The Tyne Coast (beautiful beaches surrounding Newcastle)

You may not equate Tyne and Wear with sandy beaches, but there are quite a few. The main one is Whitley Bay, which has a long beach with views to St Mary’s Lighthouse.
At the coast, keep away from nesting birds and never walk on sand dunes. Learn how to keep dogs safe by the seaside (check beach bans before travel).
- The beaches of Roker and Seaburn are split by a headland, each has its own charm. Roker Pier lighthouse offers great views, as does Marine Walk at sunset.
- Painter LS Lowry spent his holidays at Seaburn. He holds the record for rejecting honours (five times, including a knighthood). Devoted to his mum, he explained ‘There seemed little point, once Mother was dead’.
- Longsands has a long open curved beach with a wide sand run at low tide. On windy days, it can feel exposed, so bring an extra layer and a hat that stays put!
- Cullercoats Bay is a small curved bay with a built-up edge, with local shops and places to grab something warm to drink, after a short walk.
- King Edward’s Bay (a sheltered sandy cove) sits below Tynemouth Priory. Due to steep steps, it’s not accessible for limited mobility, and dog bans are place much of the year (and may not be safe at other times).
At high tide, this beach narrows fast, and the rocks take over. So be sure to check tide times before travel, to avoid getting stranded.
Geordie accents (voted the friendliest in England!)
Although a strong Geordie accent may be one of the most difficult to understand, a recent survey found it’s the one we like most, to put a smile on our faces!
Like Brummies, Geordies are known for being welcoming to strangers, and like to have a chat! So here’s a quick guide so you know what they are talking about, if you visit!
- ‘Pet’ or ‘hinny’ (terms of endearment like ‘dear’ or ‘love’)
- ‘Canny’ (nice and good)
- ‘Marra’ (a warm term for a friend)
- ‘Howay man!’ (hurry up!)
- And the one we all know:
- ‘Wey aye! (yes, of course!)
