There are certain places along the Northumberland coast that never fail to draw me back, and for me one of those is The Bathing House at Howick. Perched proudly on a cliff edge, overlooking the ever-changing North Sea, it’s a building full of atmosphere, character, and quiet charm. Every time I walk the coastal path and glimpse it in the distance, I feel inspired to reach for my sketchbook, my paints, and try once again to capture its magic.
A Walk with a View
The Bathing House is set along a particularly lovely stretch of the Northumberland Coast Path. If you’ve walked it yourself, you’ll know how special it feels: a mix of wild seascape, windswept grasses, and rugged shoreline that fills you with both peace and energy. There’s something timeless about this spot — the house seems to stand as a sentinel, keeping watch over the waves below.
What makes it even more fascinating is its history. Built in the early 19th century by Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey (yes — the very same Earl Grey of tea fame and the Reform Act of 1832), the Bathing House was designed as a private retreat for his large family. Sea bathing was fashionable at the time, and here the Greys had their very own secluded spot. Steps were cut into the rock, leading down to a pool that filled with seawater, while the large upstairs sitting room gave Lady Grey a perfect view of her children swimming — and the chance to enjoy tea with the waves rolling in beneath her.
Today, both the Bathing House and its rock-cut pools are Grade II listed, preserved for their historical and architectural importance. Though no longer used as a bathing retreat, the house has found new life as a holiday rental, offering visitors the rare chance to stay in a place steeped in both history and breathtaking scenery. I’d love to stay there one day!
Why It Inspires My Work
As an artist, I’m always searching for those places where nature and architecture come together in harmony, and The Bathing House is one of those rare gems. I love how it looks strong and steadfast against the elements, yet softened by its setting amongst wildflowers, grass, and sea spray.
When I return to my studio after a coastal walk, I carry with me sketches, photographs, and memories of that day’s light and mood. Then the painting process becomes a way of reliving those moments — of translating the feeling of standing there into brushstrokes, colour, and texture.
Four Paintings, Four Perspectives
Over the years, I’ve created four original paintings of The Bathing House, each one capturing a slightly different side of this special place.
Bathing House Beach – New for 2025 this summer painting, with soft skies and gentle seas, an introduction to the calm and timelessness of the setting. This image will be available on Greetings Cards very soon, keep and eye on my social media for updates
Blue Sky at The Bathing House – A bright, expansive piece where the stretch of sky takes centre stage, full of that breezy optimism that comes with a Northumberland summer’s day. This panoramic view has since become a print, available on both paper and canvas.
Northumberland Coast Path – Capturing the house as it glows in the low light of evening, with long autumnal shadows and a reflective, tranquil atmosphere.
The Bathing House A more dramatic take, with powerful colours of the rocks and cliff face with this scene from the Rumbling Kern looking up towards the iconic house.
Together, these paintings form a collection that celebrates the many moods of the Northumberland coast. Just as no two visits feel the same, each canvas tells its own story.
A Piece of the Northumberland Coast at Home
I know that many of you who collect my work feel a deep connection to this coastline too — perhaps from childhood holidays, walking the coast path, or even staying at The Bathing House itself. That’s why it means so much to me to make these scenes available not only as originals but also as giclée prints, so more people can bring a little piece of Northumberland into their homes.
The prints are created with archival-quality paper and Epson pigment inks, so they hold the richness and depth of the original paintings. Every limited-edition piece is signed and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, making it a special keepsake of this remarkable place.
Closing Thoughts
For me, painting The Bathing House is more than just capturing a building on canvas. It’s about holding onto a feeling — that blend of sea air, wide skies, and quiet solitude that makes this part of the world so special.
I know I’ll keep returning to this view with my paints and brushes, discovering something new each time. And I hope that when you look at my paintings, you feel that same pull to the coast — to breathe deeply, to pause, and to be reminded of the beauty on our doorstep.
If you’d like to explore the collection of Bathing House paintings and prints, you can find them in my online gallery here. And if you’re not already subscribed, I’d love for you to join my mailing list, where subscribers always get first access to new originals, prints, and behind-the-scenes updates from the studio.
Here’s to many more walks — and paintings — along the Northumberland coast. 🌊🎨
