Coast dates by Metro
Key facts
| Tynemouth Longsands | About 15 minutes' walk from Tynemouth or Cullercoats Metro |
|---|---|
| King Edward's Bay | About 10 minutes' walk from Tynemouth Metro |
| Cullercoats Bay | About 8 minutes' walk from Cullercoats Metro |
| Whitley Bay | About 12 minutes' walk from Whitley Bay Metro |
A trip to the coast makes a lovely second or third date, and on Tyneside you do not need a car. The Metro takes you to the beaches, and the walks from the stations are short. Wrap up in winter, as the wind off the sea is real.
A walk on Longsands
Longsands is the long beach at Tynemouth, and you can walk there from Tynemouth or Cullercoats Metro in about 15 minutes. Nexus says a Pop Pay As You Go card makes Metro travel cheaper and easier.
Source: Nexus: Seven sandy beaches you can reach by Metro, checked 8 November 2026
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
The priory ruins stand on the headland above the river mouth and the sea. English Heritage members get in free, and others can book ahead online to save 15%. Check opening days for your date, as they vary through the year.
Source: English Heritage: Tynemouth Priory and Castle prices and opening times, checked 8 November 2026
St Mary's Lighthouse
St Mary's at Whitley Bay is reached by a short causeway, so check the council's crossing times before you go. You can climb 137 steps to the top, and the nature reserve has rock pools, a beach and wetland.
Source: North Tyneside Council: About St Mary's, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Can we get to the coast without a car?
Yes. The Metro runs to Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay, and each beach is a short walk from the station.
Can you walk to St Mary's Lighthouse at any time?
No. You reach it by a causeway, so you need to check North Tyneside Council's crossing times before you set off.
Is Tynemouth Priory free?
It is free for English Heritage members. Everyone else pays for entry, and booking online in advance is cheaper than paying on the day.