English Heritage

A natural stronghold with all-round sea views, Tynemouth Priory and Castle’s steep-sided headland commands the entrance to the river Tyne.  

You enter Tynemouth Priory through the 14th-century monastic gatehouse, a powerful miniature castle.  

Explore the headland with the help of interactive displays featuring characters from Tynemouth’s long history. Listen to the voice of a Second World War gunner describing air raids, sinking ships and primitive living conditions. 

The ruins of the great medieval monastic church rise amid intriguing tombstones of Tynemouth mariners. Look out for the priory’s greatest treasure, the tiny 15th-century ‘Percy Chantry’ chapel, with a beautiful rose window and a vaulted roof crowded with carved saints.

Venture down into the underground gun batteries to explore life here during the two World Wars.