South Shields FC: A Fan's Guide

South Shields FC is one of the most ambitious non-league football clubs in the country. Playing in the National League North, the Mariners have risen rapidly through the football pyramid and attract some of the largest crowds outside the Football League. Here is everything you need to know as a fan or first-time visitor.

The Club

South Shields FC was formed in 1888 and has a rich, if sometimes turbulent, history. The club was refounded in 1974 as South Shields Mariners, playing in the Northern Alliance, and has since climbed through multiple divisions to reach the National League North — just two promotions away from the Football League.

The Mariners' nickname was adopted in December 1950 when the club moved to Simonside Hall, suggested by the then secretary Coun Robert Bainbridge. It reflects the town's deep maritime heritage at the mouth of the River Tyne.

Best for: Formed in 1888 and refounded in 1974 — the Mariners now play in the National League North, two tiers below the Football League.

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The Ground: 1st Cloud Arena (Mariners Park)

The 1st Cloud Arena — known to fans as Mariners Park — is located on Shaftesbury Avenue, NE32 3UP. The ground has a capacity of around 4,000, with just under 1,100 seats across two seated stands.

The stadium has been known as the 1st Cloud Arena since a sponsorship deal in 2020. Despite the modest capacity, the atmosphere on matchdays is excellent, with a passionate and vocal home support. The ground has been steadily improved in recent years with new stands, improved facilities, and outdoor bar kiosks.

Best for: Capacity around 4,000 with 1,100 seats — Shaftesbury Avenue, NE32 3UP. Known as Mariners Park to fans.

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Getting Tickets

Tickets for South Shields FC matches are priced as follows:

• Adults: 16 pounds
• Concessions (over 65s and students): 10 pounds
• Children aged 13 to 16: 6 pounds
• Children aged 12 and under: 4 pounds

You can buy tickets online in advance through the club's website at southshieldsfc.co.uk, or pay on the day at the turnstiles. For popular fixtures, buying in advance is recommended. Season tickets are also available and offer significant savings over individual match prices.

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Matchday Information

Here is what to know before your first visit:

• Kick-off times — most Saturday fixtures kick off at 3pm. Midweek games are typically 7:45pm. Check the club's website or social media for confirmed times
• Getting there — Mariners Park is in Simonside, Jarrow, about 2 miles from South Shields town centre. There is parking around the ground, though it fills up quickly on matchdays. The nearest Metro station is Simonside, a 10-minute walk from the ground
• Food and drink — the ground has bar kiosks serving drinks and hot food. The clubhouse bar is open before and after the match
• Family-friendly — South Shields FC actively welcomes families. The low ticket prices for children and the community atmosphere make it a good option for introducing young fans to live football

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The Club's Ambitions

South Shields FC has made no secret of its ambition to reach the Football League. The club has invested in the playing squad, the coaching setup, and the ground infrastructure. Attendances regularly exceed 2,000, which is remarkable for this level of football and reflects the strength of support in the town.

The Mariners have won multiple promotions in recent years and have also enjoyed strong runs in the FA Cup and FA Trophy, bringing national attention to the club.

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Before and After the Match

Matchdays at South Shields FC are a great excuse to explore the wider area:

• Pre-match pint — The Steamboat at Mill Dam in South Shields is a multi-award-winning CAMRA Pub of the Year with seven ever-changing cask ales, a 15-minute drive or Metro ride from the ground
• Post-match food — head to Ocean Road in South Shields for some of the best curry houses in the North East, or grab fish and chips from Colmans
• Arts and culture — The Customs House at Mill Dam has a theatre, cinema, gallery, and bar, and is a short journey from the ground

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Club Contact Details

• Address: 1st Cloud Arena, Shaftesbury Avenue, Simonside, NE32 3UP
• Phone: 0191 454 7800 (weekdays 10am to 4pm)
• Email: info@southshieldsfc.co.uk
• Website: southshieldsfc.co.uk

You can also visit the club shop at the ground on matchdays and during office hours for replica shirts, scarves, and other merchandise.

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For more on sport and leisure in South Shields, see our guides to the best gyms, swimming in South Shields, and the best personal trainers in South Shields.