Whitley Bay

A popular seaside resort featuring the iconic Spanish City amusement arcade, expansive sandy beaches, and the distinctive Whitley Bay Lighthouse. It offers a classic English seaside experience with plenty of family attractions and stunning coastal views.

Things to do

• Spanish City Amusement Arcade — A historic seaside arcade featuring classic fairground rides, vintage slot machines, and dodgems that has entertained visitors since 1910.
• Whitley Bay Beach — A wide expanse of golden sand ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with designated family areas and lifeguard patrols in summer.
• Whitley Bay Lighthouse — The distinctive white and red striped lighthouse standing on the rocky headland offers iconic photo opportunities and views across the North Sea.
• The Promenade Walks — A scenic coastal path stretching along the beach with sheltered seating areas, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying views of the Northumberland coastline.
• Cullercoats Bay — An adjacent sheltered cove popular with rock poolers and swimmers, featuring charming Victorian terraces and a working fishing village atmosphere.
• Tynemouth Priory and Castle — Just south at Tynemouth, these impressive ruins sit dramatically on a headland and offer insights into the region's medieval history and heritage.

Food to try

• Fish and Chips from a Beachfront Chippy — Fresh locally-caught fish battered and deep-fried, served with thick-cut chips and traditional mushy peas, best enjoyed with vinegar while walking along the beach.
• Kipper from Local Fish Merchants — Smoked herring kippers are a Northumbrian specialty, often served for breakfast or as a supper dish with butter and lemon at traditional seaside boarding houses.
• Afternoon Tea at a Seafront Café — Traditional cream tea with locally-baked scones, jam, and clotted cream served with a pot of proper English tea overlooking the bay.
• Crab and Lobster from Fishmongers — Fresh shellfish caught by local boats and sold at beachfront seafood stalls, often boiled and served simply with crusty bread and mayonnaise.
• Newcastle Brown Ale — The iconic local beer brewed in nearby Newcastle, traditionally enjoyed in seaside pubs with views over the bay.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Tides and Weather — The North Sea can be unpredictable; always check tide times and weather forecasts before swimming or exploring the rocks, and heed any lifeguard warnings.
• Traditional Seaside Etiquette — Whitley Bay maintains a classic English resort atmosphere where dressing modestly for the promenade and respecting quiet hours in residential areas is appreciated.
• Visit During Summer Season — The resort is most vibrant from May to September when attractions are fully open, beaches are supervised, and the promenade hosts regular entertainment and events.
• Support Local Fishing Heritage — The area maintains a working fishing community; purchasing directly from local fishmongers and boats supports the traditions that define the Northumberland coast.