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Michael Portillo travels the length of the magnificent Northumbrian coastline with its glorious beaches and grandiose castles.

In the village of Alnmouth, he takes to the waves in a traditional skiff built by dedicated members of the Alnmouth Coastal Rowing Club. They鈥檙e training to compete in the World Championships in a boat based on a design from Fair Isle. Michael has to learn fast to stay afloat.

The Aln Valley heritage railway conveys Michael to Alnwick, crossing a 170-year-old viaduct built by Robert Stephenson. From the historic cobbled town with its imposing castle, Michael heads for the beach at Boulmer to hear about threats to this low-lying coastline and efforts to protect it from sea erosion and tidal surges.

Next stop for Michael is Chathill, which serves the 19th-century port of Seahouses, from which boats depart for the Farne Islands. Along this rocky coastline, Michael heads for the Olde Ship Inn to discover a fascinating map which charts the wrecks of many ships.

The mighty Bamburgh Castle, icon of Northumberland, is Michael鈥檚 last destination today. Once the seat of Northumbrian kings, the castle building was begun by the Normans, and since the late 19th century, has been in the hands of the Armstrong family. Michael meets the castle鈥檚 current keeper to hear about its history and admire its magnificent King鈥檚 Hall.