Souter Lighthouse
The first lighthouse in the world built for electric illumination, opened in 1871. Now managed by the National Trust with a visitor exhibition, tea room, and access to The Leas coastal walk.
Featured in These Guides
Blog posts and guides that feature Souter Lighthouse.
Marsden Bay and Marsden Grotto: The Complete Guide
From the dramatic sea stack at Marsden Rock to Europe's only cave pub, here is your complete guide to Marsden Bay, Marsden Grotto, The Leas coastal walk, and the wildlife of the South Shields coast.
Best Beaches in South Shields
From the golden sands of Sandhaven to the dramatic cliffs and seabird colonies at Marsden Bay, here is your complete guide to the beaches of South Shields.
A Weekend in South Shields
A two-day itinerary for visitors to South Shields, from the beaches and seafront to Arbeia Roman Fort, Ocean Road, and the Marsden coastal walk.
Things to Do in South Shields
From the Roman ruins at Arbeia to the beaches of Sandhaven and the theatres at The Customs House, here is your complete guide to things to do in South Shields.
Best Walks from South Shields
Four coastal and park walks from South Shields, from the clifftop path along The Leas to Marsden Bay, to a seafront stroll from Littlehaven to Tynemouth. With distances, terrain notes, and tips for every route.
Free Things to Do in South Shields
Roman ruins, golden beaches, a world-class library, free summer concerts, and more — here are the best free things to do in South Shields.
Summer Holiday Activities in South Shields
From golden beaches and a free funfair to Roman ruins and rainy-day soft play, here is your guide to keeping the family entertained in South Shields this summer.
Best Photography Spots in South Shields
From the iconic Herd Groyne Lighthouse to the seabird colonies at Marsden Rock, here are the best photography spots in South Shields.
Running and Cycling in South Shields
From the weekly parkrun along The Leas to the C2C cycle route finish line, here is your guide to running and cycling in South Shields.
More Community in South Shields
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.
The Word
National Centre for the Written Word. A striking modern library with interactive digital exhibits, a fabrication lab, performance space, events programme, and a rooftop terrace. Free admission.