Things To Do
in Cullercoats

Cullercoats is a charming seaside town on the North Sea coast of Tyne and Wear, just north of Whitley Bay. Its working harbour and promenade give it a distinctly maritime atmosphere, with period villas lining the shore. The town has a history as a fishing village and boat-building hub, now thriving with cafes, galleries, and independent shops.

Visitors come for sea views, fresh seafood, and easy access to Newcastle upon Tyne.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Cullercoats Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Cullercoats Beach, soaking in the stunning coastal views and the sound of the waves. The serenity of the early hours provides perfect opportunities for photography and quiet reflection. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local café to enjoy as you stroll.

afternoon
:

After a relaxing morning, head to the nearby Tynemouth priory and castle for a historical tour. The impressive ruins and picturesque gardens offer a splendid backdrop for a leisurely picnic lunch. Unwind as you explore the rich history and breathtaking vistas along the clifftops.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a seaside dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches of the day. The ambiance will fill you with the essence of coastal living, making it a perfect way to end your day. Consider taking a moonlit walk along the beach to contemplate the beauty of the Northumbria coast.

day 2
Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Visit the Cullercoats Fish Quay, where you'll find the charm of this working harbor brought to life with the early morning hustle of fishermen. The quaint surroundings are lively and vibrant, ideal for observing local activities and perhaps picking up some fresh fish for dinner. Stop by a nearby bakery for some freshly baked goods to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the nearby Tynemouth Market, where you can explore a range of unique crafts, local produce, and antiques. The bustling atmosphere is filled with friendly chatter from vendors and visitors alike, creating a vivid tapestry of community spirit. Grab a bite at one of the market stalls that serve delicious street food.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a relaxing drink at a local pub, where you can mingle with the locals and experience the warm hospitality of the North East. Enjoy live music or quiz night if it's on the schedule, ensuring a lively atmosphere. As the night progresses, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront to bask in the cool sea breeze.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee$3-5
🚌Public transport ticket (single journey)$2-5
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-20
🛏Hotel night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastline and sea views
  • Friendly locals and compact town feel
  • Great access to Newcastle for city culture
  • Walkable town with scenic coastal paths
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Smaller range of amenities in off-season
  • Some attractions and services are seasonal

Places to Visit in Cullercoats

Visit one of these nice places.

Cullercoats Harbour at Dawn

Stock images of bobbing boats, pastel boathouses, and calm sea light.

Cullercoats Headland Viewpoint

Dramatic sea views from cliff-top vantage points, ideal for wide-angle and landscape shots.

Promenade and Victorian Villas

Long stretch of sea-facing promenade with white-painted villa facades and sea spray.

Cullercoats Clock Tower

Historic clock tower framed by sea and sky; great for sunset or moody weather photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cullercoats

Cullercoats offers seafood-forward, casual dining with local North East influences. Expect simple, flavourful dishes made with fresh fish from the North Sea and regional ingredients.

Cullercoats Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stottie bread with bacon

A regional baked staple often enjoyed as a hearty sandwich or toast with fillings.

Must-Try!

Pease pudding on toast

A traditional Tyne & Wear dish served on toast with pickles or chutney.

Fresh North Sea seafood platter

Seasonal fish, shellfish, and chips offered at quay-side eateries.

Crab sandwich

Freshly caught crab meat with mayo on crusty bread from quay-side sources.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cullercoats Fish Quay stalls

Seasonal seafood stalls along the harbour offering hot fish and chips and fresh bites.

Tynemouth Market (nearby)

Sunday market with street food, local produce, and crafts; great for tasting regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cullercoats experiences a temperate maritime climate with relatively mild winters and cool summers. Sea breezes are common, and rainfall occurs throughout the year. Summer highs typically reach the high teens to low 20s Celsius, while winter temperatures often hover around 4-8°C. Snow is uncommon but not impossible.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness and queues

British etiquette values politeness; queue patiently and say please and thank you.

Respect for fishermen and harbour

Give space around working boats and avoid disturbing nets or gear.

Local banter

Geordie-style friendly chat is common; keep conversations light in public spaces.

Tide awareness

Be mindful of tides when exploring rocky areas and coastal paths.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay mindful of waves and unstable rock ledges along the coast, especially after storms. Keep children within arm’s reach near the harbour and on the promenade. In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance; lifeguards are more active at major beaches nearby such as Tynemouth Longsands.

Tipping in Cullercoats

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not obligatory; 10-15% for table service is common when service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common; some small stalls may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder, breezy days with fresh greenery along the prom; showers are possible but brighten the light for photography.

Summer

Warmer and busier with outdoor seating and long daylight hours; expect crowds on weekends and along the coast.

Autumn

Crisp air and changing light; fewer tourists and excellent conditions for coastal photography.

Winter

Colder and windier with occasional storms; cosy pubs and winter coastal walks offer a different charm.

Nightlife Guide

Cullercoats at Night

The nightlife in Cullercoats is low-key compared to larger cities. You’ll find cosy seaside pubs with local ales and scenic views along the promenade, plus occasional live music. For a broader mix of bars and late-night venues, nearby Whitley Bay and Tynemouth offer more options with microbreweries and waterfront spots.

Hiking in Cullercoats

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cullercoats to Whitley Bay coastal walk

An easy-to-moderate coastal path with sea views, suitable for most weather conditions.

St Mary’s Island and Tynemouth headlands walk

Scenic coastal routes linking headlands and historic sites with sweeping sea views.

Northumberland Coast Path (nearby sections)

Several accessible sections offer longer hikes along the dramatic Northumberland coastline.

Airports

How to reach Cullercoats by plane.

Newcastle International Airport (NCL)

Main regional gateway with European and international flights; quick access by train or road to Cullercoats.

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Major international hub accessible by road or rail via the east coast; useful for longer-haul connections from the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cullercoats is highly walkable, with a compact town centre and a continuous coastal path. The promenade runs along the shore and connects to nearby Whitley Bay and Tynemouth, making easy day trips on foot or by bike. Some steeper sections are on cliff paths, so take care in wet or windy weather.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in the area or visit for weekend getaways, attracted by the beaches and safe promenades.

Retirees

Quieter, scenic town with a stable community and easy access to larger cities.

Students and commuters

Proximity to Newcastle means students and workers frequently travel to and from the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Nearby clubs and a strong football culture in the region, with Newcastle United being the marquee team.

Sailing and water sports

Coastal location supports sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding through local clubs.

Cricket

Seasonal local games and club-level cricket common in coastal towns.

Transportation

Traffic

The area relies on a mix of roads and public transport. The A19 and coastal A1056 connect to Newcastle and surrounding towns. Public transport includes Tyne and Wear Metro services, buses, and local ferries; traffic can be heavier in peak tourist season and during school holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cullercoats.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many venues offer veggie mains and salads; ask about stocks and dressings to ensure meat-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is provided via local GP practices with access to NHS services. The nearest large hospitals are in Newcastle (Royal Victoria Infirmary and Freeman Hospital) and other regional facilities accessible by public transport. For emergencies, dial 999; non-emergency GP appointments can be booked through the NHS local services.

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