Near Newcastle Upon Tyne Is A Coastal Town With Sandy Beaches, Maritime History, And Local Eats

When the weather cooperates, the seaside towns dotting England's coastline are a delight to explore. But even gloomy skies can add a mysterious atmosphere to the waterfront scenery, making these maritime hamlets a must-visit in any kind of weather. All the way in Northumberland is a rather underrated seaside destination called Blyth, which once claimed bragging rights as one of England's most bustling ports. With sandy beaches overlooking the sprawling expanse of the North Sea and an array of tasty local eateries around town, Blyth offers a refreshing getaway from crowded cities.

Back in the 17th century, Blyth was a busy port town. Merchant ships docked in Blyth to pick up cargoes of coal, and the village's first lighthouse was eventually built in the early 18th century to guide vessels into the quay. By the early 1800s, shipyards in Blyth were building sailing vessels, including the two-masted brig that would carry Captain William Smith on his voyage to discover Antarctica. Though the shipyards are now quiet, visitors to Blyth can still stroll along the quayside, where a narrow peninsula shelters the River Blyth from the waves of the sea.

Aside from maritime history, Blyth offers miles of sandy shorelines. Beachgoers can splash amidst the waves and enjoy relaxing strolls, and a paved promenade stretches all the way down the coastline into the neighboring town. Anglers can head to Blyth West Pier to cast a line into the ocean's depths. When hunger strikes, Blyth offers diverse culinary flavors to choose from, whether you're craving Indian dishes, Mediterranean cuisine, or classic pub grub. Newcastle upon Tyne is only about 25 minutes away by train, and Londoners can catch a train at King's Cross with a change at Newcastle to reach Blyth in just over three hours.

History lovers keen to relive Blyth's seafaring heyday can hop aboard the town's very own replica tall ship. Docked in Blyth's quayside, the Williams II is a recreation of the original two-masted ship sailed by Captain William Smith on his Antarctica mission back in 1819. Through the Blyth Tall Ship website, visitors can book a thrilling cruise across the sea on the Williams II. "I did a 3 day sail with [Blyth Tall Ship] and it was worth every penny," a previous visitor wrote on Google. If being tossed around at sea makes you feel queasy, you can still book a tour to climb on deck and explore the Williams II while it's docked.

Beach lovers will find plenty of opportunities to relax in Blyth. Not far from the harbor is South Beach, the town's main sandy shoreline. Sun-seekers can stroll along the coast, or throw down a towel and gaze out at the crashing waves. Those who prefer to stay dry can hang out at the Blyth Bandstand, a domed pavilion surrounded by manicured lawns and benches overlooking the beachfront. "Great place for young kids as you have the grassed area for games and the choice of the beach as well," reads a Google review.

Also nearby is Blyth Beach, popular for its iconic row of multicolored beach shacks. There is ample space along the sandy shoreline to unwind and build sandcastles, and a large open field behind the beachfront offers additional space for picnicking. Visitors seeking more waterfront attractions can drive an hour south along the coast to Seaham, a charming town with beaches, local eateries, and scenic cliffs.

After frolicking around on the beach in Blyth, you will no doubt feel hungry. Conveniently located right behind Blyth Beach is Coastline, a fish and chip shack with rave reviews on Google. Back in 2022, The Guardian ranked Coastline among the best fish and chip shops in the United Kingdom. Aside from battered cod and haddock with a side of fries, the menu also includes options like garlic prawns, seafood baskets, pizza, and burgers. For dessert, try one of the many ice cream flavors, like bubblegum, fudge brownie, and salted caramel.

For a relaxed pub atmosphere, head to Masons Arms. Find a cozy booth inside, or sit at the wooden tables out on the patio if the weather is pleasant. There's also a pool table to start up a game in between bites. Dishes on the menu include hot dogs with a side of potato skins and chicken tikka flatbread with sweet potato fries. "The homemade pies are amazing," a customer wrote on Google. The pub also organizes regular live music nights, which adds even more merriment to the atmosphere.

Those craving Indian cuisine should stop by Shangri-La, also highly-rated on Google. Previous customers praise the restaurant's stylish decor, welcoming atmosphere, and generous food portions. Try the onion bhaji, highly recommended by past diners, or the tandoori lamb chops with a side of paneer sticks. Once you've crossed a visit to Blyth off your list, continue your adventures in Alnmouth, a quaint English village just over an hour away by train. Another destination worth exploring in the area is Redcar, a coastal town with beaches and local eateries.