Business Spotlight

The lifeblood of our town — North Shields’ small businesses. Meet the makers, shopkeepers, creatives, and dreamers behind the places we love to visit. Each spotlight celebrates local pride, resilience, and the power of community.

Podcast: Two Plastic Geordies

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By Jake Rusby For friends Jake Rusby and Dave Hemming, a long-standing joke has somehow become a reality.  The two North Shields residents have launched a...

Kimberley Creative | Graphic Designer and Art Director

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Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your day-to-day life? I work from my home office in North Shields. I am a graphic...

Q&A with Emma Carlton: Sweet Patisserie’s baker to the stars

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Emma Carlton, award-winning baker and owner of Sweet Patisserie, Whitley Bay (image credit: Sarah Atkinson)

Step inside Sweet Patisserie in Whitley Bay and meet Emma Carlton, the award-winning baker whose creations have impressed everyone from Fortnum & Mason judges to global celebrities. Trained in classical French pastry and driven by a bold, health-conscious philosophy, Emma is redefining indulgence with less sugar, exceptional ingredients and uncompromising skill. From baking for Kylie Minogue at twenty minutes’ notice to hosting world-famous chocolatier Paul A. Young, this is the story of a baker whose journey is every bit as irresistible as her desserts.

234 years on Tyneside: E Turnbull & Son’s seven generation legacy continues to thrive

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E Turnbull & Son Ben Broadhead

In a year that saw Washington deliver his first State of the Union, revolution rumble through France, and Mozart debut Cosi fan Tutte, life in North Shields was also quietly changing. In 1790, local craftsman John Turnbull set up shop as a furniture maker and undertaker in the Low Town beside the Fish Quay—laying the foundations for what would become one of the town’s longest-standing family businesses. Fast forward 234 years and E. Turnbull & Son is still serving the community, now led by seventh-generation descendant Ben Broadhead. From hand-written ledgers to horse-drawn carriages, wartime tragedy to modern, personalised services, the story of Turnbull’s is woven into the history of North Shields. We sat down with Ben to explore the family legacy, the evolving craft of funeral directing, and why community remains at the heart of everything they do.

Getting to know Lewis Morrison – Head Chef at 31 The Quay

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At just 30, Lewis Morrison is redefining dining in North Shields as Executive Chef and co-owner of *31 The Quay*. Driven by a passion for fresh, seasonal food and a belief that great meals shouldn’t cost the earth, Lewis brings Michelin-level experience and homegrown heart to Smith’s Dock. From dropping out of university to cooking in Gordon Ramsay’s kitchen, his journey has been anything but ordinary. Now, he’s building a legacy—one flavour-packed plate at a time—in his beloved hometown.

Horrifyingly good business! Our Q&A with the The Artful Barber

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Step into Artful Barber in North Shields—a one-of-a-kind, 80s horror-themed barbershop where Chucky dolls, signed Scream memorabilia, and a bleached Lost Boys mullet set the scene. Founded by a lifelong horror fan and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, this inclusive, gender-neutral space is as much about identity and expression as it is about killer cuts. With wheelchair access, quiet appointments, and a warm welcome for all (including dogs!), Artful Barber is where creativity and community come together—no jump scares, just great hair.

Fancy a sweet treat? Visit bustling local coffeeshop and bakehouse R Place

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R Place

At R Place, friendship brewed the beginnings of a cosy, creative coffee haven in North Shields. Founders Ray and our very own Simmie blended their passions—coffee, food, and community—to create a warm, dog-friendly spot where everyone’s welcome, from locals to gerbils! Known for indulgent treats like their viral Baklava Cheesecake and whimsical Unicorn Hot Chocolate, they also host vibrant workshops and champion local makers. r place is more than a café—it’s a community hub where kindness, creativity, and great coffee come together.

MUST READ

Emma Carlton, award-winning baker and owner of Sweet Patisserie, Whitley Bay (image credit: Sarah Atkinson)

Q&A with Emma Carlton: Sweet Patisserie’s baker to the stars

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Step inside Sweet Patisserie in Whitley Bay and meet Emma Carlton, the award-winning baker whose creations have impressed everyone from Fortnum & Mason judges to global celebrities. Trained in classical French pastry and driven by a bold, health-conscious philosophy, Emma is redefining indulgence with less sugar, exceptional ingredients and uncompromising skill. From baking for Kylie Minogue at twenty minutes’ notice to hosting world-famous chocolatier Paul A. Young, this is the story of a baker whose journey is every bit as irresistible as her desserts.

Fun Facts: North Shields

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