10 Things you should know about Whitley Bay

1. It is NOT Whitby, Yorkshire. Back in the 19th century Whitley Bay was just called Whitley. Which caused great confusion with Whitby, which meant post was misdirected and residents got annoyed. The final straw came when an ex-resident of Whitley died in Edinburgh but his body was due to be buried in Whitley. Unfortuntely, the body was taken to Whitby, the funeral was delayed, people were in uproar and the council decided they had to do something about it and asked for new name suggestions, enter, Whitley Bay.

2. Dire Straits sung about it. I quote ‘And girl it looks so pretty to me just like it always did. Like the Spanish city to me when we where kids', Tunnel of Love (1980). The Spanish City was a fairground located in Whitley Bay, it has subsequently been demolished but there are big plans for regenerating the area which we will come on to now.

3. Spanish City is set for a multi million pound regeneration with the Spanish City Dome, a grade II listed building, being the centerpiece with plans to include top hotels and leisure developments.

4. It was once the regions premier concert venue, hosting names as big as The Jam, The Cure, Oasis and the Stone Roses. Now, visitors and residents alike have travel to Newcastle (Metro Radio Arena) for concerts but fortunately it is:

5. Only 9 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne and is connected to the Tyne and Wear Metro making it a mere 25 minute journey to Newcastle city centre

6. Calling all Stags & Hens (to stay away?). Whitley Bay's principal nightlife location is South Parade. A bustling street that winds its way from the town centre to the seafront. Lined with bars, hotels, guesthouses and restaurants it also hosts two top nightclubs in the area.

7. Park View. The place to go for shopping. It is known locally for a host of independent shops selling unique products which makes a welcome change to the average high street and typical big retail outlets found.

8. Unchained Melody: Whitley Bay was once home to the well loved English actor, singer - songwriter and presenter Robson Green. Other famous stars who have chosen to reside there at one time or another are Toby Flood (England Rugby Union international), Tom Hadaway - playwright, Graham Fenton - footballer, Ian La Frenais - comedy writer, (The Likely Lads, Porridge, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet)

9. "Bugger off back to Whitley Bay the pair of you!" Victor Meldrew, One Foot In The Grave, famously put Whitley Bay back on the map by spouting this to his oddball friends Ronnie and Mildred.

10. If none of the above nine points has enticed you enough to visit Whitley Bay then maybe this last point will. It has been, and continues to be a popular tourist resort with people coming from far and wide to experience the magic that is Whitley Bay. Rich in history and full of atmosphere you can encounter award winning ice cream, bars and parties, fish and chips, sea front amusements, invigorating coastal walks, wide open spaces and magnificent views.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Northumberland Cottages who offer cottages to rent in Northumberland perfect for a Northumberland short break