South Shields is great, as is Tynemouth the other side of the river. The inner harbour area that is sheltered by the outer breakwaters is huge so good sailing can be had with any wind direction. Going north things get trickier. Newbiggin SC recently had a massive investment but I’ve heard stories that the club is going backwards in terms of numbers etc!. Amble only a few members. Alnmouth even smaller and not very practicle. Beadnell is great spot but getting into the SC and getting a space in their dinghy park may be impossible. No club at Holy Island plus difficult access over tidal causeway. Gets well rough around Holy Island sometimes. Another 10 miles north is Berwick upon Tweed SC (me). I used to do Holy Island and back in an hour when I had a formula 18 cat, not so quick in the Wayfarer mind. Then inland from Newcastle is Derwent Reservoir which is a great club with superb racing if that is what you want.