The waterfront town of Tynemouth is full of great things to do on a day trip this summer. You’ll find breathtaking walks, stunning beaches and a host of fun-filled family activities. Here’s the ultimate family day-out guide to this fantastic coastal city in 2019.
Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth
The Blue Reef Aquarium is a great day out with fascinating exhibits and shows for all ages. You can get up close to a huge variety of marine life from all over the world. They come in all sizes, shapes and colours, from beautiful cownose rays to the common clownfish from Finding Nemo. You’ll also get to meet bigger furry creatures such as otters, seals, and even Blue Reef’s famous cheeky monkeys. You should plan your day around the schedule of events. This includes everything from a jaw-dropping acrobatic seal show to their reptile meet & greet. You might be lucky enough to say hello to the aquarium’s beloved green iguana.
Ready to plan your visit? Get your tickets here and save when you buy online!
Longsands Beach
Longsands is one of the North-East’s most stunning seaside destinations. As the name suggests, the beautiful sandy beaches stretch for over a mile, full of rocks, dunes and cliffs to explore. Go on a long relaxing walk or blow up the beach ball and get ready for some summer fun. There are lifeguards in the summer for extra safety and if you fancy riding the waves you can even take surfing lessons.
Tynemouth Market
If shopping is more your thing, this indoor market has everything you could possibly need. The aisles are packed with stalls selling a fantastic array of arts and crafts products, vintage clothes, one-off gifts and enough food and drink options to satisfy even the fussiest diner.
Pirate Escape
Head north to Whitley Bay for one of the UK’s best escape rooms. Pirate Escape puts you in the middle of a magical pirate-themed adventure, full of heart-racing challenges, skull and crossbones and booty-filled treasure chests.
The Spread Eagle
Looking for some hearty pub grub? Put the award-winning Spread Eagle at the top of your list. It’s been around for over 250 years and a firm favourite with both locals and tourists. The food is well-priced and filling, based around traditional fare, such as fish and chips or a classic British pie, from the ever-changing menu. It’s even dog-friendly, so man’s best friend can come along too.
Tynemouth Priory & Castle
Tynemouth Priory has 2000 years of history and beautiful views over the North Sea and the River Tyne. For the perfect family day out, have a picnic while you breathe in the sea air before visiting the peaceful 15th-century chapel. You can even marvel at the restored gun battery, which was designed to defend the Tyne in the First and Second World Wars.
Jam Jar Cinema
At the heart of Whitley Bay, you’ll find one of the UK’s most charming cinema. This intimate movie theatre has just 50 seats and a single screen showing the best new and classic films, taking in everything from Hollywood blockbusters to independent UK releases.
South & North Marine Park
These beautiful parks are two of the most delightful places to visit in the North East. South Marine Park is ideal for children, thanks to two soft play areas and a miniature steam train that circles the park, plus plenty of green space to enjoy a picnic or just watch the world go by. North Marine Park is a more peaceful place, full of great views and fascinating walking trails that lead upwards to a spot where you can gaze for miles along the coastline.
Sweet Reminisce
Get your tastebuds ready for the nostalgia trip of a lifetime, thanks to this wonderful retro sweet shop. This family-run candy store is based in a converted church, with shelves packed with jars full of old-school sweet treats you haven’t tried in years, if not decades. Craving pear drops, midget gems and strawberry bonbons? Look no further.
The Dog & Rabbit Micro Brew Pub
You’ll no doubt want to end your day out in Tynemouth with a well-earned pint. This friendly little pub has a great range of craft ales and beers that changes regularly. Finally, there’s a no mobile phone rule – don’t worry, it’s done with a smile – so your friends and family will have to put away those screens and live in the moment. Don’t forget to pick up one of their legendary pies for the journey home.
Whatever you choose to do on your trip to Tynemouth, we hope you have a great time!
You can learn more about what’s on offer this summer at Blue Reef Tynemouth here, from Disney On Ice to Fossil Hunters weekend, and more!