300, North East Coastal Open Topper

Journey Overview

A breeze of a trip alongside the North Sea, with stunning views from this fab open top bus and great places to visit!

Starting in terrific Tynemouth the bus makes its way northwards with delightful views of the historic Tynemouth Priory and Castle, with Percy Chapel in the distance. Then it’s up East Street, closer to the cliff edge round Sea Banks and then circling past the Grand Hotel and beside Tynemouth Park with its pretty boating lake. The beach is down below and on the left is Tynemouth Acquarium as the bus heads up Grand Parade to the elegant Whitley Bay Promenade.

There’s a touch of class about this part of the world and also a cosmopolitan feel as the bus passes Spanish City, which is a hugely historic and glorious dining venue, oozing with seaside elegance and where its afternoon tea is famous! A bit further on is Waves Leisure Centre and then Whitley Bay Mini Golf.

Attractive green lawns are on the right, beside The Links road and overlooking the waves crashing in from the sea and St Mary’s Lighthouse has a watchful look as the bus comes to a denouement at the Parkdean Resort – which provides accommodation for the many scenic thrill seekers that throng to this fascinating and joyous part of the UK for a combination of traditional seaside fun and coastal capers, as well as eye-catching views – no better enjoyed than on the upper deck of this open top bus journey!

A Fab Day Out!

Start your day with breakfast in Tynemouth, where the sea air, independent cafés and relaxed coastal atmosphere make it the perfect place to ease into the day. Take your time over coffee, pastries or a full breakfast before having a wander through the town’s handsome streets, browsing the shops and soaking up the character that makes Tynemouth such a popular seaside spot. From there, head towards the coast and explore Tynemouth Priory, one of the most dramatic landmarks in the North East. Perched above the mouth of the River Tyne, the ruins offer spectacular views across the sea, the beaches and the coastline beyond.

After enjoying the history and scenery, continue your morning with a stroll through Tynemouth Park, a lovely green space with gardens, family activities and plenty of room to relax. If you are visiting with children, or simply fancy something a little different, Tynemouth Aquarium is also well worth including, with marine life displays that add an extra splash of discovery to the day.

When you are ready to explore further, hop aboard the open top bus and enjoy the ride along the coast. The journey itself is part of the experience, with fresh sea views, lively seaside streets and plenty of chances to spot places you may want to return to later. Continue towards Whitley Bay, where the promenade is ideal for a classic coastal walk. Stretch your legs by the sea, take in the views across the beach, then head into Whitley Bay town centre for shops, cafés and a relaxed seaside-town feel.

No visit to Whitley Bay is complete without seeing Spanish City, the beautifully restored coastal landmark with its distinctive dome and elegant seafront setting. Nearby, you can add some light-hearted fun at Whitley Bay Mini Golf, or make time for Waves Leisure Centre if you are planning a more active family day out. Further along the coast, St Mary’s Lighthouse is another highlight, standing on its tidal island and offering one of the most memorable views in the area.

As the day winds down, enjoy another open top ride back along the coast, letting the sea breeze and views round off the trip. You can also make the day even more adventurous by combining it with a journey from Sunderland or Newcastle to South Shields, then crossing over to Tynemouth by ferry for a brilliant coastal day out by bus and boat. The 333 bus connects with the Ferry at North Shields and takes folk to Tynmouth seafront for an easy change onto this fab open top service!