Whitley Bay - A Visitors Guide

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Once a rival to mighty Blackpool, the ever-popular seaside resort and residential town of Whitley Bay is an extension of the adjacent old fishing village of Cullercoats.

With a history dating back to the 12th century, Whitley Bay became popular in Victorian times, with its roots firmly established as a holiday resort.

Over 200 years ago Cullercoats had become a small bathing town, which gradually expanded north forming the larger town of Whitley Bay.

With it's close proximity to the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and other nearby industrial towns, Whitley Bay was ideal, attracting holidaymakers and day-trippers escaping from the daily grind and toil of Victorian industrial Britain.

Having bracing sea air, magnificent golden sands, Spanish City amusement park, arcades, cafés and shops, not forgetting an extensive selection of economic accommodation, Whitley Bay remained popular with families for decades.

With the arrival of budget foreign holiday packages becoming available in the 1960's, visitors left our Victorian resorts behind, preferring more guaranteed climates and exotic foreign experiences.

However today Whitley Bay still remains popular with both holidaymakers and day-trippers, it is also famed for its nightlife and hen and stag nights.

Built in 1910, Spanish City funfair soon became one of Tyneside's most famous landmarks.

After years of neglect the impressive dome is now getting a much-needed facelift.

Under new plans the building will be transformed into a centre for leisure and tourism.

Whitley Bay Library could be re-housed in the dome while a family swimming pool will also be included on the site.

Photo © Andrew Curtis - CCL

Famous for its miles of clean golden sands, the sea is safe for bathing and there are plenty of the usual seaside amusements to keep the visitors entertained.

The resort has all you'll need for a relaxing weekend break and, if you have the urge, party the night away.

A unique atmosphere at weekends and Bank Holidays when the young and young at heart come to sample the nightlife from all over the UK and certainly don't leave disappointed.

There is something for everyone at the Whitley Bay Playhouse.

The Playhouse was reopened in September 2009 after an extensive renovation programme.

Boasting a 630 seat auditorium, a 10 seat corporate suite, bars, lounge area and spectacular sea views.

With various productions on offer, whether it is comedy, films, music, drama, ballet, jazz or dance, the theatre has a wide range of entertainment to suit all the family.

This venue is also home to The Whitley Bay Theatre Company, an old and established amateur performing arts group.

The group perform throughout the year and have a large following, both local and further afield.

Photo © R J McNaughton - CCL

Professional Artist and experienced Art Tutor Carol White is running a series of watercolour painting classes at the Links Gallery in Whitley Bay.

A free taster session is available on 9th September 2010, with classes commencing on 23rd September and running for five weeks.

All abilities are welcome, from complete beginners to seasoned artists alike.

Spanning two decades, the twentieth Whitley Bay International Jazz Festival, held between Friday 9th to Sunday 11th July 2010 came to a close.

This ever-popular event featured around 150 quality artists from all over the world.

Jazz enthusiasts enjoyed the bands, music and atmosphere, with everyone had a great time.

This jazz venue will be much missed on the calendar of events, it will however evoke fond memories.

North Tyneside International Youth Football Tournament takes place Thursday July 29 to Saturday 31st July 2010.

The North East of England is passionate about football and perhaps you can come along and see the stars of the future.

St Mary's Island, Lighthouse and Visitor Centre is close to the town.

Cross the short tidal causeway, climb the 137 steps inside the tower and experience spectacular coastal views.

Live video facilities allow visitors to experience these panoramic views, but at the comfort of ground level.

Also available are various exhibitions and a gift shop.

Outside is a small nature reserve with fascinating rock pools, flights of birds, a beach and cliff top walks.

During school holidays, the staff run rock pool rambles for children and families.

Suitable for children of five years and upward, these fascinating nature experiences last for about one hour.

A small charge of £1.50 per person is payable.

In December, prior to Christmas, the annual Whitley Bay St Nicholas Festival takes place.

This unique event, held in the town centre, features a Christmas market with French and Northumbrian food and craft sellers, street entertainment and childrens rides.

Whitley Bay has a wide variety of holiday accommodation available, including...

Hotels, Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfast, Self Catering and a Holiday Park.

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