Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay is a seaside town in the county of Tyne and Wear, located around 10 miles east of Newcastle; it now includes the former village of Monkseaton.  The decline of local coal mining and dependent industries prompted Whitley to develop as a seaside holiday resort and this was aided by the opening of the North Tyne Loop railway line in 1882 and, from 1980 onwards, the development of the present Metro system.

We walk along the promenade (aka The Links, a former 9-hole golf course) and enjoy a nice view of St Mary's Lighthouse in the distance; we take in the skateboard park, beach and War Memorial before heading back to the Spanish City; originally a permanent seaside fairground, this is now a fancy venue in a historic building with eateries and bar. 

For refreshment, we visit The Dog and Rabbit Micro Brewery, converted from a women's clothing shop, and then walk to Monkseaton to The Left Luggage Room, a specialist craft beer pub sited the former Parcel and Left Luggage Room at the station there.Read more