A guide to living in South Shields
South Shields is a large coastal town that lies approximately 12 miles east of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. It is situated in the North East at the beginning of the River Tyne. With 6 miles of coastline, it’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in Tyne and Wear.
Things to do
South Shields’ main attraction is its beautiful beaches. But also, right on your doorstep is South Shields’ promenade, where numerous festivals and events take place throughout the year. For some family fun indoors, head to Dunes for ten Pin Bowling, a Giant Soft Play Area and an Arcade.
If you fancy a dip, there’s a leisure centre, Haven Point, which boasts waterslides, swimming pool, gym and dance studios. For breath taking coastal views, head to Souter Lighthouse and The Leas. For a bit of a history, visit the reconstructed Roman Fort and excavations at World Heritage Site, Arbeia.
Getting around South Shields
South Shields is connected to Newcastle and other destinations in the region by the Tyne and Wear Metro suburban rail network. As such, it’s a popular city of choice for commuters. Metro trains from South Shields to Newcastle run every 12 minutes and take approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
If you’re heading to London, from Newcastle or Sunderland, direct trains take approximately three and a half hours. By car, the A194 (M) motorway provides a direct link between the Borough and the A1/A1 (M). South Shields is also well connected to Newcastle’s International Airport being approximately 40 minutes’ drive away.
Schools & universities
There are 21 primary schools and 4 secondary schools in South Shields. See details of South Shields schools here. South Shields is also home to South Tyneside College, one of the two leading maritime training centres in the UK. There are 3 highly esteemed universities in the area: Newcastle University, University of Northumbria at Newcastle and University of Sunderland.
Working in South Shields
Jobs in South Shields have shifted in recent years from ship building and mining to service work and light manufacturing. Find a wide range of current job vacancies in South Shields here.
Eating and drinking
South Shields is a home to a variety of cuisines such as Turkish, Chinese and Indian, as well as British such as Man vs Food Grill House. A number of curry houses and the award-winning Colman’s Fish and Chips are also located along Ocean Road. There are various cafés and pubs where you can warm up with a cup of tea or eat tasty Sunday roasts.
Shopping
South Shields has a bustling centre with a wide range of high street stores and independent shops. Waterloo Square is a relatively new development with, among others, Debenhams and Next retailers. Alternatively, go to neighbouring Newcastle to shop at the Eldon Square Shopping Centre, one of the largest city centre shopping complexes in the UK.
Culture & Nightlife
The theatre and comedy scene in Plymouth is notoriously vibrant. The Theatre Royal Plymouth is the best attended and largest regional producing theatre in the UK. There are performances and events all year round. You can also view the latest independent cinema and art exhibitions at the Plymouth Arts Centre. In the city centre and the Barbican Harbour, you’ll find it all, from traditional pubs, to contemporary stylish bars. As a university city, there are also plenty of underground clubs to please all musical tastes.
Local amenities such as hospitals, doctors, chemists and schools can be viewed for each property on our website.
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