What's On This Weekend in Tynemouth & North Tyneside
From Tynemouth Station Market and surf lessons at Longsands to the Priory and Whitley Bay parkrun, here is what to do on the coast this weekend (9-10 May 2026).
The weather is warming up and the coast is coming back to life. Whether you fancy a browse around the market, a dip in the sea, or a family afternoon at the aquarium, there is plenty to keep you busy in Tynemouth and North Tyneside this weekend.
Tynemouth Station Market
Saturday and Sunday, 9am-3.30pm | Tynemouth Metro Station | Free entry
The region's best-loved weekend market returns beneath the Victorian station canopy with over 150 stalls selling artisan food, vintage finds, handmade jewellery, crafts, and homeware. Street food traders line the platform, and the covered roof means you can browse whatever the weather throws at you.
Arrive by Metro for the easiest trip -- Tynemouth station is, of course, right above the market itself.
Best for: Over 150 stalls every weekend, rain or shine, inside one of the North East's finest Victorian stations.
Whitley Bay parkrun
Saturday, 9am | Whitley Bay Links Common (off Monkseaton Drive, NE26 1SZ) | Free
A free, timed 5k run, jog, or walk along the seafront every Saturday morning. Open to all ages and abilities -- just remember to bring a printed or smartphone barcode. The junior parkrun for 4-14 year olds takes place on Sunday mornings.
Surf Lessons at Longsands
Saturday and Sunday, 11am and 2pm | Longsands Beach | From around 15 pounds per session
Both Longsands Surf School and Tynemouth Surf Co run weekend beginner and improver sessions throughout spring and summer. Two-hour lessons include wetsuit and board hire, and the May swell can be surprisingly good. Book online in advance to secure a spot, as weekend sessions fill up quickly once the sun comes out.
Best for: May water temperatures sit around 9-10 degrees, so a good wetsuit is essential -- the surf schools provide all the kit you need.
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
Saturday and Sunday, 10am-5pm (last entry 4.15pm) | Tynemouth Headland | English Heritage members free; standard admission applies
One of the most dramatic heritage sites on the North East coast is open daily through the spring. Explore the medieval priory ruins, the gatehouse, and the WWII gun battery perched above the mouth of the Tyne. English Heritage is currently offering 30% off tickets when you book online in advance.
Tynemouth Aquarium
Open daily, 10am-5pm | Grand Parade, Longsands Beach
The aquarium on the seafront is a reliable option for families, whatever the weather. Daily talks and feeding sessions are included with your ticket, covering everything from seal feeds to the tropical tanks. Check tynemouthaquarium.co.uk for current admission prices and any special events running this weekend.
Coastal Walk: Fish Quay to St Mary's Lighthouse
If you want to make the most of a dry spell, the full North Tyneside coastal walk from the Fish Quay to St Mary's Island is roughly seven kilometres of beaches, bays, and clifftop paths. You can pick it up at any point along the route -- a shorter stretch from Cullercoats to Whitley Bay takes around 40 minutes and passes some of the best views on the coast.
What Else Is On
The pubs and restaurants along Front Street and the Fish Quay are in full weekend swing, and Salt Market Social on the quayside hosts regular street food and live music events. For the latest listings, check the Visit North Tyneside events page.
Know something happening this weekend? Get in touch.