In Attractions, Inspire, Trails

Did you know it’s the Year of the Coast? Join in this celebration of the incredible English coastline. The North East Coast is breathtaking so make sure you don’t miss out!

Here are five spectacular places you need to visit on The Way of the Sea.

Druridge Bay

Enjoy amazing views as you walk along this beautiful stretch of golden sand. Druridge Bay is an ideal spot for you to have a picnic, or weave through the sand dunes to arrive at The Drift Café, which is full of moreish homemade bakes.

The area is bursting with wildlife so if you’re a nature-lover stop by the nature reserves. East Chevington is a fantastic site for birdwatching. Skylark, stonechat and grasshopper warbler breed on the site. There are also charming parts of wildflower meadow.

Warkworth Castle and Hermitage

A major highlight of The Way of the Sea is Warkworth Castle which stands magnificently on the hilltop overlooking the River Croquet.  In 1139 Henry, son of David I of Scotland, became the Earl of Northumberland, who is likely to have formed the motte and bailey and erected the first stone buildings. The castle was later given to the Percy family in the 14th century when it is thought the hermitage was created. Continue your adventure by boat to explore the hermitage nearby!

Look out for the new sculptures in the castle grounds, they are part of a series of interactive trails about the lives of people who resided in or near the castle in the early 15th century. 

Sharpness Point

There probably aren’t many viewpoints you’ve been to from where you can see a priory and castle, a stunning beach, a church and a striking lighthouse but at Sharpness Point you can. It is a headland between the beach Tynemouth Longsands and King Edward’s Bay. As you stand on the headland, look out to your left to Tynemouth Longsands, you may see surfers catching the waves.

Further along in the distance is St George’s Church which has an 180ft spire. On your journey of North Tyneside, come with a curious mind as there are a number of information panels detailing the intriguing history and culture of the region.

Spanish City, Whitley Bay

Another must-see place is Spanish City, Whitley Bay. Marvelled at by visitors for years, the building has a striking dome which is worth admiring from both the outside and inside. Spanish City was once the performance space for a North East Toreadors group, based off the original entertainment troupe in the Isle of Man. Previously, it was even a fairground, ballroom and bingo hall. It is now a leisure venue which hosts a variety of events and is home to a diverse range of wonderful restaurants.

Stop for a luxury afternoon tea underneath the iconic dome in the Gallery or try fish and chips in Trenchers, the winner of the Best Fish and Chip Restaurant in the UK as part of the 2020 National Fish and Chip Awards.

St Mary’s Lighthouse

Get the thrill of being on a miniature island by going to St Mary’s Island, home to St Mary’s Lighthouse. Climb the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse and take in the incredible surroundings. Don’t forget to see the rockpools in the nature reserve! Check opening times and crossing times before your visit.

To find other exciting places along The Way of the Sea check out the trail's dedicated page and follow Northern Saints Trails on Instagram. 

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