Blyth

The coastal town of Blyth in Northumberland lies to the south of the River Blyth and developed from the Port of Blyth that dates from the 12^th century. The town we see now is primarily a result of growth during the 18^th century when coal mining and shipbuilding were prospering here. When the port was first built, it was based around the north side of the river but by the early 18^th century had new quays and houses built on the south side and by the 19^th century, a quarter of a million tons of coal was being shipped from Blyth. Salt too was an important trade here and at the beginning of the 18^th century the port saw the export of over 1,000 tons of salt each year. Although the products have changed, the port is still thriving today.

Blyth offers a broad choice of amenities, shops, eateries and pubs as well as historic sites and visitor attractions, including; the lovely Quayside that was once the place where coal was loaded from trains onto ships for export and is now a place where people stroll to enjoy the views and attractions along the riverfront. The Quayside has seen a lot of investment and boasts the notable sculpture the "Spirit of the Staithes" as well as ‘sound posts’ which play recorded stories about Blyth when you approach them. The vast stretch of beach has a backdrop of sand dunes that are a Local Nature Reserve and area of Special Nature Conservation Interest. The dunes are abundant with diverse flora, fauna, butterflies and birds. Ever-present and worth a visit is the "High Light" lighthouse, one of Blyth's oldest structures dating from 1788.

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