The bustling seaside resort is less than half an hour’s drive from the heart of the city and is home to a famous landmark, a luxury fish and chip restaurant and one of the best places to go for ice cream in the area
A bustling seaside resort, just a short drive from the heart of Newcastle, boasting a famous landmark, a luxury fish and chip restaurant, and one of the best spots for ice cream in the area, is gaining international recognition as it gears up for a busy Easter.
When it comes to North East beaches with breathtaking backdrops, Bamburgh certainly stands out, thanks to its historic castle nestled right next to it.
Further down the coast, you’ll find the beaches of Tynemouth, easily identifiable by the Priory, and Sandhaven beach in South Shields, which has even drawn comparisons to Ibiza, reports Chronicle Live.
However, none of these locations can boast what Whitley Bay has to offer.
With the revamped Spanish City dome, it’s arguably one of the most striking beach neighbours in the region, instantly catching your eye.
Known as ‘the most popular seaside resort’ within easy reach of Newcastle, Whitley Bay has travel experts at globally renowned publishers Conde Nast singing its praises in a guide to the best beaches to visit in the area this summer.
In their review of Whitley Bay, they note: “Over the past 10 years the restoration of Spanish City and the seafront around it, combined with the opening of dozens of independent shops, cafes and restaurants have revived Tyneside’s most popular seaside resort”
The write-up also highlights the much-loved ice cream spot Di Meo’s as a must-visit, thanks to its ‘ever-changing range of wild and wonderful flavours. ‘
And naturally, no seaside trip is complete without indulging in some fish and chips.
Visitors to Whitley Bay can enjoy this classic dish inside the Spanish City dome itself, which houses Trenchers, a highly acclaimed restaurant that secured third place in this year’s National Fish and Chip awards – often referred to as ‘the Oscars’ of the industry.
Whitley Bay also boasts the Playhouse theatre, attracting a number of celebrities.
Comedian Jason Manford is a big fan of the local Meet Me on The Corner cafe, which he visited during his trip to the coast.
The cafe has since relocated to larger premises at Whitley Bay golf club.
For fans of the ITV drama Vera, you can visit some of the filming locations used in the show, including Turknaz restaurant and the iconic St Mary’s Lighthouse, which served as the backdrop for a tense exchange between DCI Stanhope and her sidekick Joe Ashworth in the first episode of the final series.