Tynemouth offers several distinct highlights for a visit: coastal scenery, historic buildings and activities on the water. To decide whether the town is right for your trip, consider what you are most keen to experience. At the Priory, the view stretches out over the sea; at Longsands, the focus is on the beach and surfing, while buildings and markets offer other points of interest.
Priory, Headland and Sea
The entrance to Tynemouth Priory is through a 14th-century monastic gatehouse. Tynemouth Priory and Castle stands like a natural fortress on a steeply sloping headland and offers panoramic views of the sea. Here, a striking historic building meets a dramatic coastal landscape.
Tynemouth Pier also draws the eye out to sea: it extends 900 metres offshore. The walk to the lighthouse offers views of the river mouth and Tynemouth Priory and Castle. Check the pier’s opening times before your visit if you plan to take this walk.
Longsands and King Edward’s Bay
Tynemouth Longsands is a mile-long beach with golden sand, used throughout the year. The beach has earned a national reputation as a surfing destination and has hosted national championships. Surf lessons and surfboard hire are available at Longsands; check availability before your trip.
King Edward’s Bay offers a different scale: the small sandy cove is enclosed by cliffs and grassy banks. Longsands is known for its long beach, while King Edward’s Bay is a smaller cove clearly defined by its surroundings. If you are considering Tynemouth for its coastline, you can choose between two distinct types of landscape.
Buildings, Markets and Theatre
The Collingwood Monument was erected in 1845 and is a Grade II* listed building. Tynemouth Station is also Grade II* listed; its comprehensive restoration was completed in 2012. The dates refer to different things: 1845 is the year the monument was erected, while 2012 marks the end of the station’s restoration.
Every weekend, Tynemouth Station hosts markets featuring books, antiques, collectibles and militaria. As market dates can change, check the latest dates if you want to plan a visit around them. Tynemouth Priory Theatre stages popular and well-known productions from the West End and cinema, as well as locally written and produced performances. The programme may change; check what is currently showing in advance if the theatre is part of your plans.
More Activities on the Water
Tynemouth Aquarium showcases native wildlife as well as animals from the waters of the Amazon and tropical seas. The aquarium also features the River Giants attraction. Its range therefore extends from native species to animals from distant waters.
At Tynemouth Boating Lake, you can take a pedal boat ride and walk around the Victorian lake. Check the availability of boat rides before your trip if you plan to take part in this activity. Along with the pier and beaches, the lake offers another distinct reason to consider Tynemouth’s waterside attractions.
Discover more destinations: Whitley Bay
Return to the main travel overview: North Tyneside.
