Whitley Bay
Originally named simply 'Whitley' from an old Anglo Saxon word meaning 'White Meadow', the town was later renamed 'Whitley Bay' to prevent confusion with nearby Whitby. The town grew very rapidly during the early part of the twentieth century, firstly as a fashionable Victorian watering hole and then as popular holiday destination for workers from the north of England and Scotland during the 1950's and 1960's.
Still famous for its curving golden sands and iconic lighthouse the town remains a popular holiday destination with a lively pub and club scene but it also boasts a wide range of niche shops offering something for everyone and making a refreshing change from the typical bland high streets of so many towns and cities.
