Dating along the Metro
Key facts
| Gateshead Quays | BALTIC, free, Wednesday to Sunday |
|---|---|
| Whitley Bay | Walk from the Metro to St Mary's |
| Seaburn or East Boldon | Nearest Metro for Souter |
| Before you go | Check tide times for St Mary's |
Living in different parts of Tyne and Wear is no reason not to meet. The Metro links the coast, the river and Sunderland. Here are three dates that start at a station.
Free art at BALTIC
BALTIC on Gateshead Quays is free and open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. It is a former flour mill, rebuilt inside around six main floors, with a rooftop restaurant on Level 6.
Source: BALTIC: Our history, checked 8 November 2026
St Mary's Lighthouse from Whitley Bay
Take the Metro to Whitley Bay and walk to Park Avenue, then on to the lighthouse. The causeway floods at high tide, so check the council's safe crossing times first. Outside May to October, the visitor centre opens mainly at weekends and holidays.
Source: North Tyneside Council: Safe crossing and visitor centre opening times, checked 8 November 2026
Souter and The Leas
Souter Lighthouse is a short trip from South Shields, East Boldon or Seaburn Metro, or on the E1 and E2 buses. The cafe is free to walk into, even on days when the lighthouse itself is closed.
Source: National Trust: Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Is the Metro handy for dating across Tyne and Wear?
Yes. It links Sunderland, South Shields, Gateshead and the North Tyneside coast, so it is easy to meet in the middle.
Is BALTIC free?
Yes. BALTIC has been free to visit since 2002. It is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.
Is St Mary's Lighthouse open in winter?
Outside May to October it opens mainly at weekends and holidays, around the tides. Check the council's crossing and opening times before you go.
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