South Shields out & about
South Shields is a lovely seaside town with fun filled activities for all the family. The coastal paths are stunning and the beaches are very popular throughout the entire year. The Leas (coastal green belt) and cliff tops are amazing and, if you are feeling fit and active, a walk right along the coast from the pier at South Shields to the pier near Roker is well worth the effort. En route you will come across numerous little restaurants, ice cream parlours, coffee shops and very interesting places to recharge your batteries!
The Marsden Grotto, which is now a hotel and restaurant is a fascinating place. The building holds much history, intrigue and mystery. It dates back to 1782 when a local lad decided to blast a huge hole in Marsden Cliffs and create a rent free home for himself and his family! He was very soon involved in the ‘smuggling’ business and became rather notorious! However, the Grotto became a very popular inn once he disappeared and is a superb location to enjoy a bite to eat whilst watching the beautiful sea birds and stunning sea views.
Just a little further along the coast is Souter Lighthouse. This is now owned by The National Trust and the coastal path from there leads directly onto Whitburn Coastal Park which is a must for a bird enthusiast with it’s viewing screens and wetland habitats. After a pleasant and relaxing walk, enjoy the Souter Lighthouse café and shop which offers beautiful coastal themed gifts.
The beach front at South Shields offers something for everyone and, there are things to keep everyone occupied even during the winter months. The town is currently undergoing a huge re-generation project so there is a lot going on. The beach front is almost finished and the Marine Parks are going to be stunning – restoration work is almost complete on the South Marine Park and we look forward to seeing it back to it’s grand Victorian glory. New ironwork, and stonework have been implemented along with very strategic planting. The lake attracts beautiful birds and it is possible to hire a small rowing boat or, travel around the circumference of the park on the miniature steam train during the summer months.
Music and entertainment events run throughout the summer – mostly held in the Bents Park area of the town. They are very popular indeed and attract high profile musicians, pop stars and entertainers. Live music can be heard at some of the pubs and restaurants along the sea front.
There is a regular ferry crossing for the River Tyne. This takes you over to North Shields and it is an amazing walk from North Shields ferry landing along the riverside towards North Shields Fish Quay. From there, it is possible to walk towards Tynemouth and Cullercoats and the views are amazing.