What You'll Want to Do in South Shields
Two parks, historic landmarks, fabulous food and fun for all the family - what more could you want by the coast? South Shields has it all
Those seeking Insta-worthy photos will want to start at Littlehaven Beach where there are plenty of sculptures to see, including The Weebles - Juan Muñoz's Conversation Piece featuring 22 strange sculptures, named after the popular 1970s toy. Pack a picnic and take your pick from North and South Marine Park or Bents Park (where Jason Donovan and Boyzlife will be performing this summer) just a stone's throw from the sand. Spend your 2ps in The Dunes and Oasis amusements, enjoy a laser tag battle at Laserforce, or take to the water with South Shields Surf School - there really is something for all the family to enjoy. Don't miss Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf (the only pirate-themed 12-hole course in the region). It's always worth venturing a little further along to Marsden Bay, home of the iconic Marsden Rock, where you can explore the hidden caves before paying a visit to Souter Lighthouse.
Read More: What to Do Near the Coast When it's Raining
Base Camp
The Sea Hotel, overlooking South Marine Park, has 34 elegant ensuite rooms and a good choice of food and drink in their restaurant, Buddha Lounge, steakhouse and Bar 52. If you’re looking for a boutique bed and breakfast, The Clifton is the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy breakfast in The Clifton Coffeeshop, or enjoy summer sipping in the sun on the terrace. For something a little different, and to be as close as possible to the beach, look no further than Sandhaven Chalets on South Shields’ award-winning Sandhaven Beach. Each of the 12 self-catering units offer a comfortable stay in a perfect home from home.
Perfect Weekend
Ocean Beach Pleasure Park is the place to be for family fun with rides, games and sweet treats galore. Scoop & Bean is a must-visit while you’re there, with good coffee, even better ice cream and decadent brownies and cakes. The home of ice cream is of course Minchella & Co – find their first ice cream parlour on Ocean Road and Toney Minchella in South Marine Park. While you’re at the seafront, look out for Hugo – Bessys Sweet Bakes’ Citroën HY selling coffee and cakes (which have Jade Thirlwall’s and Sam Fender’s approval). The New Sundial’s menu offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes, sharing platters and hand-stretched pizzas; for traditional pub-grub and their popular carvery, don’t miss Platform 33; and when it comes to fish and chips we swear by Colmans, which has sustainability at its heart. Colmans Seafood Temple boasts panoramic views while you eat. Ocean Road is just a stone’s throw from the seafront and it’s a foodie’s heaven – try Zeera for Indian cuisine, Pacino’s for Italian and The Marine for proper pub grub. Why not make a night of it and head a little further inland to see a show at The Customs House?
