The best spots to watch the sunrise in the North East

Living on the East, one of the most magical natural (and free) experiences we can have in the region is to watch the sunrise.

And with spring sunrises starting to hit at around 6.30am (check your weather app for accurate timings and clear skies) now is the perfect time to rise early and start your day in the best way.

King Edward’s Bay, Tynemouth

Tynemouth, NE30 4EB 

Dog friendly: No

Just a short walk from Tynemouth Front Street, King Edward’s Bay is small, sandy and serves cracking sunrises on a clear day. With the backdrop of Tynemouth Priory and Castle, relax on the sand or, if you’re feeling really brave, have a dunk in the shallow bay to start your day feeling energised. N.B. dogs are banned on this beach so if you want to take your pooch along, head to Tynemouth Longsands (the next beach over).

Roker Beach, Sunderland

Roker, SR6 9NA 

Dog friendly: On certain parts 

Back in lockdown, our Instagram feed was filled with the most beautiful sunrises from this impressive beach in Sunderland. The long stretch of sand is dotted with colourful beach huts and sculptures that create a super-cute backdrop as the sun rises. A great place to combine your visit with a long walk. Dogs are allowed on certain stretches of the beach.

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Bamburgh, NE69 7BJ

Dog friendly: Yes

Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Northumberland coast, Bamburgh Castle provides the most impressive spot for a North East sunrise experience as the sun hits the castle in hues of gold. The expansive beach just adds to the magic – it’s so large you can easily find your own private spot to take in the views.

Whitley Bay Promenade, Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay, NE26 2RL

Dog friendly: Yes

A popular spot with dog walkers and also great for those with accessibility needs, Whitley Bay promenade stretches the length of St Mary’s Lighthouse to Tynemouth. With plenty of car parks along the way, it’s probably the easiest place to access and take in the sunrise. Park at St Mary’s lighthouse for tranquil views across the length of the bay, or head to the impressive backdrop of Spanish City to wander along the seafront.

South Shields Pier, South Shields

South Shields, NE33 2JX

Dog friendly: On certain parts

This well-photographed location has some of the most impressive sunrises in the North East as you watch it come up over the mouth of the River Tyne and out to the North Sea. The silhouette of the lighthouse, lapping waves and morning peace makes it the perfect romantic spot to start the day – we haven’t seen it ourselves but it’s top of our list to try next.

Roseberry Topping, North York Moors National Park

Middlesbrough, TS9 6QR 

Dog friendly: Yes, just make sure they are fit enough for the hike to the top 

This sunrise summit in the North York Moors National Park is one of adventurers. This distinctive hill, often referred to as the ‘Matterhorn of Cleveland’ provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Climbing to the summit before daybreak rewards hikers with a beautiful sunrise unfolding over the North York Moors.

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