Activities

The North East coast captivated thriller-writer Val McDermid when she visited during filming on Wire in the Blood – so she decided to move there.

'There’s miles and miles and miles of sandy beach, generally mostly empty. Astonishing vistas, great views of castles, of dunes, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world,' she said.

Low Newton in Northumberland is a favourite spot for Val and her border terrier Mel, not only for the exercise but also for the inspiration it provides.

'I find walking by water is somehow helpful to the creative flow. Maybe it’s something to do with the movement of water but I always find that when I’m stuck when I’m writing, walking by the sea really helps.'

Download Val's walk (pdf) and try it out for yourself.