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Boulmer was notorious for its smuggling activities, much of this illicit trade was centred around the infamous Fishing Boat Inn. In the 18th century, one of the most well-known smugglers was William Faa, king of the gypsy community. He lived some miles away in the remote Scottish village of Kirk Yetholm. Very much a traditional Northumbrian fishing village, Boulmer was once the haunt of smugglers.

During the 18th and 19th centuries the village was the smuggling capital of Northumberland.

Now however, this peaceful village consists of a row of cottages, one pub and a few fishing cobles.

The name Boulmer, pronounced 'Boomer', is a derivation of Bulemer, from the old English bulan-mere (bulls mere).

Boulmer has changed little in over 100 years and is one of the few true fishing villages left on the Northumberland Coast.

The major change was the arrival of the Royal Air Force during the Second World War.

Set within a natural haven, in a gap through an almost complete band of rock, Boulmer has no harbour.

The traditional blue fishing cobles have to be hauled ashore or moored in the water.

The main catch is crabs, lobsters and sea salmon.