Near Newcastle Upon Tyne Is A Charming Coastal Town With Fresh Seafood, Quaint Shops, And An Unusual Lighthouse

At a time when the English coastline is becoming increasingly recognized for its postcard-worthy views and laid-back allure, Tyne and Wear (aka Tyneside) is a county that remains largely undiscovered by tourists despite its unrestricted water access and dozens of scenic beaches. And one charming coastal town, in particular, offers travelers a combination of unique waterfront attractions, fresh seafood, and mom-and-pop shops that's hard to find even in better-known hotspots. Whitley Bay, which balances small-town appeal with a lively atmosphere, is known for its golden sand and nostalgic feel, making it a top pick among families and surfers. What started as a mining hub and then became a Victorian seaside retreat is now a cosmopolitan-feeling destination with beautiful buildings and an array of attractions.

Whitley Bay Beach is a highlight, an award-winning gem complete with a promenade and abundant surfing or paddleboarding opportunities. Still, the town's top sight according to Tripadvisor remains St. Mary's Lighthouse, first built in 1898 and a unique landmark that turns into an island once the tide comes in. Whitney Bay's waterfront allure can be experienced through its culinary scene, as well, with numerous seafood eateries in town. Visitors can also browse for fun finds through a range of independent, locally owned shops.

Coming here shouldn't be too difficult. Whitley Bay is located near Newcastle upon Tyne – 10 miles northeast, to be exact. This is also where you'll find the nearest major airport, Newcastle International (NCL), which takes less than 30 minutes to reach by car and under an hour by public transport. Whitley Bay is a very walkable place, connected to Newcastle with bus and commuter rail services, so getting a rental car isn't a necessity.

The most straightforward way to take in the local coastline is to plan a sunbathing or swimming session at Whitley Bay Beach, a recipient of a Blue Flag award. This 2-mile stretch is known for its golden sand, so much so that sandcastle-building competitions are held here every year. Water lovers might be happy to learn that surfing, kayaking, and canoeing are very popular, while those looking forward to a more laid-back retreat can take advantage of the cozy nearby cafes and small shops. Visitors describe it on Google Maps as peaceful, clean, and spacious, and even compliment the picturesque sunrise views. It can't hurt, however, to double-check the best time to visit England for optimal weather before setting your dates in stone.

About half a mile past the beach's northern edge, you'll find St. Mary's Lighthouse, a 19th-century structure that now operates mainly as a museum. What makes it unique is that it's on a small tidal island, meaning that twice a day, at high tide, the lighthouse is completely cut off from the mainland. That's why it's important to check the local tide forecast before you go to make sure that you can actually walk the short concrete causeway (and get back again). 

Once here, climb the 137 stairs to the top to marvel at the gorgeous surrounding scenery. If you can't make it up there, take advantage of a video feed that brings those views to ground level. There's a gift shop on site, too. The waterfront adventures don't have to end here, especially when Alnwick, a quaint English village with ocean views, a beach, and tasty eats, is just over 30 miles away.

Whitley Bay offers travelers more than just swimming and sunbathing opportunities. Not only is it located in northeast England, a scenic corner of the country where Rick Steve says you'll see "some of England's best historical sights," but the town is also home to a highly reviewed selection of seafood restaurants. Fisherman's Bay is one of the most popular picks and a place that prides itself on only using sustainably sourced cod and British potatoes, which is why many patrons rave about the fresh food. They also offer gluten-free and vegan alternatives to the classic fish and chips. 

Another place you can enjoy the lovely waterfront scenery with your meal is 1910 Restaurant. It's located inside the Spanish City complex, which boasts over 100 years of history in Whitley Bay. The restaurant specializes in both classic and modern dishes, and you can even enjoy afternoon tea; just remember to book beforehand. The menu varies, but past selections have included dishes like salmon fish cake, sea bream, and fish soup. 

Whitley Bay's small-town charm also lies in its selection of quaint shops — places to explore beyond traditional malls like Park View Shopping Centre. Think Just Canny, a spot that sells exclusively handmade goods crafted in the U.K. by independent creatives. The selection includes jewelry, art, homeware, accessories, and more, with visitors recommending asking the friendly owner for insights and recommendations. Book lovers can't miss out on Keel Row Books, either. Specializing in rare and collectible titles, this is the place to scour for some truly unique finds, though it also sells new books alongside the antiques. It also has material on local history, plus fine bindings, photographs, and maps.