Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay: A Classic Seaside Destination with Golden Beaches and Coastal Charm

One of the North East’s most beloved seaside towns, Whitley Bay is a vibrant coastal destination offering golden beaches, stunning sea views, and a thriving food and nightlife scene. With iconic landmarks like St. Mary’s Lighthouse, Spanish City, and a lively promenade, Whitley Bay is perfect for family getaways, romantic seaside breaks, and fun-filled adventures.

Whether you’re looking for surfing, seaside dining, or cultural attractions, Whitley Bay offers a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.

Why Visit Whitley Bay?

Whitley Bay is a bustling seaside town, offering:

Whitley Bay Beach – A beautiful golden sandy beach, ideal for families, surfers, and dog walkers.
St. Mary’s Lighthouse – A historic tidal island lighthouse, offering breathtaking coastal views.
Spanish City – A restored Edwardian pleasure dome, now home to restaurants, cafés, and live music events.
A Lively Promenade – Packed with trendy bars, seafood restaurants, and seaside amusements.

Step Back in Time: Historic Attractions in Whitley Bay

St. Mary’s Lighthouse & Island

A picturesque lighthouse, set on a tidal island just off Whitley Bay Beach.

Climb to the top for panoramic views over the North Sea.
Explore rock pools and marine wildlife, including seals and seabirds.
Walk across the causeway at low tide, but check tide times before visiting!

📍 Location: St. Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay
🎟️ Entry Fee: Small fee for lighthouse access

Spanish City

A beautifully restored Edwardian entertainment venue, now a dining and cultural hub.

Dine in stylish restaurants, including Trenchers, offering award-winning fish & chips.
Enjoy live music, art exhibitions, and seasonal events.
Admire the stunning domed ceiling, a historic landmark since 1910.

📍 Location: Whitley Bay Seafront
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (restaurants and events ticketed)

Whitley Bay Metro Station & Historic Streets

Explore charming Victorian architecture, including:

Traditional seaside townhouses, now home to independent shops and cafés.
Whitley Bay’s historic train station, with a beautiful restored canopy.
Quirky vintage shops and boutique stores, perfect for unique finds.

📍 Location: Whitley Bay Town Centre

Explore the Great Outdoors: Things to Do in Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay Beach

A long stretch of golden sand, perfect for:

Family-friendly beach days, with safe swimming areas.
Surfing, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing, with local surf schools available.
Dog-friendly walks, as parts of the beach welcome pets all year round.

📍 Location: Whitley Bay Seafront

Walk the Whitley Bay to Tynemouth Coastal Path

A stunning coastal walk, linking two fantastic seaside towns.

Breathtaking views of the North Sea and dramatic cliffs.
A stop at Cullercoats, a charming fishing village with a small sandy cove.
Ends at Tynemouth Priory & Castle, a historic fortress overlooking the River Tyne.

🚶 Distance: 2.5 miles (one way)

Blue Reef Aquarium (Tynemouth, Nearby)

A family-friendly attraction, featuring:

Marine life exhibits, including sharks, otters, and sea turtles.
Interactive rock pools, where kids can touch starfish and crabs.
Underwater viewing tunnels, offering a close-up look at ocean creatures.

📍 Location: Tynemouth Seafront
🎟️ Entry Fee: Ticketed entry

Watersports & Surfing at Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay is a top North East surf destination, offering:

Surf schools and equipment hire, for beginners and experienced surfers.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), great for exploring the coast.
Coasteering & kayaking, available through local adventure companies.

📍 Best Spot: Whitley Bay Beach & Cullercoats Bay

Where to Eat and Drink in Whitley Bay

Trenchers at Spanish City

A multi-award-winning seafood restaurant, serving classic fish & chips in a stylish setting.
🐟 Best For: A traditional seaside dining experience.

The Roxburgh

A highly-rated independent bistro, offering modern British cuisine with local ingredients.
🍽️ Best For: A fine dining experience by the coast.

Hinnies

A cosy, casual eatery, serving comfort food inspired by North East traditions.
🥂 Best For: A relaxed meal with stunning sea views.

The Split Chimp Micro Pub

A craft beer lovers’ paradise, featuring local ales, ciders, and a welcoming atmosphere.
🍻 Best For: A relaxed drink after a beach walk.

Independent Shops & Local Finds

For The Love of The North

A unique gift shop, showcasing:

Locally made artwork, prints, and homeware.
North East-themed gifts and souvenirs.
Handmade cards and stationery, supporting independent artists.

📍 Location: Whitley Bay Town Centre

Whitley Bay Market (Monthly Event)

A bustling outdoor market, featuring:

Locally made crafts, clothing, and homeware.
Street food stalls, offering delicious regional treats.
Live music and a lively community atmosphere.

📍 Location: Whitley Bay Seafront
🕒 Market Days: Check local listings

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

Whitley Bay is a perfect base for exploring Northumberland and Tyneside:

Tynemouth (2 miles) – Visit Tynemouth Priory, Longsands Beach, and its famous weekend market.
Newcastle upon Tyne (8 miles) – A vibrant city with history, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
Seaton Delaval Hall (4 miles) – A stunning National Trust mansion with landscaped gardens.
South Shields (10 miles) – Explore Sandhaven Beach, Marsden Rock, and Arbeia Roman Fort.

Plan Your Trip to Whitley Bay

Best Time to Visit

Whitley Bay is a year-round destination, offering:

Spring & Summer – Ideal for beach days, water sports, and coastal dining.
Autumn – A great time for scenic walks, quiet cafés, and dramatic sea views.
Winter – Enjoy stormy seascapes, cosy pubs, and festive seaside lights.

Where to Stay in Whitley Bay

From luxury seafront hotels to cosy B&Bs, Whitley Bay offers:

Beachfront Hotels – Stay close to Spanish City and Whitley Bay Beach.
Boutique B&Bs – Enjoy a charming, locally run guesthouse experience.
Self-Catering Apartments – Perfect for families and longer stays by the coast.

Book Your Stay in Whitley Bay

Whether you’re looking for a traditional seaside holiday, an active surfing break, or a cultural getaway, Whitley Bay is the perfect Northumberland destination.

📞 Need help booking your stay? Contact us:
📩 Email: [email protected]
📍 Phone: 0191 359 2406