Families in Whitley Bay
Things to do with kids, schools, nurseries, tutors, family-friendly events, and local services — everything families need in Whitley Bay.
Family Guides
Summer Holiday Activities in Whitley Bay: The Complete Guide for Families
Beach days, rockpooling, free holiday activities, swimming, and the library reading challenge -- everything you need to fill six weeks of summer in Whitley Bay.
Find a Tutor in Whitley Bay
Kumon, The Learning Tree, piano and guitar tutors, and online platforms -- your guide to finding private tuition in Whitley Bay.
Best Soft Play Centres Near Whitley Bay
Acorn and Oak, The Treehouse, Runamokka, and Waves — Whitley Bay has more soft play options than you might think.
Baby & Toddler Groups in Whitley Bay
Family hubs, library rhyme time, Hartbeeps, and baby swimming — toddler groups in Whitley Bay.
Birthday Party Venues in Whitley Bay
Ice rink, Waves, Spanish City, and soft play — birthday party venues in Whitley Bay.
A Rainy Day in Whitley Bay
Ice rink, Waves slides, the Playhouse, and Spanish City — rainy day activities in Whitley Bay.
Best Playgrounds in Whitley Bay
The Links water park, beach play, and Waves — best play spots in Whitley Bay.
Skate Parks Near Whitley Bay
Panama Skatepark on the seafront is one of the best in the North East. Here's what else is nearby.
School Holidays: North Tyneside Term Dates 2025-2027
Every half term, holiday, and INSET day for North Tyneside schools in 2025-26 and 2026-27. What Whitley Bay parents need to know.
Best Nurseries in Whitley Bay
Nurseries and childcare in Whitley Bay — Ofsted ratings, funded places, and what to look for.
Free Things to Do in Whitley Bay
Blue Flag beach, St Mary's Lighthouse at low tide, the seafront promenade, Panama Skatepark, and the annual carnival — the best free days out in Whitley Bay.
Swimming in Whitley Bay
Waves leisure centre with its wave machine and slides, sea swimming at the beach, and the Panama Swimming Club — every way to swim in Whitley Bay.
Best Schools in Whitley Bay
Whitley Bay High School (Outstanding), four first schools, and what parents need to know about North Tyneside's three-tier system.
Dog-Friendly Whitley Bay
Seasonal beach rules, year-round coastal walks, and dog-friendly pubs and cafes — everything you need for a day out in Whitley Bay with your dog.
Best Walks from Whitley Bay
Four coastal walks from Whitley Bay — from the seafront promenade to Tynemouth to the tidal causeway at St Mary's Lighthouse.
Upcoming Family Events
View all events →Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors — Northern Stage
10:00 AM · Northern Stage
From £12Pre-School Day — Life Science Centre
9:30 AM - 3:00 PM · Centre for Life
Little Artists — Laing Art Gallery
10:30 AM · Laing Art Gallery
FREERelaxed Sunday Session — Life Science Centre
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM · Centre for Life
Included with admissionHeritage Train Rides — Stephenson Steam Railway Opening Day
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM · Stephenson Steam Railway
TBCLive Skies in the Planetarium
2:00 PM · Centre for Life
Tutors & Classes
Browse all 19 tutors →Local tutors and classes for children and adults in Whitley Bay.
Schools & Education
Find schools, nurseries, and educational resources in Whitley Bay. Our education guide covers the local school system, Ofsted ratings, and how to choose the right setting for your child.
Family-Friendly Places
Full directory →Spanish City
Sports & LeisureThe North East's most iconic seafront building, the Grade II listed Spanish City dome originally opened in 1910 as a concert hall and tearoom. Beautifully restored and reopened in 2018, it now houses restaurants, a tearoom, and event spaces beneath its landmark dome.
Whitley Bay Playhouse
Sports & LeisureA state-of-the-art theatre and entertainment venue hosting music, drama, comedy, dance, and family shows throughout the year. The Playhouse is a cultural centrepiece for the town with a busy programme of touring productions and local events.
Waves Leisure Centre
Sports & LeisureA popular leisure centre near the seafront with a swimming pool featuring wave machine and flumes, gym, spa facilities, and soft play area. A go-to destination for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.
St Mary's Lighthouse
Sports & LeisureA much-loved landmark on a small tidal island just north of Whitley Bay, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Climb the 137 steps for spectacular coastal views, explore the visitor centre and nature reserve, or enjoy world-class birdwatching from the hide.
Panama Skatepark
Sports & LeisureA purpose-built outdoor skatepark on the seafront, opened in 2008. Features two bowls, ramps, driveways, and walls, attracting skateboarders and BMX riders of all abilities. Free to use and right next to the beach.
Whitley Bay Community Hub & Library
CommunityThe town's public library and community hub, offering book lending, computer access, community events, children's activities, and local information services. A welcoming space for residents of all ages.
Acorn & Oak Play Cafe
Sports & LeisureSoft play cafe for ages 0-8 with a three-level play frame, large baby sensory area, and a dedicated sensory room available for private hire. On-site cafe with drinks and treats.
The Treehouse
Sports & LeisureEstablished soft play venue with 3,000 sq ft of play equipment for children up to age 8. Toddler area with log climb and slide, plus a larger frame with rope bridges. Cafe with good coffee and a free car park outside.
Runamokka
Sports & LeisureSoft play and cafe on Whitley Road with upmarket decor, leather sofas, and a calm atmosphere. A relaxed option for parents who want a comfortable space while children play.