Oh I do like to be beside the seaside

I'm not generally one for warm weather...it plays havoc with my hair-dying regime and I find it easier to 'cut a dash' in the clothing stakes in colder weather, however, I'm lucky enough to live within walking distance of a beach and when the weather is as lovely as it has been recently its a crime not to take advantage of it.

On Sunday Monsieur P, our Jack Russell Rocky and I took a trip down the coast to Whitley Bay, which was once a very popular resort. Even in my childhood I remember visiting the now closed Spanish City fun fair with my Nan (I must tell you more about my Nan some time she was a fab lady). Sadly 'The Bay' is now fairly down-at-heel, having been neglected by tourists for years. Until recently it was mainly the scene for stag and hen parties and bank holiday drinking sessions (all of which have a time and a place but really don't do the place justice). However, the beach and seafront has seen some regeneration and its a lovely long sweeping walk from one end of the bay to the other.

Looking north up the beach (on the raised concrete area you can just make out where there used to be revolving chalets)

About half way down the promenade there is the famous Rendezvous Cafe, virtually unchanged since the resort's heyday.

They sell a darn fine sandwich and do lovely ice creams but we didn't go in this time because we had the bow wow with us.

We then walked to the end of the bay and had a look at the redevelopment of the dome that is all that remains of Spanish City (I believe it was called that because all the buildings were white??). Hopefully it can be restored to its former glory, it's a local icon. 

Whitley Bay is really worth a visit the beach is a proper 'bucket and spade' beach and there are some good independent shops in the town.

After our walk, we popped further down the coast to Tynemouth Market. Held in the victorian station, its one of my favourite places to visit on a weekend - there is something for everyone - bric-a-brac, crafts, clothes, food. A special mention has to go to Benny's Toon Macaroons and the very enthusiastic Benny! We feasted on lovely fresh hot chocolate chip macaroons and took more home for later! We also bought some nice fresh bread and cheese (which I have finished while Monsieur P is at work tonight...I will be in the bad books!!) 

Unfortunately my phone had run out of charge so I will have to visit again soon to take pictures (damn!)

Before leaving we bought a nice reproduction 70's phone (My attempts to by an original 50's one were vetoed!), and my dear husband treated me to a teacup and saucer and a handmade apron (is he hoping I will cook for him?!)

New phone! (My dress is also new from Oasis - one of my Prague outfits that didn't see the light of day!) I didn't realise how windswept I looked until I reviewed the photos!

 My new tea cup - full of my favourite blackberry and rhubarb tea - it's amazing! Try it!