By the 1950’s Whitley Bay was well established as the “Jewel in the Crown” of the North’s seaside resorts. The old hamlet had been transformed by the landowners and developers into a major resort.
The Dream Village by the Sea suitable for a few gentlemen was no more as the mass influx of tourists demanded a share in this great town By-The-Sea.
The beaches, facilities and entertainment suited the tourist of the 50’s. It was a Mecca of Pleasure and Gaiety, with a truly carnival atmosphere. The Scots came in their droves, GlasgowFairs Week being the high point of the season.
The 1950’s holiday centred on the clean golden sands, donkey rides, sandcastles, Punch and Judy and the Shuggy Boats. Young and old would bathe in the clear blue waters of the North Sea or the paddling pool at the bottom of Percy Road and Rockcliffe.
The Spanish City, the local funfair known as“ The Playground of the North” offered all the most modern Rides and Devices of the day. The Virginia Reel and the Figure 8 Railway dominated the fairground in the 1950’s. The fun of the fair was unlimited, excitement, thrills, fun and laughter. A world of music, swings, switchbacks and racers -candy-floss and ice cream .The 50’s tourist had it all in Whitley Bay.
The Links, a carpet of springy green turf and the beautifully kept gardens all along the seafront added much to the charm of this seaside town. The dancing and cinemas were a popular form of entertainment. The Empress Ballroom was the largest and most luxurious in the North with its top notch bands during the holiday season and perfectly surfaced floors.
“Fully Booked “was the cry from the Whitley Bay Hoteliers, rooms had to be reserved six months in advance.
Bring Back the “Good Old Days”
