Icecream

The ICECREAM gallery sits just inland from Whitley Bay's seafront, in a converted space that feels more like stumbling into someone's thoughtfully curated living room than a formal art venue. It's a contemporary art gallery that takes itself seriously without the stuffiness - the kind of place where you might spend twenty minutes or two hours depending on what's on.

The space showcases rotating exhibitions of work by emerging and established artists, with a real emphasis on accessibility. You won't need a PhD in art history to get something from a visit, though there's plenty of depth if you're the type to read every wall text. The gallery has a genuine community feel about it, hosting artist talks and smaller events throughout the year.

It's free to get in, which is refreshing, though they do ask for donations. Allow an hour or so for a proper look around, longer if you're naturally contemplative. Families with older kids will find it works well - younger children might get bored unless there's something particularly visual on.

If you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Whitley Bay Holiday Park or Old Hartley nearby, this makes a solid afternoon diversion, especially on one of those North East days when the beach is a bit grim. It breaks up the seaside routine nicely. The walk from the holiday parks takes about fifteen minutes, which is manageable without feeling like a trek. Worth checking their website before you visit to see what's on - quality does vary with exhibitions.