A mini guide to
A priory on the headland, beaches, and the fish quay at North Shields
1 / 6Welcome to the area
Tynemouth sits where the Tyne meets the North Sea, at the end of the Metro line from Newcastle. The ruins of the priory and castle stand on the headland, Front Street has cafés and pubs, and Longsands beach stretches north towards Cullercoats.
Upriver, North Shields Fish Quay is still a working fishing port, with Clifford's Fort and the old lighthouses nearby. The Shields Ferry crosses from North Shields to South Shields, and the Collingwood Monument looks out over the river mouth.
Highlights
If you only have a few hours, these are good places to begin.
Ruined Benedictine priory and castle on the headland at the mouth of the Tyne, entered through a 14th-century gatehouse; English Heritage.
Directions Website Report a problem with Tynemouth Priory and Castle
Monument to Admiral Lord Collingwood, Nelson's second-in-command at Trafalgar, with a base by John Dobson.
Long sandy beach between Tynemouth and Cullercoats, used by surfers and walkers.
Small sandy bay below the priory headland, reached by steps from Front Street.
Breakwater pier running out from below the priory to protect the river mouth.
Museum of the Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade in its watch house above the Black Middens.
Find your way
The map shows Tynemouth and the streets around it. The Getting there page lists nearby stops and stations.
Insider tips
On Nov 2, 2026 English Heritage listed weekend-only opening for Tynemouth Priory and Castle. Check its website before you go.
The North Pier runs out from below the priory. Stay off it in rough seas and follow any closure signs.
Walk north along Longsands to Cullercoats, then take the Metro back from Cullercoats station.
Combine the Fish Quay with the Shields Ferry to South Shields; times are on the Travel North East website.
Tips from the Britlens editors
Newcastle and Gateshead
Seven bridges, two riverbanks and the oldest streets in the city
Open the mini guide →
Classical streets, the Grainger Market, museums and the cathedral
Open the mini guide →
A valley of workshops, pubs and children's books, and a wooded dene
Open the mini guide →Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Newcastle and Gateshead
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