Things To Do
in Whitley Bay
Whitley Bay sits on the North East coast of England, just north of Tynemouth, offering a long sandy beach and a lively seafront. The town blends family-friendly charm with historic landmarks and a recently revived Spanish City complex. The promenade is lined with cafes, fish and chip shops, and arcades, making it a perfect day trip from nearby Newcastle.
Easy rail and road links make it a great base for exploring the wider Tyne and Wear coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the golden sands of Whitley Bay Beach, where the sound of waves crashing against the shore sets a tranquil tone. As the sun rises, the beach comes alive with dog walkers and early morning joggers, perfect for soaking in the serene atmosphere. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline as you breathe in the salty sea air.
After a leisurely morning, head to the nearby Spanish City, an iconic amusement park and entertainment venue, where you can explore its rich history and architecture. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming eateries, sampling local seafood dishes while overlooking the bustling promenade. Spend the afternoon indulging in some nostalgia at the funfair, riding the carousel or trying your hand at arcade games.
As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a picturesque landscape perfect for a peaceful evening stroll. Seek out a cozy restaurant along the coast to savor a delicious dinner featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby pub, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps some live music.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Tynemouth Castle and Priory, perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, where you can delve into the rich history of the area. Wander through the ancient ruins and take in breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding area. The morning light offers perfect conditions for photography, so don't forget to capture the stunning scenery.
After exploring the castle, make your way to the Tynemouth Market, where you can browse through a variety of stalls selling local crafts, antiques, and delicious street food. Treat yourself to lunch from one of the food vendors, sampling local delicacies while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Spend your afternoon enjoying a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Tynemouth, stopping in quaint shops and cafes.
As evening falls, head to the Tynemouth Pier for a picturesque sunset, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Seek out a nearby seafood restaurant for dinner, indulging in freshly caught fish and chips while enjoying views of the harbor. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local pub, where you can enjoy a pint of local ale and chat with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and family-friendly beaches
- Excellent access to Newcastle for nightlife and culture
- Revived historic landmarks like the Spanish City
- Can be crowded in peak summer
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with big cities
- Weather can be unpredictable on coastal days
Places to Visit in Whitley Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastel-toned domed architecture on the seafront, ideal for wide shots at sunrise or in soft evening light.
Long sandy beach with dramatic horizons, perfect for long-exposure seascapes and sunset silhouettes.
Clifftop vantage with sweeping sea views across the North Sea; accessible for panoramic photography when conditions permit.
Food in Whitley Bay
Whitley Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential North East bread used for hearty fillings such as cheese, bacon, or egg; a staple in local cafes and pubs.
Must-Try!
Fresh crab meat tucked into crusty bread with light greens for a simple coastal bite.
A traditional North East potato, onion and cheese bake, sometimes served with local bacon.
Classic battered fish with chunky chips, best enjoyed from a fish shop along the seafront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekend market near the Priory with local produce, crafts, and street food stalls.
Seasonal food stalls along the Whitley Bay seafront offering quick bites like fish and chips, pies, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette applies: queue patiently and allow others to finish before entering crowded spaces.
Acknowledge staff with a friendly greeting and say please and thank you.
Respect signs about dogs, litter, and designated swimming areas; keep noise reasonable in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Whitley Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not usually included; a tip of 10-15% for good service is appreciated in restaurants.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing sea breezes; expect crowds on weekends and around the promenade; excellent for beach activities and sunset photography.
Milder days with variable weather and dramatic skies; great for coastal walks and less crowded attractions.
Often windy and wet with shorter daylight hours; coastal walks still possible with proper gear and shorter routes.
Cool to mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; ideal for outdoor exploration and calmer seaside experiences.
Whitley Bay at Night
Hiking in Whitley Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal stretch from Whitley Bay to Tynemouth with ocean views and photo opportunities.
Clifftop and shore views along a moderate coastal route near the lighthouse.
Coastal sections offering rugged scenery and sea views along the Northumberland coast.
Airports
How to reach Whitley Bay by plane.
Main international airport serving the region; about 15-25 miles from Whitley Bay with train or taxi connections.
Secondary option offering regional flights; about a 1.5-hour drive by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families visiting for safe beaches, arcades, and kid-friendly cafes.
Students from nearby universities and colleges visit for weekend trips and culture.
Coastal living and gentle walks attract retirees seeking a calmer pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Regionally popular; local fans support Newcastle United and other clubs.
Rugby union and league presence in the broader area with local clubs.
Coastal golf courses nearby provide scenic rounds with sea views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whitley Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie burgers, salads, pastas and cheese dishes; most places can adapt seafood-heavy dishes.