4 magical seaside towns in the North East

Simon Edward • 15 April 2024

Fancy some seaside fun? Explore 4 magical seaside towns in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear.


Fancy some seaside fun? Explore 4 magical seaside towns in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear.

"The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul."


Robert Wyland


When the longer, brighter days of springtime start to tug us out of our winter sloth, there's no better way to wake up our senses than spending a day at the seaside.


Are you looking for an unspoilt little haven, a family day of seaside nostalgia or a fun day of entertainment turning into vibrant nightlife? We can help you with that!


At MVH, we're fortunate to be based in Swalwell, Gateshead – just 30 minutes' drive from one of the most unspoilt stretches of coastline in the UK.


Let's explore some of the most magical and marvellous seaside towns here in the North East.


1. Seaton Sluice


At the border of Northumberland and Tyne and Wear, you'll find
Seaton Sluice and its lovely, sandy beach.


Picture of Seaton Sluice.

The village takes its unusual name from an innovative bit of 16th-century engineering, commissioned by the eccentric genius Sir Ralph Delaval.


The narrow harbour was constantly getting blocked by the silt and sand brought in with the tide, so Delaval had sluice gates built at the mouth of the river. Towards the end of high tide, they were closed. Then, when the sea had retreated, the gates were opened again – and the silt and sand flushed back out of the harbour. It was a game-changer.


Known from then on as Seaton Sluice, this little harbour became the centre of a flourishing coal and glass trade. Despite its size, Seaton Sluice saw more commercial activity than any other town on the northeastern coast.


Today, the village's spacious, dog-friendly beach is a beautiful long stretch of golden sand, gifting fabulous views and even the occasional dolphin sighting. When the busier Northumberland beaches become packed, this little gem makes for a scenic escape. (And the parking is
free!)


You can take the well-maintained path along the top into the village or branch off down to the welcoming soft sand and the soul-restoring sea.


If you walk southward along the shoreline, you'll find the quaint little tidal harbour, the river outlet of
Seaton Burn and the all-important sluice gate.


The Kings Arms
and The Harbour View are both well-recommended for food and refreshment. Or, if you fancy exploring a bit more, take the beautiful woodland walk through Holywell Dene


Seaton Delaval Hall
, a National Trust property, is five minutes' drive away and is well worth a visit. You'll learn about this area's fascinating industrial past through the eyes of the Delavals – and what happened when they ignored a family curse! The Delaval's love of flamboyance, theatre and trickery will keep kids entertained, as well as adults.


A few minutes down the road, you'll find
St Mary's Island, which has its own car park. Time it with low tide and walk across the short causeway to enjoy a spot of rock pooling or watch wading birds and basking seals. Or why not conquer the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse? You'll be rewarded with phenomenal views.


2. Whitley Bay


For a very different vibe, drive a few minutes more to
Whitley Bay.


Picture of Whitley Bay.

Here, you'll find an award-winning length of golden sand with all the traditional entertainment of a magical seaside town. That includes an extensive promenade, arcades, mini golf, an ice rink, an outdoor play and water park and a playhouse that puts on a variety of shows.


The iconic
Spanish City, meanwhile, offer a dining experience for every mood. You have to try Trenchers' award-winning fish and chips. Or how about a leisurely Afternoon Tea on the gallery? Or fine dining at 1910 Steak & Seafood? Or a light snack with live music in The Champagne Bar?


Ooh… options.


Take another five-minute drive and you'll reach the aptly named
Long Sands Beach, which stretches ahead of you for almost two miles.


With waves ranging from two feet to more than 10 feet, this is the ideal place to learn to surf. There are many schools here, some of which are run by experts who compete in the English National Surfing Championships. 


3. Tynemouth


If water sports aren't your thing, carry on a few minutes more to the vibrant urban village of
Tynemouth – named for its position at the mouth of the River Tyne.


Picture of Tynemouth.

The town was once dominated by the powerful Tynemouth Priory – now an atmospheric ruin that's perfect for family picnics.


The kids will also enjoy walking the length of
Tynemouth Pier to see if they can spot any dolphins. A visit to Tynemouth Aquarium would end the day nicely.


Or why not come down on a weekend and experience the famous
Tynemouth Markets? Here, you can find a bargain, sample delicious street food and enjoy the locally roasted coffee.


If you like individual style and a little bit of retro, then pop into the
Green Ginger Arcade for independent boutiques and an authentic 1950s diner.


Anyone wanting to extend their visit into the evening will discover a vibrant nightlife scene. The town has a great variety of bars, including a newly opened Irish bar –
Grace Kelly's –  that's already getting great reviews.


4. South Shields


Instead of driving north from us, you might choose to go south, crossing the Tyne and heading for
South Shields.


Picture of South Shields.

This bustling little coastal town has three wonderful beaches – and much more besides.


Top of the list is the
Arbeia South Shields Roman Fort, which at one point accommodated 600 Roman troops who guarded the main sea route to Hadrian's Wall.


The site has dramatic tales to tell and showcases some very significant finds. The full-scale reconstructed commanding officers' quarters are worth the visit alone.


With free entry, it's a great opportunity for families to learn about the Roman world together. 


If you'd like to explore more of this area's fascinating past, head to
South Shields Museum. It offers free entry and is highly recommended – as are Souter Lighthouse and the Ocean Beach Pleasure Park.


We hope you've found some inspiration for your next seaside trip. Don't forget how easy it is to
hire a minibus or SUV from us to comfortably accommodate a large family group.

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