Buying a holiday home at Elm Bank provides you with a great base from which to enjoy spending time in the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, a mere three miles from the Scottish border. There are also great times to be had if you go a little further afield and in a different direction.
A pleasant hour and a half’s drive south down the coast is the Tynemouth region of Newcastle. This stretch of shoreline (Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay) features a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks and vibrant coastal culture.
The area boasts a network of scenic trails with stunning views of the sea and the rugged coastline. The iconic C2C cycle route passes through Whitley Bay, providing a challenging yet rewarding ride for cycling enthusiasts, so you may see some about. For walkers, the route from Tynemouth to Whitley Bay offers picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore beaches and local attractions along the way.
In this edition of our blog, we’ll explore the top activities and attractions in Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay so you can plan a truly memorable coastal day out.
1. Tynemouth
Tynemouth is both a scenic and historic delight. Nestled on the edge of the city of Newcastle, there is plenty to see and do in the area for visitors.
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
One of the most iconic landmarks in Tynemouth is the Priory and Castle. Perched on a rocky headland, this historic site offers stunning views over the North Sea and the River Tyne. It dates back to the 7th century and has a rich history that includes, after the monastery was suppressed in the reign of Henry VIII (1509–47), being used as a coastal fortress until 1956 due to its strategic position. The site was eventually purged of many World War II military structures in order to display the priory and castle remains, though the Warrant Officer’s House and gun emplacements along the cliff edge remain as evidence of the site’s 20th-century role. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy the panoramic vistas and delve into the Priory and Castle’s fascinating past. During the summer months there are also often events held here – music concerts and so on.
Longsands Beach and King Edward’s Bay
King Edward’s Bay is a picturesque beach located in a bay just below the Priory and Castle. This sheltered bay is perfect for a quiet day by the sea, with golden sands and clear waters – and fantastic views. It’s a very popular spot for swimming and paddling, and there are plenty of amenities nearby including Riley’s Fish Shack, a beach café with outdoor seating including shelters and heating.
Another must-visit for beach lovers is the adjacent Longsands Beach. This much more expansive stretch of sand is not quite as secluded, and is perfect for a variety of beach activities, including sunbathing, swimming and surfing. It’s well known for clean waters and excellent surf conditions, so it regularly attracts surfers from all over the country. If a more relaxed day is more your thing, then it’s also ideal for a leisurely walk or a family picnic. There are also great places to eat including the very popular Crusoe’s.
Tynemouth Aquarium
If you have the grandkids with you, take them to Tynemouth Aquarium for a fun and educational experience. This is a fantastic destination featuring a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, an octopus, seals and colourful tropical fish. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the underwater tunnel which provides a close-up view of fascinating marine life swimming above and around you. There are interactive exhibits and daily talks to make it a truly engaging visit for children and adults alike.
Tynemouth Market
Located in the beautiful historic Tynemouth Metro Station each weekend, Tynemouth Market is a bustling shopping experience that offers over 150 stalls selling everything from antiques and collectible vintage items to local arts, crafts and fresh food. The vibrant atmosphere in the market is really pleasant and the variety of goods on offer make it a fantastic way to dawdle about on a Saturday or Sunday morning, whiling away some relaxing time before heading to the beach or off for something to eat.
2. Cullercoats
Just up the road from Tynemouth (and close enough to walk) is Cullercoats.
Cullercoats Bay
A charming and tranquil spot for a stroll is Cullercoats Bay, ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful seaside moment. The promenade offers stunning views, and the bay is protected by two piers, creating calm waters that are great for swimming and paddleboarding. The beach is sandy so perfect for building sandcastles and playing beach games. This is a really lovely spot with much less hustle and bustle than either Tynemouth or Whitley Bay.
Dove Marine Laboratory
The Dove Marine Laboratory in Cullercoats is part of the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences at Newcastle University and offers a fascinating glimpse into marine research and conservation. First established in 1887, it does primarily function as a working research facility but occasionally opens its doors to the public during the summer months for special events and open days. If you can make it to one of those it is a great way to spend some time and learn about the important work being done to protect marine life and the local marine environment in the region.
Artists’ quarter
Cullercoats has a rich artistic heritage, and the Artists’ Quarter is testament to this. The area is home to several galleries and studios where visitors can admire and purchase works by local artists. The vibrant and friendly scene mixes traditional and contemporary styles, so reflects the diverse talents in the region. Exploring the Artists’ Quarter in Cullercoats and going on the artists trail is a wonderful way to connect with local culture – and maybe even take a unique piece of art back to Elm Bank!
3. Whitley Bay
This vibrant seaside town is one of the region’s top draws, featuring coastal paths and cycle routes plus a fantastic lighthouse.
Whitley Bay beach
This is one of the most popular beaches in the region, well known for long stretches of golden sand and a lively promenade lined with cafes, ice cream parlours and amusement arcades. There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
St. Mary’s lighthouse
St. Mary’s lighthouse is a historic landmark located on a small island just off the coast of Whitley Bay. It is accessible via a causeway at low tide and offers panoramic views of the coastline and the North Sea. Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower for a bird’s-eye view and explore the fascinating visitor centre, which provides information about the lighthouse’s history as well as the local wildlife. The surrounding nature reserve is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching, with species such as kittiwakes, fulmars and eider ducks commonly seen.
Spanish City
The Spanish City is an iconic building in Whitley Bay, originally opened in 1910 as a concert hall and entertainment complex. It has now been restored to its former glory and houses a range of eateries including fish and chips, fine dining and a tearoom. nThe building’s stunning architecture and the variety of dining options make it a must-visit destination for food lovers and those interested in local history and architecture. There are also a range of entertainment events running throughout the year.
Whitley Bay Playhouse
This modern theatre hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, rock concerts and comedy shows. The diverse programme at Whitley Bay Playhouse ensures there’s always something for everyone, and its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors. Ging to a show or concert here is a wonderful way to round off your day spent exploring this whole fantastic stretch of coast.
Leaving Elm Bank behind for a day (or maybe even two – there are plenty of places to stay overnight) and heading to Tynemouth offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and seaside culture. The stunning natural beauty and vibrant coast in this region make it a truly memorable destination for Elm Bankers looking to travel a little further afield.