Super scenic South Shields is easy with the E1 from scintillating Sunderland!

South Shields, a coastal gem nestled at the mouth of the River Tyne in northeast England, is a place where sea breeze, history, and local character come together in a vibrant tapestry of northern life. Often overlooked in favour of its larger neighbours Newcastle and Sunderland, South Shields holds its own with a charm that’s both disarmingly warm and quietly proud. Whether you’re chasing windswept walks along the cliffs, craving traditional fish and chips by the sea, or delving into centuries-old history, this town surprises you at every turn. What’s more it’s easy to get there on the E1 bus which runs from Sunderland right into the heart of South Shields – a sumptuous seafront scenic sojourn through the delightful Seaburn and Whitburn and past the fun-packed fairground rides as South Shields comes into view!

One of South Shields’ most striking features is its stunning coastline. The dramatic Leas, a two-mile stretch of grassy clifftop owned by the National Trust, offers panoramic views of the North Sea and is a haven for walkers, cyclists, and anyone in need of salty air and solitude. Below, Marsden Bay cradles one of the area’s most iconic landmarks—Marsden Rock, a towering sea stack that rises majestically from the waves. Nearby, the quirky Marsden Grotto pub—literally carved into the cliffside—is one of the few cave bars in Europe, offering a surreal experience with a pint in hand as waves crash just metres away.

The town’s seafront is the heart of summer activity. Ocean Beach Pleasure Park, with its retro fairground rides and flashing arcades, keeps families entertained, while a leisurely stroll along Sandhaven Beach reveals soft golden sands perfect for picnics and paddleboarding. Even on brisk winter days, dog walkers and joggers brave the elements here, proving that the sea has an all-season pull in South Shields.

Opposite the Pleasure Beach is the splendid South Marine Park with its fantastic boating lake, picnic tables and miniature railway – look out for the swan pedalos on the lake, which are a favourite for children. This is a truly timeless setting, almost from a bygone age of simple pleasures and holidays of yesteryear – fabulous!

The Weebles statue in South Shields is a playful, eye-catching tribute to the beloved 1970s children’s toy, famous for the phrase: “Weebles wobble but they don’t fall down.” Installed near the seafront on Ocean Road, the statue features oversized versions of these rotund, egg-shaped figures, reimagined with a seaside twist. Dressed in quirky nautical outfits — from lifeguards to fish-and-chip vendors — the characters celebrate the town’s coastal charm and sense of humour.

The weebles’ wobbly, buoyant form mirrors the resilience and good spirit of the people of South Shields, making them more than just nostalgic icons. Designed to be interactive and family-friendly, they’re a favourite selfie spot and a whimsical stop for visitors exploring the area. The Weebles are part of a wider effort to inject colour and creativity into public spaces, reminding locals and tourists alike that art can be fun, inclusive, and rooted in community identity.

History pulses through the town in surprising ways. South Shields was once a crucial Roman outpost, the site of the ancient fort of Arbeia. Standing guard over the River Tyne, Arbeia supplied Roman garrisons across Hadrian’s Wall and remains one of the most important archaeological sites in the UK. Visitors can explore reconstructed Roman barracks and gatehouses, where costumed guides often bring the stories to life with theatrical flair. There’s a quiet thrill in walking where Roman centurions once marched, with the wind tugging at your coat and history whispering from every stone.

The town also boasts a rich maritime and industrial heritage. The South Shields Library, Museum and Art Gallery offers a glimpse into local life through the centuries—from coal mining to shipbuilding—and highlights the town’s literary connection to Catherine Cookson. It’s free to get in and there’s a lovely gift and coffee shop too with really friendly staff to welcome you!

There are also quirkier corners of South Shields. The Word, a futuristic library and storytelling centre, defies expectations with interactive exhibitions, a FabLab makerspace, and striking modern architecture that juxtaposes beautifully with the traditional market square nearby. For a town so steeped in history, South Shields looks forward with confidence and creativity.

Meanwhile the Town Hall (see below) is well worth checking out – it’s very majestic and was built way back in 1910!

One of Britain’s most prolific novelists, Cookson was born in Tyne Dock and her gritty, emotionally rich stories were often inspired by her own experiences of poverty and resilience in early 20th-century South Shields. Her influence lingers not just in libraries, but in the resilient spirit of the town itself.

Food in South Shields is a treat for the tastebuds and a comforting nod to its roots. No visit would be complete without sampling a classic fish and chips at Colmans, a family-run institution that’s been serving up crispy cod and hand-cut chips since 1905. If you want to venture beyond the traditional, the town’s strong Yemeni and South Asian communities have given rise to some outstanding eateries. Zeera is a local favourite for Indian cuisine, offering dishes that dance with bold flavours and warm spices, while Layla’s Restaurant serves up authentic Middle Eastern dishes with friendly, unfussy service.

South Shields also lays claim to one of the most vibrant curries in the UK—the “Parmo”, a Teesside-born, North East-adopted phenomenon of breaded chicken smothered in béchamel and cheese. It’s a post-pub staple, and you’ll find variations on many late-night menus across town.

South Shields has also produced some notable names. Ridley Scott, the Oscar-nominated director of Blade Runner, Gladiator, and Alien, spent part of his childhood in the town. You can sense some of that gritty cinematic vision in the drama of the coastline and the stoic beauty of the people. Chris Ramsey, the popular comedian and podcast host, hails from South Shields too, bringing his sharp Geordie wit to national audiences, often with affectionate nods to his hometown.

To cap off a great trip to South Shields, a trip over the Tyne to North Shields is well worth taking. The walk through the town and Ferry Approach is enthralling, with such a varied array of modern and historic architecture (see above) before the sea beckons with all its atmospheric charm! It takes only 7 minutes on the ferry and then a brisk walk, round the harbour (where there’s some great pubs and restaurants) up the cliff top to North Shields – a town full of character! It’s a detour that can’t be beaten!

The Ferry’s origins trace back to at least the 14th century, serving as a vital link before the construction of bridges. Traditionally run by rowing boats and later steam-powered vessels, the service became essential for workers and goods during the industrial boom. From North Shields, there’s the lovely 308 bus to Whitley Bay, Blyth and Newcastle just waiting to be devoured – it’s a scenic cracker full of fascination! 308 Newcastle to Blyth – Great Scenic Journeys