Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Tynemouth has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Tynemouth.
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Sights in Tynemouth
Tynemouth is a town in North East England, situated on the coast at the mouth of the River Tyne. It is within the borough of North Tyneside and forms part of the conurbation of North Shields and Tynemouth. Historically part of Northumberland, it had a population of 20,013 in 2001. Tynemouth is home to two castles, an awardwinning beach and a historic marketplace.
The history of Tynemouth is long and varied. It was first settled by the Romans in the 2nd century AD and was later fortified by them as they built Hadrian’s Wall. In the 7th century, the Angles established the Kingdom of Northumbria and Tynemouth became its capital. The town prospered and became a significant trading centre during the Middle Ages, but its importance declined after the dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century.
During the Industrial Revolution, Tynemouth expanded rapidly as coal mining and shipbuilding became major industries in the town. The town was almost completely destroyed during the Battle of Tynemouth in World War I, but it was quickly rebuilt afterwards.
Today, Tynemouth’s economy is largely based on tourism and retail. The town’s two main attractions are its beaches and its castle. The Longsands and Kingsmans beaches are both popular with surfers and have been awarded Blue Flag status. The castles, which are both located on headlands overlooking the town, are also popular tourist destinations.
Tynemouth Market, which is located in the town centre, is one of the largest markets in North East England. It sells a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, clothes, flowers and craft items. The market is open six days a week and also has a speciality food court.
Other places of interest in Tynemouth include the Grand Hotel, the Spanish Battery, the Priory Church and the Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade Museum. The town also has a golf course, several parks and a leisure centre.
History of Tynemouth
Tynemouth is a town and a historic port on the north bank of the River Tyne, in North Tyneside, England. It had a population of 18,341 in 2011. It is about 3 miles (5 km) east of the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and 12 miles (19 km) southeast of the city of Sunderland.
Tynemouth is first recorded in the 7th century as Tinanemouth. This is disputed, with modern historians believing it to be of Irish origin meaning ‘house’ or ‘settlement’. However, the first undeniable reference is in Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People, completed in 731, where he writes: ‘At that time there were two famous monasteries in Britain, namely, those of Lindisfarne and of Tynemouth, which latter place, being remote from the rest of the kingdom, was always attacked by pirates’.
The town’s strategic position along the River Tyne and its deepwater harbour made it an ideal target for the Vikings, who attacked and destroyed the original monastery in 875. The town was subsequently rebuilt and became an important commercial and fishing port.
The castle, which overlooks the town and harbour, was built in the early 12th century by Henry I as a defence against the Scottish. It was later enhanced by Edward I, who added a keep, inner and outer wards. The castle saw considerable action during the AngloScottish Wars, with the siege of 1464–67 being particularly notable.
During the industrial revolution, Tynemouth became a coal mining town. The miners’ cottages, many of which still stand, were built to house families who had been displaced from their farms by the enclosures. The rapid growth of the coal mining industry led to a corresponding growth in the shipbuilding industry, and by the late 19th century Tynemouth was one of the largest shipbuilding centres in the world.
The first lifeboat station was established in the town in 1810, and the lifeboat crew were responsible for saving over 600 lives. The town’s lifeboat history is commemorated by a statue of Williamcélèbre lifeboatman Henry Blagg, which stands on the promenade.
During the Second World War, Tynemouth was one of the main targets of German air raids, due to its strategic position and the shipyards and munitions factories located there. Over 1,600 people were killed and much of the town centre was destroyed.
Today, Tynemouth is a popular tourist destination, with its awardwinning beaches, medieval castle and priory, and antique markets. The town centre has a wide range of shops, pubs and restaurants, and there is also a Metro station, providing direct access to Newcastle upon Tyne.
Vacation in Tynemouth
Tynemouth is a historic town and borough located in Tyne and Wear, North East England. The town is situated at the mouth of the River Tyne, and has two main centres of population, North Shields and South Shields, separated by the river. North Tyneside, of which Tynemouth is part, also includes the settlements of Whitley Bay and Wallsend.
Tynemouth is easy to get to by both car and public transport, being just a short distance from the A1 and A19 roads, and with good links to the Tyne and Wear Metro system. Visitors to Tynemouth will find plenty to see and do, with a wide range of attractions to suit all tastes.
The town’s location means that it is perfect for those who want to enjoy a seaside break, with miles of clean sandy beaches to relax on, as well as a number of water sports and activities such as sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of parks and open spaces to enjoy, along with a host of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. History buffs will also find plenty to interest them, with Tynemouth boasting a number of important historical sites such as Tynemouth Castle, Priory and Abbey.
Whether you’re looking for a funfilled family holiday, a romantic getaway or a place to enjoy some peace and quiet, Tynemouth has something for everyone.
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