South Shields is on the north east coast of Britain at the mouth of the River Tyne, on the south bank. It boasts a scenic harbour; a couple of gorgeous beaches, Littlehaven to the north and Sandhaven to the south; two beautiful parks; a funfair and amusement arcades; a genuine Roman Fort with reconstructed gateway; a museum dedicated to authoress Catherine Cookson; restaurants and cafés ; shops; and a charming old market square. Why not take a cruise on the River Tyne? Or have a trip into Newcastle just 7 miles away? It's easy to get to the city centre (known locally as The Toon), by Metro!
For a location map of the Sea Crest Guesthouse, click here.
Attractions...
The Marine Parks
Both Marine Parks were built in 1890 and although some things have changed over the years, they retain their original Victorian charm and elegance with their neatly arranged flowerbeds and lush grassed areas.
North Marine Park
Approx walking time: 1 minute (located adjasent to Seacrest Guest House)
The North Marine Park has a childrens play area, putting green, and outdoor bowling greens.
South Marine Park
Approx walking time: 2-3 minutes walk
The South Marine Park has a boating lake, minature railway, childrens play area and paddling pool.
Fairground
Approx walking time: 10 minutes walk.
Fantastic fairground with lots of rides - great for the whole family!
The Harbour and Groyne
Approx walking time: 10 - 15 minutes walk.
It took 41 years to construct both the North and South piers. Work began on June 15th 1854 but was not completed until 1909 because of a series of setbacks.
The Catherine Cookson Museum and Festival
Approx walking time: 10 minutes walk.
The Catherine Cookson Museum (in Ocean Road) is conveniently located in the town centre. Catherine Cookson was born in the Tyne Dock area of South Shields in June 1906. From humble beginnings she became a world famous authoress, writing nearly a hundred books about life in and around Tyneside. Click below to view the website
Every year, there is a festival - The Cookson Festival - between June and August. It begins with a parade through the town centre, which preceeds 6 weeks of free entertainment on the Sea Front. Great for kids and adults alike! Past entertainers have included: Rolf Harris, Suzi Quatro, The Hollies, Leo Sayer and many many more...!
The Arbeia Roman Fort
Approx walking time: 10 minutes walk.
The Roman Fort (Arbeia), founded in the early 4th century, in South Shields, is on the 'Lawe Top'. South Shields shares it's Roman history with Newcastle and Wallsend.
Shields Ferry
Approx walking time: 15-20 minutes walk.
Why not take a trip on the River Tyne? The Shields Ferry runs a regular service between North and South Shields. It also does Rivedr Cruises and is available for private hire.
Out of South Shields...
Souter Point Lighthouse, Whitburn
Approximately 3 miles along the coast, to the South. Advised to go by transport.
On the way to the lighthouse you pass the cliffs at Marsden which is large natural bird sanctuary. You'll see thousands of seabirds on the cliffs and on the famous Marsden Rock.Souter was built in 1871. It now belongs to the National Trust and is open to the public as a museum. It's open to the public every year from about mid-March until early November.
Bedesworld, Jarrow
Approximately 3 miles along the the river, to the West
Approx walking time: advised to go by some means of transport. Suggestion: by Metro.
Bede's World is just outside of South Shields in the little town of Jarrow. The Venerable Bede lived and worked at the monastary in Jarrow 1300 years ago. The Bede's World Museum lets visitors have a taste of the life and times of Bede and his fellow monks.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Approximately 5 miles along the River Tyne, to the West of South Shields. It is very easy to travel to by the Metro.
Newcastle is a hive of big name shops, restaurants, theatres, museums and is home to Newcstle United Football Club, and the world famous Tyne Bridge and Milennium 'Blinking Eye' Bridge. There is literally something for everyone -young and old!
Useful links:
South Shields Tourist Information
Website Website Website Website
Design
by: Anita Thomas