The Tyne and Wear Metro system is an ideal way to explore further afield.  It is one of the most efficient modes of transport in England and offers a variety of ticket prices including the Metro DaySaver which allows you all day unlimited Metro travel.

Join the Metro at any of the three Newcastle city centre stations (Central Station, Monument or Haymarket) or at Gateshead and travel to the suburb of Jesmond (Metro Stations:  Jesmond or West Jesmond).     If it’s Sunday morning head for Armstrong Bridge in Jesmond Dene and enjoy the open air artists’ market.   Even if it’s not Sunday, Jesmond Dene is still worth visiting to enjoy the peace of this beautiful woodland valley which lies within just one mile of Newcastle’s bustling city centre.   Visit Pets’ Corner and Millfield House  (café and toilets).

Rejoin the Metro at any local Jesmond station and travel in the direction of the Coast (Whitley Bay/Tynemouth) for some sea breezes and brilliant beaches.  Whitley Bay enjoys a party atmosphere in the evenings with clubs and pubs but during the day families will enjoy playing along the Promenade or down on the beach.   Walk south to pretty Cullercoats village set around its sweeping sandy bay.   For the energetic the walk continues south again to the historic village of Tynemouth (alternatively catch the Metro from Whitley Bay or Cullercoats stations).   The striking and photogenic ruins of medieval Tynemouth Priory and Castle stand proudly on a steep, rocky outcrop at the mouth of the River Tyne.   Take a moment just to sit and watch for any river traffic moving along the river.  

Tynemouth village offers small, individual shops and some refreshment opportunities.  

From Tynemouth Metro Station it is a straightforward return to NewcastleGateshead with an optional stop at Wallsend Metro Station for a 12 minute walk to the Roman fort site at Segedunum (allow 1-1.5 hours).

Or for those with a bit more time try this:  travel from Tynemouth Metro Station to North Shields Metro Station.  Disembark and walk down to the River Tyne to board the Shields Ferry for the 7 minute crossing from North Shields to South Shields where there is another Roman fort site at Arbeia and the South Shields Museum and Gallery.  Be prepared for a good deal of walking on this route, although both North and South Shields do have a public bus service.

Rejoin the Metro to travel direct to NewcastleGateshead.

Why this route...?[/url]
Why not! It’s a fantastic day out and the Tyne and Wear Metro makes it great value for money.

Other Attractions related to this theme...
• Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth
• St Mary’s Lighthouse, Whitley Bay

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