South Shields is a coastal town in Tyne and Wear, England, situated on the banks of the River Tyne. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and offers a variety of attractions, activities, and beautiful scenery.
1. Beaches: South Shields boasts stunning beaches, including Sandhaven Beach and Marsden Bay. These sandy stretches are perfect for sunbathing, picnics, and enjoying the sea. You can hire surf boards and paddle boards to explore the beautiful award winning coastline from a different perspective.
2. South Marine Park: This Victorian park provides a peaceful escape with landscaped gardens, a boating lake, play areas, and a miniature steam train. The park is ideal for leisurely walks, family outings, and relaxation.
3. Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum: Immerse yourself in South Shields' Roman history at this reconstructed fort and museum. Discover the remains of the original Roman military supply base, explore the interactive museum exhibits, and learn about the Roman way of life.
4. The Customs House: A cultural hub, The Customs House offers a range of entertainment options, including theater productions, live music, comedy shows, and exhibitions. It also houses a cinema and a restaurant.
5. The Word, National Centre for the Written Word: This modern library and cultural space is a great place to explore literature, technology, and art. It features a range of exhibitions, workshops, and events for all ages.
6. South Shields Museum and Art Gallery: Learn about the town's history, from its maritime heritage to its unique local art collections. The museum offers fascinating exhibits showcasing the past and present of South Shields.
7. Souter Lighthouse: Located just outside South Shields, Souter Lighthouse is worth a visit. The first lighthouse in the world designed and built specifically to use electricity, it provides panoramic views of the coastline and offers guided tours.
8. Marsden Grotto: Situated in a cave on the coast, the Marsden Grotto is a unique pub and restaurant. Enjoy stunning views, delicious food, and a fascinating underground setting with its own quirky history.
9. Marsden Rock: This iconic landmark is a must-see in South Shields. It is a limestone rock formation standing tall out of the sea, and it's home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. You can admire the rock from a distance or take a coastal walk to get closer to this natural wonder and explore the rockpools with the kids looking for sea creatures.
10. Seafront Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, Enjoy fresh sea air, scenic views, and easy access to various cafes, shops, and attractions.
11. South Shields pier: Take a stroll along the South Shields Pier, which stretches out a mile into the North Sea. The views from the pier are breathtaking, and it's a great spot to watch the sunset over Tynemouth Priory and You might even spot some dolphins swimming in the sea if you're lucky!.
12. Great North Run: If you visit South Shields in September, you may catch the iconic Great North Run, the world's biggest half marathon. Spectate or join the thousands of runners in this renowned event that starts in Newcastle and finishes in South Shields.
13. South Shields market: South Shields Market is a vibrant outdoor market, the market has been operating for over 150 years and offers a wide range of products and services. the market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere and the opportunity to support local businesses. There are also several cafes and eateries nearby, allowing visitors to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee while exploring the market.
14. Ocean Road: If you're looking for a vibrant and diverse dining experience, head to Ocean Road. This bustling street is known for its numerous Indian, Turkish, Italian and traditional British restaurants, offering delicious and authentic cuisine. Explore the flavors of the world.
15. The Herd Groyne Lighthouse: The Groyne Lighthouse was constructed in 1882 and stands 27 meters tall, it is an iconic landmark in South Shields and is often featured in photographs and artwork depicting the area. It still serves as a vital navigational aid for ships entering and leaving the River Tyne, guiding them safely through the treacherous waters.
16. Ocean Beach Pleasure Park: Enjoy a fun-filled day at this amusement park, which has a wide range of rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to traditional fairground games, there's something for everyone.
One of the highlights of visiting South Shields is interacting with the friendly locals known proudly as "sanddancers", The town has a warm and welcoming community, and you can find people engaging in various activities along the coastline or in the town's parks.
Additionally, South Shields hosts various festivals, events, and markets throughout the year, offering an array of entertainment options, including food and drink festivals, fireworks displays, and traditional celebrations.