Longsands Beach

About Longsands Beach

Longsands is the beach that defines Tynemouth: a broad, gently shelving stretch of sand running for the best part of a kilometre between the village headland and Cullercoats to the north. Consistently named among the finest beaches in the country, it is the heart of the town's outdoor life, drawing families, swimmers, dog walkers and one of the most active surf communities on the North East coast. The promenade above the sand is lined with cafes, ice cream parlours and surf shops, and the ruined priory looming over the southern end gives the whole scene a dramatic backdrop.

There is plenty to do beyond building sandcastles. The northern end holds rock pools to explore at low tide, the water is popular for swimming and bodyboarding through the warmer months, and lessons run from the surf schools on the front. Grand Parade above the beach has pay-and-display parking, public toilets and steps and ramps down to the sand. It is free to visit and open all year, at its liveliest on a sunny summer weekend but arguably at its best on a bracing, near-empty winter morning.

Featured in These Guides

Blog posts and guides that feature Longsands Beach.

Family Activities in Tynemouth: Days Out with the Kids

The best family days out in Tynemouth, from Longsands and the Blue Reef Aquarium to Tynemouth Park boating lake, the weekend market and rainy-day soft play, grouped so you can plan around the weather.

Date Night in Tynemouth: Restaurants, Bars and Things to Do

Where to eat, drink and wander for a romantic evening in Tynemouth, from Front Street restaurants and cocktail bars to beach-shack seafood and a sunset walk to the priory.