Master Mariners Homes

A row of Grade II listed cottages just inland from Whitley Bay's seafront, the Master Mariners Homes date back to 1797 and were built as retirement lodgings for retired ship captains and their wives. It's the sort of place you walk past and think "that's rather nice" before actually stopping to read the plaque and realising there's proper maritime history tucked into these humble stone terraces.

The homes themselves are private residences now, so you can't go inside, but that's not really the point. The appeal is architectural and historical - seeing how these sea-faring men chose to spend their final years in something modest rather than grand. The cottages sit peacefully on a tree-lined street, a world away from the bustling promenade just a short walk downhill.

This works best as a stop during a wider coastal wander rather than a destination in itself. Maybe combine it with the beach at Whitley Bay or the Spanish City amusements, or take the clifftop walk towards Cullercoats. If you're staying at Old Hartley Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite - just over four miles south - it's a decent excuse for an afternoon drive and a potter about.

History buffs will find it satisfying; kids will likely find it dull. Free to view, no time needed beyond five minutes unless you're that sort of person who researches every inscription. Go when the weather's decent and you can enjoy the walk around the area properly.