man with the donkey

This quirky gallery space in Whitley Bay trades in art that actually makes you stop and think, rather than walk past with a blank expression. The Man with the Donkey is an intimate venue showcasing contemporary work - the kind of place where you might stumble upon a local artist doing something genuinely interesting, not just repeating what's worked before.

It's a proper gallery in the truest sense: small enough to see everything in a single visit, but with enough character to feel like you've discovered something real rather than a corporate install. The work tends toward the experimental side, which means it won't be to everyone's taste, but that's rather the point. Families with teenagers who actually care about art will get more from this than anyone else, though art students and anyone curious about the North East's creative scene should absolutely make the detour.

Whitley Bay itself is a pleasant enough seaside town - the kind of place where you can grab a decent coffee and a walk along the beach without the chaos of bigger coastal attractions. If you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Whitley Bay Holiday Park just down the road, it's an easy morning or afternoon outing. Even Old Hartley Caravan Club, a few miles inland, is within a reasonable drive.

The main drawback: opening hours and admission details aren't readily available online, so ring ahead before making the trip. You don't want to drive out expecting to get in and find the doors locked.