Whitley Bay Baptist Church

The red brick facade of Whitley Bay Baptist Church sits quietly on the edge of this seaside town, built in 1897 when the place was still finding its feet as a Victorian resort. It's a proper example of late 19th-century nonconformist architecture - all red sandstone and period detail, the sort of building that tells you something about who lived here and what they valued.

Inside, it's worth a look if you're into the earnest solidity of chapel interiors. High ceiling, decent stained glass, and that particular smell of old wood and older prayers that you either find moving or don't. Most visitors to Whitley Bay walk straight past it heading for the beach or the Spanish City, so you won't be fighting crowds.

Really, this is one for the architecture-minded rather than a must-do with restless kids. Twenty minutes maximum, unless you catch a service and fancy staying for the full experience. The staff are welcoming if you do call ahead to check visiting times.

If you're based at Old Hartley Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite just up the coast, it's an easy detour on the way into town proper. Worth combining with a walk along the promenade or a look at the pier, but don't rearrange your day around it. Whitley Bay's real draw is the seaside itself.