Oh, I do like to shop beside this seaside!
Have you spotted the #ourwhitleybay campaign on social media recently? I'd seen a few familiar faces holding the iconic lightbox, or liking, commenting and sharing the posts, but I hadn't paid a lot of attention. The last time we'd been to the North Tyneside seaside town, I hadn't seen much to entice me back particularly quickly. But then, we ordered a cake!
I'd seen the works of art created by Pauline from Pure Knead for several months via their Facebook page. Even though I would normally pass up a slice of cake for a bowl of chips and dips, these cakes looked so enticing, I was increasingly tempted. When our church home group leader organised a bring-and-share lunch on the weekend of our business' first anniversary, we decided it was a good opportunity to celebrate and treat ourselves, so we got in touch to place our order.
Pure Knead: Cakes and Artisan Bread
When we went to pick up our orange and pistachio cake in Talbot Jones branded colours from the Whitley Bay premises, I decided to keep my eyes peeled to see if #ourwhitleybay was really something worth shouting about—it really was!
The PureKnead shop is stylish and charming, full of decadent and beautiful treats. The cakes and artisan bread are intricately and lovingly made—and all yours for a very reasonable price.
A couple of units down is the quirky and eclectic Vintage Powder Room and Tea Shop. Treating yourself to Elevenses or Afternoon Tea there is like settling down in your granny's front room—if your granny happens to be very on-trend, with impressive attention to detail, a lot of class, and great baking skills.
Cafés and Small Treats
We'd promised the children chocolate cake, so we continued our hunt across the road at 192 Coffee Shop, a really warm and welcoming café that was bustling and inviting. The children were delighted to be presented with special curly straws to keep. Little touches like that can turn a 'necessity break' into a happy and cherished memory.
The variety and quality of independent shops along Park View really piqued my interest, so I decided to take a day off and come back for an explore.
Exploring Whitley Bay Shops
My first stop on the grey Wednesday morning was Olives at the Station, where I enjoyed a delicious Chai Latte and the company of two local businesswomen, Lee Casey and Julie Summers. Their enthusiasm and passion for their hometown was infectious, and it was encouraging to hear about the developments in Whitley Bay.
With a £36 million regeneration project happening at the seafront, including the restoration of the iconic Spanish City, things are looking up for this town. Research in September 2015 revealed that Whitley Bay was the most improved shopping centre in the country, with a 12.5% drop in vacancy rates over the last 5 years.
Gift Shops and Independent Businesses
On my stroll, I visited Meander, a lovely gift shop with striking jewellery, candles, and beauty products by local company Alkamy. Business owner Sandra was very warm, helpful, and friendly.
Next door is Ringarosie Yarns, with riotous colours and inviting textures. If you or someone you know loves knitting, this is well worth a visit.
On Park View, HaimieDog caught my attention with casual menswear. I picked up a quirky dinosaur jumper for my husband for under £10—a real bargain.
At Elsee Crafts, I met the artist behind the store’s creations, with cards, pictures, and notebooks themed around the North East and seaside. Perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Escape Boutique offered a beautiful selection of clothes. I even found a designer dress reduced by 70% in the sale—perfect for adding to my wardrobe.
Lunch and Inspiration
Before heading back, I stopped at Pulp Fiction Future Foods, a health food café with lots of soul-food options, smoothies, and juices. The vibrant décor and menu were perfect for brightening a grey day.
I went home tired but happy, encouraged by the passion and energy of the business owners I met. If you have any doubt about the value of shopping in independent shops, check out our 6 Reasons to Shop Local and 6 Ways to Support Small Businesses blogs.
The residents of Whitley Bay are working hard to make their town a destination to visit and enjoy. The great news is—it’s working! This weekend, consider heading to Whitley Bay instead of the big shopping centres. You'll find hand-picked ranges, friendly people, products made with passion, and you'll be supporting your community.
#OurWhitleyBay. Let’s enjoy it!
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