The Globe Gallery

The Globe Gallery sits right in Whitley Bay, a straightforward contemporary art space that doesn't pretend to be anything grander than it is. Inside you'll find rotating exhibitions - mostly local and emerging artists, with a mix of painting, sculpture, and installation work that tends toward the experimental rather than safe. It's the sort of place where you might stumble on something genuinely arresting, or walk through in twenty minutes feeling a bit underwhelmed. That's the honest truth of small regional galleries.

It works best for people who actually care about art rather than ticking off attractions. If you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Whitley Bay Holiday Park or Old Hartley Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite nearby, it's worth a look before or after a walk along the coast - Whitley Bay beach is right there. Children will get bored within half an hour unless there's a particularly interactive exhibition on. Admission is free, which at least means no regret if you pop in and leave quickly.

The real appeal is its position in a seaside town that's genuinely trying to do something cultural. Pair it with the promenade, a coffee somewhere decent, and you've got a decent couple of hours. But if you're after guaranteed entertainment or major artworks, you'd be better served heading into Newcastle proper. This is local and honest rather than unmissable.