Al-Azhar Mosque
One of the first purpose-built mosques in the United Kingdom, constructed in 1971 to serve the established Yemeni community. Welcomes school visits and participates in interfaith events.
About Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque on Laygate is one of the earliest purpose-built mosques in the United Kingdom, completed in 1971 to serve South Shields' long-established Yemeni community. Before it was built, worshippers used converted buildings known as zawiyas, and the mosque was funded gradually through community donations, including support from Yemeni communities elsewhere in Britain such as Sheffield and Liverpool. Its place in the town's history was cemented in 1977 when the boxer Muhammad Ali visited to worship and had his marriage blessed by the local imam. Today the mosque continues to serve the community and takes part in school visits and interfaith events.
Featured in These Guides
Blog posts and guides that feature Al-Azhar Mosque.
The Arab Quarter: Ocean Road's Multicultural Heritage
How Yemeni seafarers settled in South Shields from the 1890s, built one of the UK's first purpose-built mosques, created Ocean Road's famous food scene, and shaped the town's unique multicultural identity.
Churches in South Shields
A guide to the main churches and places of worship in South Shields, from the ancient parish church of St Hilda's to the Al-Azhar Mosque -- one of the first purpose-built mosques in Britain.
More Community in South Shields
Luna Blu NE
South Shields community interest company using creative arts therapy to support mental health and emotional wellbeing, with workshops for young people, adults, families and older people.
Arbeia Roman Fort
UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the main sea route to Hadrian's Wall. Full-scale Roman reconstructions, a museum of significant finds, and free admission from late March to September.
The Customs House
South Tyneside's premier arts venue in a listed building overlooking the River Tyne. Home to a 440-seat theatre, cinema, art gallery, restaurant, and bar.
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What's On
An Afternoon with Ann Cleeves
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM · The Word, National Centre for the Written Word, Market Place, South Shields, NE33 1JF
Shipwrecks and Smugglers Family Trail at Souter Lighthouse
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM · Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, Coast Road, Whitburn, Tyne & Wear, SR6 7NH
South Shields Market
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM · Market Place, South Shields, NE33 1JF