but if you’re staying up there or aren’t driving you could make the most of a very good selection. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my meal, and it’s always great for me when I can take Arthur along with me. The dog friendly end was full – actually the whole restaurant was from pretty much 6pm. Make sure you book if you want to go as you would be disappointed if they can’t fit you in as a walk in. It’s just like their other locations – the constantly booked tables tell you how good the food is.

All in all, Bertram’s in Warkworth offers a fantastic dining experience that is well worth the trip, whether you’re a local or visiting Northumberland. The staff were lovely and so were the locals that did come in. If you haven’t been yet, add it to your list of must-visit Northumberland food spots to try, you’ll be pleased you did.

You can find all the details of Bertram’s in Warkworth, including how to book and their menus for each meal on their website here.

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Where to eat on the Northumberland Coast

Northumberland Seafood at the Potted Lobster, Bamburgh