Running & Cycling the Coast
A guide to running and cycling in Tynemouth — from seafront promenades and coastal paths to the nearest parkrun and local clubs.
Tynemouth is a brilliant base for runners and cyclists. The combination of flat seafront promenades, dramatic clifftop paths, and quiet coastal roads makes for routes that feel more like a reward than a workout. Add in a nearby parkrun, active local clubs, and improving cycle infrastructure, and you have one of the best spots in the North East for getting out on foot or two wheels.
Best for: All routes described below are on public paths and roads — no special access or membership required.
Running Routes
Longsands Promenade — The paved promenade above Longsands Beach is the most popular running route in Tynemouth. It stretches for approximately one mile from the Priory headland to Cullercoats, is entirely flat, and offers unbroken sea views the whole way. An out-and-back gives you a comfortable two-mile run with no navigation required. Extend by continuing along the coastal path towards Whitley Bay.
The Coastal Loop — For a longer run, head north from Longsands along the coast through Cullercoats and Whitley Bay, then loop back via the inland paths or roads. The full coastal path from Tynemouth to St Mary's Island and back is roughly 10km and takes in beaches, rocky coves, and the lighthouse causeway. The terrain is a mix of tarmac, gravel, and short grassy sections.
Priory Headland Circuit — A short but scenic loop taking in the headland around the castle, the views over the river mouth, and the path down to King Edward's Bay. Roughly 2km with some inclines, it works well as a warm-up or a quick lunchtime run.
The Waggonways — Behind Tynemouth, a network of former colliery waggonways provides traffic-free paths heading inland. These flat, surfaced routes are excellent for easy running and connect through to parks and green spaces further from the coast.
Parkrun
The nearest parkrun to Tynemouth is Whitley Bay parkrun, which takes place every Saturday at 9am on Whitley Bay Links Common, adjacent to the bottom of Monkseaton Drive (NE26 1SZ). The course is run on a mixture of tarmac and gravel paths and is approximately a 10-minute cycle or 25-minute walk from central Tynemouth.
Parkrun is free, timed, and open to all abilities — you can run, jog, or walk the 5km course. Register online at parkrun.org.uk before your first event and bring your printed barcode.
There is also a Whitley Bay junior parkrun on Sunday mornings for children aged 4-14, covering a 2km course on the same site.
Running Clubs
Tyne Bridge Harriers — One of the largest running clubs in Newcastle, with members across the region including North Tyneside. They offer coached sessions, group runs, and compete in local road races, cross country, and fell events. Welcoming to all abilities from beginners to competitive club runners.
For more casual group runs, the sea swimming groups and outdoor fitness communities around Tynemouth often organise informal running meetups — check local Facebook groups for details.
Cycling Routes
Longsands to Whitley Bay — The seafront route north from Tynemouth to Whitley Bay is one of the most scenic short rides in the area. A combination of shared-use paths and quiet roads takes you along the coast past Cullercoats and the Spanish City dome. The route is largely flat and suitable for all abilities, covering approximately 4km each way.
Tynemouth to St Mary's Island — Extending further north, you can ride all the way to St Mary's Lighthouse on a mix of cycle paths and quiet residential streets. The round trip is roughly 12km and makes for a pleasant hour's cycling with stops for views along the way.
The Coast and Castles Route — Tynemouth sits on National Cycle Network Route 1, which runs along the coast and eventually heads north towards Northumberland. For a longer day ride, you can follow this route towards Blyth and beyond on dedicated cycle paths for much of the distance.
Inland via the Waggonways — The same former colliery waggonways that work for running are also excellent for cycling — flat, traffic-free, and connecting through to Rising Sun Country Park and the wider North Tyneside path network.
Cycling Clubs
North Tyneside Riders — A cycling club based in North Tyneside, open to anyone who loves riding their bike. Established in 2014, they organise regular group rides catering to different abilities and distances. A friendly and inclusive club for road, gravel, and social riding.
Practical Tips
Wind. The coast is exposed, and headwinds off the North Sea can make running and cycling significantly harder than expected. Check the wind direction before heading out — a tailwind on the way out means a headwind coming back.
Surface variety. The coastal paths switch between tarmac, compacted gravel, and short grassy sections. Road shoes work fine for most routes, but trail shoes give better grip in winter. For cycling, hybrid or gravel bikes handle the paths best.
Facilities. There are public toilets at Longsands, Cullercoats, and Whitley Bay. Cafes along the route make natural coffee stops — the options at Longsands and Cullercoats are particularly popular with runners and cyclists.
Bike storage. If you are visiting by train, Tynemouth Metro station has cycle parking. Most cafes and pubs in the village are happy for you to lean bikes outside while you refuel.
Know a great route or club we should feature? Get in touch.