Tynemouth - River, Priory & Sands

Essential Intel

This quest includes lots of steps, sand to walk across and some steep hills, including a hill back up towards the Priory. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Scout dogs may not be allowed on the beach during high season, so please check the signs. If you have a scout dog with you during high season, use the prom and ramp instead of the sand.

The North Pier is currently closed off to the general public because of storms and vandalism.

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Treasure Hunt around Tynemouth River, Priory & Sands, with Explorers helping Digger Tupp and the Exploration Society follow a map discovered at Tynemouth Priory and track down the legendary Great Golden Goblet before other treasure-seekers get there first.

The quest covers 3 miles and should take around 3 hours to complete. You'll start at Tynemouth Metro Station, head through the town towards the river and Low Lights area, continue down to the sand and along the beach, then work your way back via Tynemouth Park, Spanish Battery and the Priory before returning towards the station.

This Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Expect lots of steps, sand underfoot, a hill back up towards the Priory and some steep hills along the way.

Take care when crossing roads several times, including the main road and zebra crossings. The river mouth and pier area can be hazardous, so keep Mini Explorers close and follow the route instructions carefully around the beach and waterfront sections.

Getting There

By car: The quest starts at Tynemouth Metro Station (NE30 4RE). The recommended alternative parking option is Sea View pay and display car park (NE30 4PR).

By public transport: Arrive by train at Tynemouth Metro Station, where the Trail begins. The route loops back to Tynemouth Metro Station, with the final instructions sending you back via Percy Park Road and Huntington Place.

Need the Loo?

Public toilets are available in The Low Lights car park, near Clues 08 and 09, making this a useful comfort stop as your band of Explorers works through the riverfront section.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Explorers can join the hunt, with beach restrictions to watch for. 🐾

This is a dog-friendly Trail, but scout dogs may not be allowed on the beach, so check the signs. During high season, use the prom and ramp instead of the sand. The route also includes roads, zebra crossings, steps, sand, steep hills and the river mouth and pier area, so keep canine companions close throughout.

Food & Drink Stops

Golden Goblet hunting calls for decent supplies. The Trail recommends packing picnic supplies and refuelling halfway along the route, and Tynemouth Park has open space around the lake.

There are cafes at Clue 15 and at the end of the Trail, and the route also passes a row of shops near Clue 44.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Tynemouth Priory and Castle

The Priory and Castle sits above Front Street and marks a major point in the route. The Trail takes you to explore the entrance area before carrying on downhill into the town, making it a natural place to linger if your Explorers want more historic atmosphere with their treasure-hunting.

Tynemouth Park

Tynemouth Park was a major holiday spot before people went abroad more often, and it still has plenty for families to enjoy. Look out for the bandstand, crazy golf and boating lake, or use the open space around the lake for a well-earned picnic pause.

Tynemouth Metro Station

Your adventure starts at Tynemouth Metro Station, but it is worth more than a quick glance before the hunt begins. The station has a canopy and fine wrought ironwork, was facing demolition in the 1980s, was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2007, then restored after local fundraising and reopened in 2012.

Spanish Battery

On the way back towards the Priory, the route takes you into the area known as Spanish Battery before you cross the road bridge and head uphill again. It is a good moment to slow the expedition pace, take in this distinctive part of the route and prepare for the final climb back towards the Priory.