Best Sunday Lunch in Whitley Bay

A proper Sunday lunch is one of those things that Whitley Bay does exceptionally well. The coast has everything from Grade II listed coaching inns with flagstone floors to fine dining beneath the Spanish City dome, and a growing number of independent kitchens putting their own stamp on the traditional roast. Here are the best places to book a table.

The Beehive, Earsdon

The Beehive on Hartley Lane is, by most local accounts, the Sunday lunch destination on this stretch of coast. The Grade II listed building dates from the eighteenth century and became an inn in 1896, and it sits between Earsdon and Hartley with views towards St Mary's Island. The kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients and the menu changes regularly, but you can typically expect a choice of slow-cooked beef brisket, roast chicken, and a vegetarian option, all served with proper Yorkshire puddings and seasonal vegetables. The one-acre secret garden is a bonus in summer. Book well in advance -- tables go quickly, and they do not take online bookings. Call 0191 252 9352.

Best for: Best for: the full traditional experience in a historic setting. Book by phone only.

1910 Steak and Seafood at Spanish City

1910 Steak and Seafood serves Sunday lunch beneath the restored dome of the Spanish City, making it one of the most striking dining rooms in the North East. The three-course set menu features roast sirloin with beef dripping roasties, cauliflower cheese, roast carrots, and a generously tall Yorkshire pudding. Seafood starters and desserts round out an impressive meal. It is not cheap, but for a special occasion the combination of food, setting, and panoramic sea views is hard to beat. Booking is essential -- tables fill up well before the weekend.

Best for: Best for: special occasions and visitors. Fine dining beneath the dome with sea views.

Victoria and Albert Inn, Seaton Delaval

The Victoria and Albert Inn is an independent, family-run gastropub dating back to 1839, a short drive north of Whitley Bay in Seaton Delaval. Everything is sourced locally and prepared fresh on the premises. Sunday roasts come with creamy mash, swede, crispy roasties, Yorkshire pudding, carrots, broccoli, and lashings of proper gravy. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. The secluded beer garden makes it a fine spot on a warm afternoon. Sunday hours are 12pm to 10:30pm, and booking is strongly recommended.

Best for: Best for: a family-run gastropub with proper home-cooked food and vegan options.

The Beach House

The Beach House at 19 East Parade sits right on the seafront, and its Sunday roasts have quickly earned a following since the cafe bar opened. Choose from topside of beef, roast belly pork, or roast chicken, all served with the trimmings including cauliflower cheese and braised red cabbage. Hot roast pork and beef stotties with roasties and gravy are available for those who want something less formal. Sunday roasts are served from 1pm to 4pm, though the full brunch menu is available from 8am. Dog friendly, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the beach.

Best for: Best for: a relaxed Sunday by the sea with the option of a stottie instead of a roast.

The Briar Dene

The Briar Dene sits on The Links at the northern end of the promenade, within walking distance of St Mary's Lighthouse. It is a spacious, family-friendly pub with a dining room, casual bar area, and an outside terrace with coastal views. The Sunday menu covers traditional roasts alongside a broader selection of pub classics, so there is something for everyone. It is a reliable choice for larger groups and families with children, and dogs are welcome too. Free car parking on site.

Best for: Best for: families, groups, and post-walk refuelling near St Mary's Lighthouse.

The Lough Ran

The Lough Ran at 203 Park View brings a touch of art deco glamour to the Sunday roast. This family-run cocktail bar and bistro serves full roast dinners on Sundays alongside its regular menu of tapas-style dishes, charcuterie boards, and hot stotties. The 1930s-inspired interior features peacock wallpaper, plush velvet seating, and a flower wall -- making it one of the more stylish places to have a roast on the coast. Dog friendly.

Best for: Best for: a roast with cocktails and art deco glamour on Park View.

Al Bear

Al Bear at 46 Park View is better known for its pizzas and bottomless brunch, but its Sunday lunch menu has quietly earned a loyal following. The kitchen puts a contemporary twist on the traditional format, and the vegetarian options are genuinely good -- the goat's cheese and spinach pie has been singled out by reviewers. The drinks list runs to cocktails, craft beers, and a decent wine selection. A solid choice if you want a Sunday lunch that does something slightly different.

Best for: Best for: a modern take on the roast, strong vegetarian options, and cocktails.

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Booking tip: The Beehive, 1910, and Victoria and Albert all fill up quickly -- book at least a few days ahead, especially for groups. The Beach House and Briar Dene are easier to walk into, but calling ahead is still wise on sunny weekends.

See also our guides to the best restaurants in Whitley Bay, the best pubs in Whitley Bay, and best brunch in Whitley Bay.