Everyone’s favourite coastal hotspot has a lot hiding beneath the surface. Alongside Whitley Bay, Cullercoats, and Blyth, the village of Tynemouth is a staple of the coastline north of the Tyne. With shops, pubs, and eateries galore – as well as plenty of seaside views – it’s no surprise that Tynemouth is one of the North East’s most popular places.
But there is more to Tynemouth than meets the eye. Beyond the delights of Front Street, there are secrets more delicious than fish and chips by the sea (ok, maybe we wouldn’t go that far, but it’s close.)
Luckily, we’re here to fill you in. Let’s take a closer look at all the Tynemouth has to offer. Here are five things you didn’t know about one of the most visited places in the North East.
Pirates used to live in the cliffs
Did you know that, below Tynemouth Priory, there lies a network of caves with a strange and often bloody history? Situated in the cliffs along from King Edward’s Bay, Jingling Geordie’s Hole is thought to have been the hideout of 17th Century pirate Jingling Geordie.
Geordie was a rascal, and would hide in the caves and watch for oncoming ships, luring them to the rocks with lanterns so that they crashed. Then, he would loot the wreckage for treasure, which some believe is still stored in the caves!
You can buy ice cream from a phonebox
Returning to the present day, visitors to Tynemouth can now enjoy a tasty treat, courtesy of Front Street’s red telephone box. This is all thanks to Jonathan Parsons, who opened the Telephone Box Cafe in Tynemouth at the end of May!
Speaking to the BBC, Parsons said, “There are a few [phonebox cafés] in London, but none of us like to venture very much up there. Why would you when you’ve got Tynemouth?” Well said!
Three kings are buried in Tynemouth Priory
Pesky pirates aren’t the only things hiding beneath Tynemouth’s iconic Priory and Castle. The historical site is also said to be the burial place of three kings: Oswin, Osred, and Malcolm III, the latter of whom is the famous king in Shakespeare’s cursed play, Macbeth!
Though some dispute whether the kings are actually buried at the site, the tale has even found its way into Tynemouth’s crest, which features three crowns.
Its beaches are award-winning
Tynemouth is famous not only for its great eateries and fascinating history, but for its beautiful beaches too. Both King Edward’s Bay and Longsands Beach have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag and Seaside Award, ranking among the best beaches in the country!
The Blue Flag is an international award for the UK’s cleanest and best-maintained beaches, while the Seaside Award recognises the highest beach management standards in England.
The pier took 40 years to built – and then broke!
Tynemouth Pier is another iconic landmark of the North East coastline, whether you’re strolling along it on a sunny day or watching the waves crash against it in the depths of winter.
And creating the pier was definitely a labour of love. Work on the pier began in 1854 and took a whopping 56 years to complete, even breaking at one point and forcing the crew to start again!
We’ve only scratched the surface of all that Tynemouth has to offer. Why not visit the village yourself and see what hidden treasures you can uncover?
The North East Way 
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