South Shields

South Shields is a popular coastal town on the South bank of the River Tyne. Beautiful beaches, twisting cliff top paths, exhilarating amusements and miles of natural beauty make it a delight to explore all year round.

Journey back to Roman times at Arbeia Roman Fort, learn about Anglo-Saxon history at Bede's World, visit a keeper's cottage at Souter Lighthouse or simply explore beautiful sandy beaches and enjoy traditional seaside fun.

The long sweep of Sandhaven, with its backdrop of dunes, is one of the finest beaches in the UK, while Littlehaven beach has panoramic views of the harbour and the ruins of Tynemouth Priory across the mouth of the Tyne. It is an ideal spot for sailing, windsurfing and angling.

All the fun of the fair can be enjoyed at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park where there is an exciting choice of white-knuckle thrillers as well as colourful and imaginative rides for younger children.

Away from the bustle of the funfair, the seafront parks are the perfect spot for a gentle walk. South Marine Park with its boating lake, miniature steam railway, play area, paddling pool and amazing gathering of swans and ducks is great for families. Nearby North Marine Park is the perfect setting for pitch and putt, watching a game of bowls or enjoying a stroll and taking in the great views.

Over time, the mighty waves of the great North Sea have carved out caves, cliffs and stacks, leaving breathtaking Marsden Bay dominated by one of the most magnificent rock formations in Britain. The area is home to thousands of kittiwakes, gulls and cormorants and nearby The Leas, a two mile grassy sweep, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

The area boasts a long and proud maritime heritage. South Shields was the home of the nation's first purpose-designed lifeboat and one of the original vessels, Tyne, is beautifully preserved at the Wouldhave memorial. Her crews saved 1,028 stricken mariners in the 19th century.

Another first for South Shields coast is Souter Lighthouse. When it was switched on in 1871, it was the first in the world specifically constructed for electric illumination by carbon arc lamps. Today, in this National Trust property, you can explore the Engine Room, the keeper's cottage and enjoy outstanding views from the top of the tower.