Things To Do
in North Shields
North Shields is a historic coastal town at the mouth of the River Tyne in Tyne and Wear, England. It blends a working harbour, riverside walks, and a bustling town center with a strong maritime heritage. The Fish Quay area provides seafood markets, eateries, and colorful boats along the quay.
With easy access to nearby Tynemouth, Whitley Bay, and Newcastle, it makes a convenient base for coastal exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your North Shields adventure with a stroll along the stunning Tynemouth Longsands, where the golden sands meet refreshing waves. Breathe in the salty sea air as you watch the surfers catching waves or enjoy a coffee at a beachside cafe. Don’t forget to explore the historical Tynemouth Priory and Castle perched on the cliffs with panoramic views of the coastline.
After indulging in a seaside lunch at one of the many seaside fish and chip shops, head over to the bustling Tynemouth Market. Here, you can discover local crafts, antiques, and delicious homemade foods. Spend some time wandering through the market's eclectic stalls and chatting with friendly vendors before taking a leisurely walk along the pier.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Tyne, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside paths, soaking in the romantic ambiance as the city lights reflect on the water. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local pub for some live music and a pint of the regional ale.
Start your day with a visit to the locally renowned Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum, where you can delve deep into the fascinating history of Roman Britain. Explore the site’s reconstructed fort and learn about the significant role this area played during Roman times. The museum's interactive displays make it a captivating experience for all ages.
After lunch, make your way to the nearby Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead, where you can immerse yourself in a variety of modern art exhibitions. Don’t miss taking a moment to enjoy the stunning views from the viewing terrace overlooking the River Tyne and the iconic bridges. Spend time at the centre’s cafe, sipping on a refreshment while you reflect on the artworks.
For dinner, head back to North Shields and experience the vibrant atmosphere at one of the many restaurants offering international cuisines. Post-dinner, delve into the local nightlife by checking out a live music venue or a cozy pub to unwind and enjoy the lively local scene. Connecting with locals in a warm setting will make your evening memorable.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid range cafe | $15-25 |
| 🛒Basic groceries | $5-12 |
| 🚆One way public transit ticket | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal location with easy access to Newcastle and the North East coast
- Rich maritime heritage and seafood oriented cuisine
- Walkable quay area and scenic riverside views
- Affordable lodging compared to central city hotels
- Weather can be showery and windy, even in summer
- Nightlife is quieter than in nearby Newcastle
- Some attractions require travel to neighboring towns
- Parking can be challenging during busy periods
Places to Visit in North Shields
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, working boats, and seafood stalls along the quay provide dynamic harbor photography with a maritime vibe at different times of day.
A historic lighthouse building with harbour backdrops for architectural and atmospheric shots.
Riverside paths offer viewpoints across the Tyne with cranes, bridges, and city silhouettes especially at sunset.
Coastal views and rocky shoreline scenes with the lighthouse as a focal point when accessible.
Art deco seaside architecture and expansive sea views along the north east coast.
Food in North Shields
North Shields Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic seaside staple featuring freshly caught white fish, chips, mushy peas, and a side of tartar sauce.
Must-Try!
A traditional North East sandwich using pease pudding on a soft stottie loaf, commonly enjoyed in pubs and bakeries.
Smoked kippers served with crusty bread, a regional breakfast option near the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets and stalls selling fresh seafood, other locally produced items, and street snacks along the quay.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently, greet with a friendly hello, and mind local quiet residential areas in early mornings or late evenings.
Locals are friendly and talkative; a polite and relaxed attitude goes a long way.
Respect signs at the coast and be mindful of tides when near the water and on beaches.
Safety
Tipping in North Shields
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-15 percent is common if service is not included. At casual spots, rounding up is appreciated but optional.
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used in some small venues. Mobile pay options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay are commonly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and mild to warm temperatures; expect breezes from the sea. Great for outdoor walks, harbour photography, and beach visits; pack a light waterproof layer for occasional showers.
Cooler days with variable weather and occasional storms; skies can be dramatic for photography. Layers and a waterproof jacket are advised.
Generally cool and windy with shorter days; some outdoor spots feel brisk but the coast is still striking. Seek indoor attractions like museums or cafes between short trips outside.
Milder weather, blooming coastal flora, and migrating birds along the estuary. It is a good time for long coastal walks and quiet photography spots.
North Shields at Night
Hiking in North Shields
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal walking route along the North East coast with sea views, headlands, and beaches.
Rolling hills and woodland walks a short drive away offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Accessible sections along the broader Northumberland coast for day hikes and dramatic coastal scenery.
Airports
How to reach North Shields by plane.
Main regional airport about 10-15 miles from North Shields with frequent flights across the UK and Europe and easy access by road or Metro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around North Shields with a mix of coastal and suburban housing.
Commuters and locals who work in nearby Newcastle and surrounding towns.
Students from regional colleges and universities contribute to a youthful demographic in the area.
A portion of long term residents who enjoy harbor views and coastal amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the region with local clubs and view friendly matches in nearby Newcastle and surrounding towns.
Rugby union and rugby league have a presence in local clubs and regional competitions.
Seasonal fixtures in local grounds during spring and summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Shields.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, mushroom dishes, and salads. Ask to substitute meat based broths or stocks if needed.