Central Arcade

It didn't take long to pack our bag this morning, and straight after breakfast at the hotel we headed into Newcastle for a wander round the city. We looked round Grainger Market, did some window shopping (though I succumbed and bought a blouse), had coffee (but somehow resisted tempting pastries), and walked through the splendid Central Arcade. In to Windows, the music shop while we were there, where MrM had a look at the guitars...

Then back to the van and a drive out to Tynemouth, where we'd intended to walk on the pier, but it was shut for maintenance work. So we watched a tug boat coming in (extra) before walking up the main street. Coffee and 'artisan' donuts were consumed, and a hanging basket planter purchased before the next stage of our journey - up to Cullercoats to visit our friends Rena and Frank. Very good to see them again, and to look round their lovely new(ish) house, and meet Barney, their newly adopted cat. Frank drove us all to Whitley Bay where, after a meal  at Spanish City, we all went to a gig at the Playhouse (the main purpose of our trip!). Not so keen on the support act, but Big Big Train were absolutely brilliant! We needn't have had misgivings about the new line up - they're different, but every bit as good as last time we saw them. 

Unfortunately, MrM and I had to return home straight after the gig, as MrM has to work tomorrow. In bed just after 2.00am.