Description
A sheltered cove with shrubby cover offering migrating birds a safe place when caught by bad weather while flying over the North Sea, Tynemouth Haven has an impressive list of rarities, including Blåhals, Nonnestenpikker, Schwarz´ Løvsanger, Brun Løvsanger, Lundsanger, Drosselrørsanger, and many more. The cliffs on the adjacent Priory hold a substantial colony of Ride and a smaller number of Mallemuk, and have one or two wintering Husrødstjert in most years. The mostly stony beaches are good for Stenvender and Sortgrå Ryle, as well as resident breeding Skærpiber and an occasional Knortegås in autumn. In late summer, a large post-breeding tern roost gathers to feed where the River Tyne flows into the sea; it often includes a number of Rosenternes, and also attracts Almindelig Kjoves which chase the terns to make them drop their food. The large flocks of gulls (mostly Sølvmåge) gathering here are also worth checking, with regular Gråmåge and Hvidvinget Måge in the winter.
Details
Access
Very easily accessible by public transport (bus 306 from Newcastle; also Tynemouth Metro rail station just 10 minutes walk away) as well as cycle or car. The hilly nature of the site makes wheelchair use difficult, though not impossible; it is easy for battery-powered wheelchairs, as the paving is good quality.
The site can also be seen from arriving and departing DFDS ferries on the Newcastle – Amsterdam route, with the seabirds at least viewable from the ferry.
Terrain and Habitat
River , Sea , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Valley , Beach , Park , City/villageConditions
Hilly , Rocky , Dry , Open landscape , SandyCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migration , Autumn migrationRoute
Paved road , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , Car , Wheelchair , BoatBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Note that following severe storm damage in November 2021 (Storm Arwen), the North Pier is currently closed; due to the extent of the damage, this is expected to stay so for several years.


