Your Visit to South Shields

South Shields is the biggest and oldest town in South Tyneside and is a very busy seaside resort. Many visitors are attracted to the South Shields area due to the success of the Catherine Cookson books which are set in the area. From the local attractions to shopping and eating out there are many things to do in South Shields.

South Shields Attractions

From your holiday base in South Shields you will be ideally placed to visit many of the local visitor attractions. The local attractions include Arbeia Roman Fort, Temple Park Centre, South Shields Museum and Art gallery, Souter Lighthouse, Smugglers Cove, Ocean Beach Pleasure Park, Dunes Adventure Island, the Customs House, Bedes World and St Pauls and of course the local seafront parks set alongside the beaches. Please see our page on Arbeia Roman Fort.

Customs House, South Shields & the Tyne Ferry

The Customs House is a large cinema, theatre and art gallery in one place and if you are a lover of entertainment then this is the attraction for you. Ocean Beach Pleasure Park is a free to enter fair ground with over 50 rides and stalls to entertain you and your family. If you are feeling energetic then there are plenty of cycle hire firms in South Shields allowing you to hire a bike and go exploring the surrounding countryside. If you want a more peaceful experience then why not take the Tyne ferry for a pleasant trip across the Tyne to North Shields. From here you can visit Tyne Mouth and Whitley Bay. The Customs House and the ferry terminal are both a very pleasant 20 minute stroll from the Kingsmere Guest House, South Shields.

Shopping in South Shields

For those of you who wish to spend some quality time shopping then you can visit either South Shields Market for the local delicacies, the high street for all the branded shops or if you require some new outdoor wear you can visit the Barbour Factory outlet.

Eating Out in South Shields

If you are looking for somewhere to eat in South Shields then the town centre offers a wide variety of dining establishments from specialist restaurants to wine bars and brassieres. Ocean Road in South Shields is fames across the North of England for its collection of excellent curry houses. Ocean Road is a 3 minute walk from the Kingsmere Guest House, running parallel to Urfa Terrace.

Real Ale in Mill Dam, South Shields

If you are looking to have a good night out then there are plenty of pubs and clubs located in the town centre that can offer a great night out for those of all ages. Real beer enthusiasts may like to spend some time in the Mill Bank area. Here, close to the ferry terminal and the Customs House, you will find a collection of quaint pubs serving top class real ale. (Call into the Alum House and ask about the origin of its name... It is a reference to a business activity from bygone times).
The pubs of Mill Dam stand a 20 minute stroll from the Kingsmere Guest House. But I should allow at least 30 minutes for the return leg, and not just because its partly uphill....!

With the local towns and villages offering plenty of opportunity to get a feel for the local area you may also be interested in exploring the South Tyneside Heritage Trail or the Catherine Cookson Trail.

From your base in South Shields you will also be able to visit Newcastle cottage rentals in this area can provide an excellent holiday opportunity for young and old alike.