North Tyneside

North Tyneside is a metropolitan borough on the north bank of the River Tyne, opening onto the North Sea. It includes Tynemouth, North Shields, Whitley Bay and Wallsend, with a coastline of beaches, promenades and cliffs. Tynemouth Priory and Castle sit on the headland above Longsands and the Metro runs along the coastal spine, linking the district’s town centres and suburbs. St Mary’s Island and its lighthouse lie at the mouth of the Tyne and are a regular point for walkers and birdwatchers, while stretches of promenade and beach provide the main public waterfront access.

The borough has a maritime and industrial history visible in working quays and shipbuilding sites. North Shields Fish Quay remains an active centre for seafood, markets and processing. Wallsend contains the Roman fort of Arbeia and the town name reflects its position at the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall. Built-up residential areas sit alongside business parks, retail centres and community green space, and local transport links include the Metro and regional roads serving commuting and freight across the Tyne corridor.