Whether or not you grew up by the seaside, the areas of Whitley Bay, Cullercoats, and Tynemouth are engraved into the minds and memories of many North East families – who would spend day trips and endless staycations experiencing the sights and sounds of coastal life.
Located approximately 10 miles from the centre of Newcastle, these coastal areas can be easily reached by car and also well connected by the Metro and bus routes.
Cullercoats and Tynemouth are located just south of Whitley Bay, with the three destinations coming together to form the perfect blend of experiences and attractions on the North East coastline.
Whether you’re looking for fun day out with friends, seeking somewhere to take your family for day trip, or you have just moved to Newcastle and would like to explore more of what the North East has to offer, a visit to the coast will never disappoint.
Without further ado, here are some of the top things to do in Whitley Bay and the neighbouring bays of Cullercoats and Tynemouth.
Things to do and see in Whitley Bay
Whitley Bay Playhouse
Plays and films aplenty, the Whitley Bay Playhouse boasts big screens and a 630-seater auditorium with a stage which frequently welcomes some of the big names in comedy, dance, and acting. Whether or not you are planning a trip to Whitley Bay, the playhouse often has last-minute tickets available, or you can book in advance and plan a special outing.
St Mary’s Lighthouse
If it’s coastal views you’re looking for, then St Mary’s is the place for you to visit (and you only have to climb 137 steps to get there… PHEW!) Surrounded by rock pools, this is the best place to spot a seal, with a magical walk out to the lighthouse surrounded on both sides by the sea.
Di Meo’s ice cream
You can’t visit the beach and not get an ice cream – and at Di Meo’s, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Homemade, thick, creamy, and inspired by authentic Italian gelato. It’s also well known for its delicious pizza, in case you are looking for something more substantial to eat.
Whitley Bay Ice Rink
This ice rink opened in 1955 and has housed many huge performances from bands like Oasis, Take That, and more. With high energy music and a newly renovated interior, this is a great place for a date or for some downtime away from work and studies with your friends.
Elder and Wolf
Elder and Wolf holds an award for best newcomer restaurant in the UK, and for good reason. With kebabs which are worth eating even when you’re not drunk, proper wood-fired pizza, and an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere, this is a go-to for locals and tourists alike.
The Links Art Gallery
It doesn’t really matter whether art is your thing or not – The Links is still an impressive place to while away a few hours, particularly if the sunshine hasn’t come out to play for your day at Whitley Bay. With exhibitions and workshops just minutes from the seafront, this is a fun destination to tick that Northeast culture box during your time in Newcastle.
Things to do and see in Tynemouth
Razzberry Bazaar
An eccentric shop filled with all manner of furniture, clothing, jewellery, and more, every corner of this boutique store offers something new and completely unexpected.
Tynemouth Priory
An English Heritage site which has been around since the 13th or 14th century, this castle overlooks the Tynemouth Pier and invites you to immerse yourself in a little local history.
Riley’s Fish Shack
Open every day with a fresh and seasonal menu, Riley’s Fish Shack is the #1 reason to wake up early and get to Tynemouth in time for the breakfast service. As well as the food (which has been given the thumbs up from all manner of professional chefs during its time) this very popular eatery also serves great coffee and cocktails.
Tynemouth Aquarium
Who doesn’t love an aquarium? And Tynemouth takes its own aquarium one step further with a species of endangered monkeys also given a home, sharing the building with an outdoor seal centre and space for educational and feeding sessions for visitors to enjoy.
Gareth James Chocolatier
What better gift to take back to your housemates than a box of fresh Gareth James chocolates? With artisan chocolates in the store and a café filled with sweet goodies next door, this is the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up.
Lost World Adventure Golf
Perfect for all the family, when the sun comes out the tourists and locals flock to Lost World Adventure Golf – built on a dinosaur storyline concept, with tons of interactive areas and impressive staging pieces surrounding the 9 or 18-hole course.
Tynemouth Surf Café
It’s not just for surfers! If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and great food and drink, look no further than the Tynemouth Surf Café. The café has a stage and mic which is set up for buskers to perform – while on set nights they host gigs within the vibrant setting just minutes from the coastline.
Things to do in Cullercoats
Brunch at The Boatyard
An independent eatery with great coffee and even better food, The Boatyard caters to all dietary preferences and requirements with its fresh, local, delicious menu.
Explore by bike and kayak
Hire a bike or get out and about on the water in a rented kayak. Cullercoats Bikes and Kayaks also provide lessons for different abilities, so that every visitor has the confidence and ability to get out on the water and on dry land.
