King Edwards Bay
Tyne and Wear
King Edwards Bay is a sheltered, compact sandy bay tucked on the south side of the Tynemouth headland, overlooked by the ruins of Tynemouth Priory and Castle. The bay is intimate and protected from northerly swells by the headland, making it calmer than the open Longsands to the north. The combination of the castle ruins above and the sandy beach below is one of the most picturesque scenes on the North East coast. The bay is accessible via steps from the headland car park and promenade area, and the town of Tynemouth with all its amenities is just a short walk away.
A seasonal dog ban applies to the full extent of King Edwards Bay from 1 May to 30 September under the North Tyneside Dog Exclusion Order. The entire beach is off limits to dogs during this period. Outside the restriction season, the bay is open to dogs and is a charming, quieter option compared to the larger Longsands. The sheltered character and relatively modest size make it a pleasant spot for a short off-lead beach walk in autumn, winter and spring.
At a Glance
Beach Must-Haves
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LumoLeaf Portable Dog Water Bottles
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Mud Daddy 8L Portable Pet Washing Device
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Dog Travel Bag
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Dog Tie Out Stake and Run Cable
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Dog Life Jacket
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Frequently Asked Questions
King Edwards Bay is dog friendly outside of the summer season, earning a rating of 5 out of 10 on our directory. When dogs are permitted, it's a lovely spot — a sheltered, intimate sandy bay with the dramatic backdrop of Tynemouth Priory and Castle above. Just be aware that a seasonal ban applies for a significant chunk of the year, so timing your visit is essential.
No — a seasonal dog ban is in place across the full extent of King Edwards Bay from 1 May to 30 September under the North Tyneside Dog Exclusion Order, meaning the entire beach is off limits to dogs during this period. Outside those months, from October through to the end of April, dogs are welcome and the bay makes for a calm, quieter alternative to the nearby Longsands.
The most important thing to plan around is the seasonal ban running from 1 May to 30 September — visit outside this window and you'll find a sheltered, peaceful beach well suited to a short off-lead walk. Access is via steps down from the clifftop car park near Tynemouth Priory, so it's worth bearing in mind if your dog struggles with steps. There are no facilities on the beach itself, but Tynemouth town is a short walk away with plenty of amenities, and the bay is also reachable on foot from Tynemouth Metro station.