Tynemouth Priory

When we were staying at Martineau Guest house in Tynemouth last December, our room offered spectacular views of Tynemouth Priory. It was then that I realised I had never actually paid the priory a visit so when we started planning our Mother's Day weekend in Tynemouth, a trip to the priory was top of our list.

We hadn't read anything about the priory before and just thought it would be a nice place to walk around for a few hours and re-live history. It turns out there is lots more to discover and enjoy than we imagined including:-

• A Life in the stronghold exhibition
• A beautiful 13th Century chapel
• A newly restored gun battery
• Fantastic views across the North Sea 

The Priory and Castle

The Priory and Castle are the perfect place for families to explore. Our children loved running around, reading the signs and climbing over walls. You can climb right to the top of the castle where the views from around are spectacular.

A Life in the stronghold exhibition

There is a lovely small interactive exhibition in the Warrant Officer's house which allows visitors to discover Tynemouth from it's Anglo Saxon routes right up to it's importance in World War II. Children can dress up as monk, listen to recordings, play games, complete fact sheets and borrow a book from the book box (Heidi loved the 'How to be a Princess' guide). For such a small space, there is lots to do and discover.

13th Century Chapel

The Chapel may have been my favourite part of our visit. It was peaceful, tranquil and full of history. The stained glass windows were gorgeous.

Gun Battery

Our children adored the Gun battery and accompanying underground exhibition. History was really brought to life as we walked through the underground bunkers. I had no idea this was here but there is lots to learn about WWI and WWII.

Fantastic views across the North sea

There are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic and enjoy the stunning Coastal views. We will definitely be returning in the Summer to do just that.

Family Fun and educational

We spent almost three hours at the priory. This was the first time our five year old daughter has been able to perfectly read information signs that were dotted around places of interest and it really did capture her imagination. We enjoyed learning about the World War's and the history of Tynemouth.

All you need to know

• Tynemouth Priory is open 10am to 4pm on weekends only until 27th March. 
• From 28th March - 30th September it is open daily from 10am-6pm.
• Entry is £4.90 per adult and £2.90 for children. Under 5's are free. 
• Tynemouth Priory is managed by English Heritage, if you are a member, entry is free!
• The Priory is dog friendly (on leads)

There is no on-site catering but picnics are welcome and you are just two minutes away from a huge selection of restaurants, pubs, cafes and bars on Tynemouth Front street. 

If you have enjoyed reading about our trip to Tynemouth Priory, please consider nominating us for a Brilliance in Blogging award. 

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