Things to do in South Shields

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Ian Hall
Photo by Ian Hall
Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Dr Klaus
Photo by Dr Klaus
Photo by Mike Campbell
Photo by Mike Campbell
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What to do in South Shields

Popular places to visit

St. James\' Park

St. James' Park

4/5(173 reviews)

Attend an intense soccer game at one of the United Kingdom’s largest and oldest stadiums. See it perched on a hill in the city center.

St. James' Park
Quayside showing modern architecture, a river or creek and a bridge

Quayside

4.5/5(504 reviews)

Cross a futuristic tilting bridge, peruse artistic centers and relax with a drink in this modern part of the city.

Quayside
Northumbria University

Northumbria University

4/5(54 reviews)

The gleaming silver campus in central Newcastle is one of the U.K.’s newest universities. Its students have voted the city the country’s best for students.

Northumbria University
Sage Gateshead featuring a city and modern architecture

The Glasshouse

4.5/5(130 reviews)

This riverside concert hall of futuristic design is among Europe’s leading venues. Enjoy its spectacular acoustics, divine auditoriums and international acts.

The Glasshouse
Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal showing interior views and theatre scenes

Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Enjoy artisanal ice cream between acts at a show in the stylish setting of one of England’s most glamorous and acclaimed theaters.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal
Castle Keep featuring a city and heritage architecture

Castle Keep

4.5/5(84 reviews)

Visit the tower from which the city takes its name to hear wicked tales of frightening ghouls and life in the dungeon.

Castle Keep
Angel of the North showing outdoor art and a monument

Angel of the North

4.5/5(108 reviews)

Look up at one of England’s most iconic sculptures welcoming you to the northern part of the country with a warm embrace.

Angel of the North
Gateshead Millennium Bridge featuring modern architecture, a bridge and a city

Gateshead Millennium Bridge

4.5/5(402 reviews)

Marvel at the impressive architectural feat of the tilting of this curved bridge and its tall arch allowing boats to pass.

Gateshead Millennium Bridge
Chinatown which includes street scenes as well as a large group of people

Chinatown

4/5(50 reviews)

A collection of Asian restaurants and supermarkets create an interesting cultural district in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Town area.

Chinatown

Areas of South Shields

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Westoe

4.5/5(10 area reviews)

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in Westoe and you might want to plan a stop by Ocean Beach Pleasure Park and The Marsden Grotto while you're in the area.

Westoe
Photo "Boldon Colliery" by Chris Heaton (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Chris Heaton (CC BY-SA)

Boldon Colliery

Photo by simon thomas

Wallsend

Sunderland

Sunderland

Newcastle-upon-Tyne showing a city, a sunset and modern architecture

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Frequently asked questions

Is South Shields worth visiting?
Renowned for its nature and history, finding awesome things to do in South Shields is a cinch. Make sure to add Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in South Shields?
Once you've visited major attractions like Castle Keep and Chinatown, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food options in South Shields.
What is the top tourist attraction in South Shields?
You can't leave without visiting Newcastle-upon-Tyne Theatre Royal, ranked the top tourist attraction in South Shields.
Is three days enough to stay in South Shields?
Three days will give you enough time to check out some popular city sights, including Wet 'n' Wild Water Park, Tynemouth Castle and Longsands Beach. The average stay in South Shields is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Newcastle-upon-Tyne isn't far away.
Is South Shields a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city centre, South Shields is a good place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Wet 'n' Wild Water Park and Tynemouth Castle. Then take a stroll through Tynemouth, located 2 kilometres from the centre, and Westoe, which is roughly 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in South Shields with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all the family, take a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in South Shields with kids.

What to do in South Shields for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in South Shields, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Utilita Arena Newcastle or The Marsden Grotto.
Are there free things to do in South Shields?
In South Shields, Longsands Beach is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in South Shields.