Explore North Shields

Explore North Shields through art, culture and community. Discover the Elevation NS800 mural trail and landmark public artworks across North Shields — a self-guided walking...

Sam Fender has landed another Official Number 1, putting North Shields back in the national spotlight. Explore the hometown landmarks, lyrics and local venues that shaped his rise from Tyneside teen to chart-topping artist.

By Pauline Stewart Barry and Bernie, the dynamic duo behind Barry’s Fruit and Veg, are more than just your average grocers—they are community heroes. With...

I wonder if you know what is on the top floor of Asda in North Shields? I didn’t until recently but it’s a massive hangar of a place, home to The Blyth and Tyne Model Railway Society. It was a hive of activity on the night I visited, when I was shown around by Trevor, the secretary, and Lee, the treasurer. Trevor has a background in Education (was Vice Principle of Blyth Community College) but since he retired has had more time to devote to building train models and layout, as well as travelling to check on real-life trains and tracks etc. Trevor’s family worked on the railways and both men’s enthusiasm for model trains goes back to childhood when they were given train sets by their parents. Trevor envies Lee, however, as he gets to drive real trains in his day job for Northern Trains. What I took from my visit is the commitment to detail the members have and the authenticity of the rail layouts. All of the layouts are based on existing (or past) rail locations. As one of the members, Louis, said, “The best way is to look at the real thing in person.”  After that, as Trevor told me, it’s a case of, “Concept, make a plan, then build.”

Discover North Shields — a coastal town of heritage, heart and creativity. From the historic Fish Quay to new music, art and community projects, explore the stories shaping its future with I Love North Shields.

Step into 800 years of seafaring history with this self-guided walking tour of North Shields. Blending coastal charm, historic landmarks, and delicious local food, this 4-mile route takes you from the bustling Fish Quay to scenic parks and hidden stories. Whether you're a visitor or a curious local, this tour offers a perfect snapshot of the town’s vibrant past and present. Discover statues, shipwreck tales, and riverside views—all in just one unforgettable day.

Beneath the River Tyne lies a unique piece of history—the Tyne Cyclist and Pedestrian Tunnel. Opened in 1951 as Britain’s first purpose-built cycling tunnel, it links Howdon and Jarrow with twin passages for walkers and cyclists. With original 1950s wooden escalators and Grade II listed status, this 270-meter tunnel remains a remarkable blend of engineering heritage and modern-day utility.

From childhood wanderings in Northumberland Park to uncovering secrets buried for centuries, local historian Mike Coates traces how a small burn helped shape the origins of North Shields itself. Drawing on archaeology, medieval records and a lifetime of passion for the town, his rediscovered work reveals the lost story of the Pow Burn, Spital Dene and the remarkable St Leonard’s Leper Hospital – a place of faith, charity and significance now emerging once more from beneath the park.

his in-depth feature traces the story of Robert “Mouseman” Thompson — the Yorkshire craftsman famous for his carved mice — and uncovers his unexpected footprint in North Shields, from Mouseman furniture in St Columba’s church to the 1958 Wooden Dolly in Northumberland Square.

The eclectic heartbeat of North Shields' creative scene. In the ever-evolving landscape of independent music and art venues, Baba Yaga’s in North Shields stands out...