A steep headland, sea views and the mouth of the River Tyne define the setting of Tynemouth Priory and Castle. From here, the sea stretches into view in every direction. Across North Tyneside, you can also discover a coastline whose history is reflected in monastic ruins, rescue stations and old harbour facilities.
Beaches, Coves and Paths by the Water
Tynemouth Longsands is an approximately one-mile-long Blue Flag beach that is used year-round. Surf lessons and board hire are available, and national surfing championships have also been held here. Whitley Bay Beach is also a Blue Flag beach, with golden sand. It stretches from Whitley Bay North towards St Mary’s Lighthouse. The two beaches represent different stretches of coastline, without requiring you to limit yourself to just one kind of beach visit.
Cullercoats Bay offers a contrast: the sandy bay is enclosed by small piers. Its southern section is a launch point for leisure boats. Information boards along the promenade explain the area’s art history. Tynemouth Pier also combines coastal views with built heritage: the Victorian structure is Grade II listed and extends 900 metres out to sea. A walk along the pier to the lighthouse offers views of the river mouth and Tynemouth Priory and Castle.
Access to St Mary’s Lighthouse depends on the tides. If you can visit the lighthouse, climb its 137 steps to the roof for views across the coast. The structure, completed in 1898, is now operated as a visitor centre. The associated nature reserve includes rock pools, coastal grassland on the cliffs, a beach and wetlands. Check the tides before your visit, as they determine access.
Maritime History and Life on the Tyne
On the headland at Tynemouth stands the medieval priory church of Tynemouth Priory; the complex also includes the 15th-century Percy Chantry. Access is through a 14th-century monastic gatehouse. Visitors can also explore underground gun batteries associated with the two world wars. Medieval architectural history and much more recent coastal defences therefore meet in one place.
Cullercoats Watch House was built in 1879 as a lookout for the Cullercoats Volunteer Life Brigade and is closely associated with Winslow Homer. It is a Grade II listed building, but is currently closed for ongoing interior renovations. Check the latest status before planning a visit. The history of coastal rescue goes back further: Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade was founded in 1864 as the world’s first volunteer land-based coastal rescue service. Its museum displays rescue equipment, early photographs, documents, paintings and other items relating to the organisation’s origins and work.
North Shields Fish Quay dates back to the 13th century. Information boards along the quay tell the story of notable buildings and the harbour’s development. A promenade running east towards the mouth of the River Tyne offers views of the river mouth, piers and Collingwood Monument. Those who want to link these themes on a circular route can also follow the North Shields Town Trail, which brings together the town’s past, urban nature and Fish Quay. At The Old Lowlight, exhibitions and explanatory displays explore the history of the quay; events, talks, courses and workshops are also held there. The current programme may vary.
Roman Traces, Railways and Green Routes
At Segedunum, you can explore the preserved foundations of the fort, faithful reconstructions of a bathhouse and a section of Hadrian’s Wall, as well as an interactive museum. The site also includes a 35-metre-high viewing tower. The fort was built to protect the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall and housed 600 Roman soldiers. Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The different features make clear that a Roman fort was not just a wall: it also encompassed a bathhouse, everyday life and a military function.
Railway history has also left visible traces in North Tyneside. Tynemouth Station is a Grade II* listed railway station dating from around 1882. Ornate ironwork defines its platform canopies and footbridge, which extend for approximately 200 yards. The station hosts weekend markets and performing arts events. At Stephenson Railway Museum, you can see George Stephenson’s locomotive “Billy”; the museum also explores the railway work of George and Robert Stephenson in North Tyneside.
For a change of pace from the coast and heritage, visit Rising Sun Country Park. The 400-acre park includes a lake designated as a Local Nature Reserve, as well as wetlands, woodland and grassland. A bird hide overlooks Swallow Pond. An extensive network of walking and riding trails is for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Admission is free; check the latest visitor information before travelling. The Grade II listed Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnels allow you to cross beneath the River Tyne on foot or by bicycle. They form part of National Cycle Network Routes 72 and 14.
Local Food and Event Dates
North Shields Fish Quay is home to traditional fishing businesses and a range of places to eat, including fish restaurants and brasseries. Spanish City offers visitors, among other things, fish and chips, fine dining, a tea room and afternoon tea; current offerings may change. Tynemouth hosts the Mouth of the Tyne Festival and Tynemouth Food Festival every year. Dates vary, so it is worth checking the event dates before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Whitley Bay, Tynemouth, Hartlepool, Gateshead, Redcar And Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Stockton-On-Tees.
For the wider travel overview: North East England.
