PepsCreative

Kindred

I spent a chilly couple of hours on Boulmer beach sketching this traditional Northumberland Coble, owned by Ian McQueen, one of two Boulmer families who have fished the bay for generations, hauling crabs from these waters.

The Fishing Boat Inn, a few hundred yards along the beach and reputedly a former smuggling den, was the perfect place to thaw out afterwards.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Boulmer was one of Northumberland’s most notorious smuggling hotspots. Local fishermen, known as “Free Traders”, brought in contraband goods like brandy, tobacco, and silk under the cover of darkness. Now it’s a quiet spot, ideal for walking, bird and seal watching and exploring the rock pools.

I also took time out to quickly sketch the holiday cottage we often stay at, which is adjoined to the Fishing boat Inn, which is handy!