South Shields
Introduction
You will find South Shields situated on the south bank of the River Tyne's mouth. This coastal port town in South Tyneside carries deep historical roots, having been known as Arbeia during Roman times and Caer Urfa during the Early Middle Ages.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by understanding the historical layers of this coastal area at the mouth of the River Tyne. You can explore a landscape shaped by Roman history, where a fort served as a supply base for positions along Hadrian's Wall, and later by its 19th-century transformation into a seaside resort featuring sandy beaches. While much of the area maintains an industrial character, you will find coastal scenery including cliffs and grassy headlands further south.
As you navigate the region, note the distinct character of the surrounding areas:
- The Port of Tyne docklands sit upriver between South Shields and Jarrow to handle North Sea freight.
- Jarrow holds historical significance as the site of a former monastery where the Venerable Bede lived, and it is known for its industrial shipbuilding history and the notable march of the unemployed in the 1930s.
- Hebburn and Boldon serve as industrial and residential areas to the west and south respectively.
Getting there
You can reach the area via several transport links, including rail, bus, and ferry routes that serve the nearby Newcastle upon Tyne. If you are traveling from Newcastle Airport, take the Green Line into the city centre before transferring to the Metro Yellow Line, which serves South Tyneside. For those arriving by sea, the Shields Ferry crosses the Tyne from North Shields to the south bank, accommodating both foot passengers and bicycles.
If you prefer to travel by road, follow the A19 toward Jarrow, where the route passes through the Tyne Tunnel to emerge at Howdon. Cyclists and pedestrians have access to their own dedicated tunnels alongside the main route. For those arriving from the north bank of the river, a shuttle bus connects the ferry pier to the North Shields town centre and Metro station.
Getting around
You can navigate local destinations within Fare Zone C using a single or day ticket on the Metro, which travels from Hebburn out to South Shields. For regional travel, several bus routes connect you to surrounding areas: the 20 and 50 run from Durham toward South Shields via different routes, while the 9 connects Sunderland to Boldon and Jarrow. Other local buses meander between Hebburn, Jarrow, and South Shields through industrial and housing estates.
If you prefer to travel by foot or bicycle, you can use the Tyne Tunnels located under the river from Jarrow. These tunnels are accessible via funicular lifts and original wooden escalators.
Where to stay
You can find a cluster of accommodation options along Ocean Road toward the seafront, including a simple chain hotel located right by the water. For a more welcoming atmosphere, you might choose a clean and comfortable guest house on Beach Road or a cheerful bed and breakfast on Westoe Road.
If you prefer established chains, several reliable options are available nearby:
- A budget-friendly chain with parking near the Port of Tyne.
- A convenient choice for motorists located in Boldon Business Park.
- Travelodge Whitemare Pool situated at a local road junction.
Food & drink
You can find a variety of dining options in the town centre near the Metro station and along Ocean Road toward the pier. These establishments include Colman's Seafood Temple, which offers views of the sea, as well as Mambo Wine & Dine, Tuscano's, Turkuisine, Orange Grass, Clover and Wolf, Bell Passi, Radhuni, Italianish, Pacino's, Kuzey, Zeera, and Sambuca. For a reliable pub experience, visit The Wouldhave, or head to Vespa Italian Bar & Steakhouse located off Leam Lane.
The area offers numerous pubs near the Metro station and Ocean Road, including Ziggy's, Red Door, Life of Riley, Hogarths, Kirkpatrick's, Arbeia Bar, and The Marine. For a unique experience, visit The Grotto, a pub situated in a cave blasted into the cliffs right on the beach. If you prefer craft beer, More than 2 Brew features an eccentric range of beers with unconventional names in their taproom.
What to see and do
Explore the coastal landscape of South Shields, where you can visit the Arbeia Roman Fort to see reconstructed barracks and a commander's quarters from a former supply base for Hadrian's Wall. Nearby, stroll through Marine Park, a green space featuring sandy beaches and a funfair located between the fort and the pier. You can also visit the South Shields Museum and Art Gallery to view local-themed works and artifacts related to author Catherine Cookson, or head to The Word at the ferry pier for exhibitions centered on the written word.
Travel further along the coast to see the distinct lighthouses of the region, including the stubby navigation light at the end of the South Shields pier and the historic Souter Lighthouse. If you prefer a more rural atmosphere, explore the breezy hills where Cleadon Windmill stands as a ruin in a nature reserve, or visit the reclaimed colliery land of Whitburn Coastal Park. In the village of Westoe, you can experience an attractive centre that served as a frequent setting for historical fiction.
- Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
- Customs House cinema and theatre
- Souter Lighthouse
- Whitburn Windmill
- Bents Park
Three days in South Shields
Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the coastal atmosphere of South Shields. You can take in the views along the River Tyne and experience the maritime character of the Port area.
Day two, you can travel toward the historic sites of Arbeia to see where Roman history meets the landscape. You can also explore the surroundings of Caer Urfa from the Early Middle Ages.
Day three, you can head toward the North Sea coast or visit nearby Hebburn and Boldon. You can navigate the local area via the Tyne Tunnel or use the Metro to reach neighboring locations like Jarrow or Newcastle.