South Shields
Golden sands meet the rocky coast at this quintessential seaside town, where you can enjoy all the fun of the fair
A stone’s throw from Littlehaven Beach (home to the striking Groyne Lighthouse and Juan Munoz’s magnificent statues, affectionately known as The Weebles), The Sea Hotel has 37 stylish rooms and views over South Marine Park – the family suites even have space for your four-legged friends. Or stay in Marsden’s iconic The Grotto, where the rooms have views right over the bay and rock.
Perfect Weekend
Try your luck at the amusements, and go wild on the hair-raising rides at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park. The waltzers will have you in a spin, you’ll get into the real spirit of summer on Miami surf and you’ll make a splash on the log flume. Then head to Scoop and Bean for a warming hot drink and an indulgent sweet treat as you get your breath back. Fancy a game? Put your putting skills to the test when you play mini-golf at Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf. When you’re ready for dinner, you’ll find what you’re looking for on Ocean Road – from award-winning Indian food at Zeera, to authentic Italian flavours at Da Vinci’s. Then sip a cocktail in Arbeia (Little Mix’s Jade Thirlwall’s hometown bar) as the sun sets. We love Gin Zombie in summer (gin, pineapple, lime, lemon, passionfruit, bitters and sugar). But what’s a trip to the seaside without the nation’s favourite delicacy? Head to Colmans Fish and Chips on Ocean Road and eat yours out of the packet while wandering along the seafront. Or, if you’d prefer a sit-down meal with sea views, head to their sister restaurant, Colmans Seafood Temple, where you can indulge in freshly-caught and responsibly- sourced seafood.
