A walk by the seaside

South Shields is a fantastic British seaside town.

With the best fish and chips you could wish for on Ocean Road, amusements at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park on the seafront and of course, glorious golden stretches of sandy beaches, there's no better place to spend a summer's day.

Take a walk along the promenade

The promenade runs the whole length of the seafront and is completely flat so it's easily accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs - perfect for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the breathtaking views out to sea.

Relax at Sandhaven Beach

Sandhaven Beach is the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by, surrounded by families and couples enjoying all the beach has to offer - including great surf. 

Get an ice cream from Minchella's and visit South Marine Park

Grab a 99 from Minchella's (which has been serving our favourite seaside treat since 1942) and make your way to the idyllic South Marine Park where you can enjoy a leisurely pedalo across the lake or unleash your inner child with a trip on the miniature steam train. 

Visit our state of the art leisure facility

Situated right next to Sea Hotel, opposite the park, is Haven Point, a state of the art leisure facility with pools, fun leisure waters and water slides, a gym, cafe and lots more.

See our stunning pieces of public art

Cross Sea Road to join back on to the promenade, and walk north to see The Sail, a cast concrete and aluminium structure based on the traditional fishing cobles that guided large vessels safely into port. Peek through the hole in the middle for views out towards the ocean.

Continue walking along Littlehaven Beach Promenade and you will see The Eye. A firm favourite, it was created by artist Stephen Broadbent and overlooks the entrance to the River Tyne. Inspired by the songs and tales of families waiting for their loved ones to return from the sea, The Eye also has a verse from the poem Blow the Wind Southerly on either side, with words from the poem scattered along the length of the promenade. 

At the north of Littlehaven Beach is the famous Conversation Piece. Created by Juan Munoz, they are affectionately known as 'the weebles'.

The figures are based on an informal social gathering, such as a card game, tea party or musical recital. They are arranged in small scattered groups, but despite being spread out, they seem to be conversing with each other.

Find out more about our Public art

Spot the iconic Herd Groyne Lighthouse

Just to the north and next to the Little Haven Hotel you will be able to spot the iconic Herd Groyne Lighthouse.

You may recognise this bright red lighthouse as it is often linked with the quintessentially British brand, Barbour. Founded in 1894, the brand's headquarters can still be found in the Borough despite its impressive growth and status as one of the most recognisable and successful fashion brands in the world. 

This is a great place to watch ships and boats make their way along the Tyne.