Pictures of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

About Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

Newbiggin-by-the-Sea has rapidly become a playground for sailing enthusiasts escaping town's and cities dominating the urban sprawl surrounding Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Gateshead.

In medieval times, Newbiggin was a prosperous grain port and not so very long ago the town's stability came from the coal mining industry which is now completely closed down, thus the town competes with others for its share of the tourist industry. It is a pleasant place to visit, with up-to-the-minute leisure facilities blending comfortably with reminders of the town's historic connections and interesting seafaring past which began during the 14th-century.

St.Bartholomew's church, standing in a favoured position close to the sea is of 13th-century origin and there is evidence of an even earlier church or chapel, possibly built by the monks from Lindisfarne. A town trail takes in the church together with other buildings of which the town is justifiably proud - these include - Cable House, the first telegram from Scandinavia came ashore at The Point in 1868. The Victorian building which was The Mechanics Institute can be seen, so too can The Hunters Lodge, The Brewery and the Lifeboat Station. The promenade shows a mix of attractive properties, making it a pleasant sea front attraction for a quiet evening stroll. On a more recent note it is worth mentioning that the novel 'Room at the Top' was written by John Brain whilst working at Newbiggin library in 1950.

A colourful resort with a good selection of holiday accommodation including a caravan park which is immensely popular with families, Newbiggin has plenty to offer. There is a new bandstand where local bands entertain summer visitors, the usual gift shops, craft shops, cafe's and inns.

The bay is a major attraction, often lively with fishing cobbles and pleasure craft, it is also a haven for sun-bathers. It is perfectly safe for swimming off shore and a lovely place for children to watch newly built sand castles swallowed up by gentle, lapping waves.

Places to visit include: Coastal village of Cresswell, Belsay Hall, the market town of Morpeth on the River Wansbeck, Wansbeck Riverside Park, Plessey Woods, enjoy a sea fishing trip or join a Town Trail.