Tucked away in the northeastern part of the county lies a town renowned as a haven for seafood enthusiasts due to its lively and dynamic coastal dining scene.
Tynemouth, situated in the Tyne and Wear region, stands out for its abundance of high-quality, locally-sourced, and sustainable seafood offerings. Notably, Riley’s Fish Shack, the town’s premier dining establishment, is celebrated for its nationally acclaimed charcoal-grilled mackerel, lobster, and scallops procured directly from the nearby North Shields Fish Quay.
Beyond its culinary delights, Tynemouth boasts Blue Flag-certified beaches, a rich maritime heritage, a bustling market, and esteemed surf schools. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, this town, located just eight miles from Newcastle, features the historic Tynemouth Priory and Castle, now accessible to both visitors and residents.
Perched on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea, the medieval priory’s remnants, managed by English Heritage, offer captivating exhibitions detailing its past and commanding vistas of the North Sea and the River Tyne estuary.
In addition to its historical significance, Tynemouth is home to two renowned beaches, Longsands and King Edward’s Bay, celebrated for their golden sands, surf-worthy waves, pristine waters, and picturesque panoramas.
The town center boasts a vibrant high street adorned with independent shops and hosts Tynemouth Market, lauded as the North’s most dynamic marketplace. Housed within the restored grandeur of Tynemouth Station, this market entices visitors from far and wide with its array of offerings, including vintage attire, jewelry, antiques, street food, and more.
Visitors have showered the market with praise, with one visitor remarking, “Lovely little market. Plenty of art, photography, keepsakes, and great food options.” Another enthusiast wrote, “It’s an amazing place. Both sides of a Metro transformed into the largest market I’ve ever seen. Put it on your list of must-sees in the North.”