Tynemouth Priory and Castle

Tynemouth Priory and Castle on the coast of North East England was once one of the largest fortified areas in England. Overlooking the North Sea and the River Tyne, it dominates the headland. With its 2000 year history and beautiful views it is the perfect location for a family fun day out including a delightful picnic spot with views of the river.

The interactive 'Life in the Stronghold' exhibition takes you on an exciting journey. It tells the story of the site from its original beginnings as an Anglo-Saxon settlement, an Anglican monastery, a royal castle, artillery fort and a coastal defence. Ideal for boosting the kids' schooling if they're on forts, or forming the basis for a secret schooling interest.

The newly refurbished battery gun was designed to defend the Tyne in the First and Second World Wars and can be explored. Kids can also dress up in Monks' robes so take the camera! There's an adventure playground for the kids to run off their fizz on and this attraction overlooks King Edward's Bay by Longsands Beach, so it's worth seeing our listing on that too!

It's worth noting that visitors who are parking in the village (with only disabled parking at the site itself) face a bracing 150m uphill walk and then 70m of cobbles at gatehouse, so plan ahead with mobility issues or little legs.